The new law treats abortion like any other health matter. The legislation has removed the procedure from the Crimes Act.

There is no longer any legal test for having the procedure earlier than 20 weeks, leaving a woman to self-determine whether to have the procedure, with advice from a health practitioner.

Moreover abortion services will now also be able to be provided by:

o   Any doctor

o   Nurse practitioners  

o   Midwives 

This reform is unlikely to change the number of abortions; presently around 13,000 a year, but it does provide a better framework for the provision of abortion services.  It will also mean more equitable access to abortion services and earlier abortions.    

Most Nurses Society members support the Bill; a poll of members conducted after it passed its first reading found 69% support versus 24% opposed, with 7% unsure.   

The new law treats abortion like any other health matter. The legislation has removed the procedure from the Crimes Act.

There is no longer any legal test for having the procedure earlier than 20 weeks, leaving a woman to self-determine whether to have the procedure, with advice from a health practitioner.

Moreover abortion services will now also be able to be provided by:

o   Any doctor

o   Nurse practitioners  

o   Midwives 

This reform is unlikely to change the number of abortions; presently around 13,000 a year, but it does provide a better framework for the provision of abortion services.  It will also mean more equitable access to abortion services and earlier abortions.    

Most Nurses Society members support the Bill; a poll of members conducted after it passed its first reading found 69% support versus 24% opposed, with 7% unsure.