Country or Region | |
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Australia |
Law Varies By Jurisdiction
Read more On requestVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Capital Territory (Australia) |
Gestational limit: No limit specified
Read more Gestational limit
The Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. The ACT government health webpage specifies that abortion can be accessed in the ACT up to 16 weeks gestation through a GP (medical abortions up to 8 weeks gestation only). In specific cases, the Canberra Hospital can provide an abortion at a later gestation. Related documents: |
New South Wales (Australia) |
Gestational limit: 22
Read more On requestYes Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) Additional notesYou do not need a referral to access termination of pregnancy services in New South Wales. |
Northern Territory (Australia) |
Not Specified
Read more On requestNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
Queensland (Australia) |
Gestational limit: 22
Read more Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
South Australia (Australia) |
Gestational limit: 22 weeks 6 days
Read more On requestYes Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Tasmania (Australia) |
Gestational limit: 16
Read more On requestYes Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Victoria (Australia) |
Gestational limit: 24
Read more WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Western Australia (Australia) |
No
Read more On requestNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Country | Economic or social reasons |
Foetal impairment |
Rape |
Incest |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the woman |
Mental health |
Physical health |
Health |
Life |
Other |
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Australia |
Economic or social reasonsVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Foetal impairmentVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
RapeVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
IncestVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Mental healthVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Physical healthVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
HealthVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
LifeVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Other
|
Capital Territory (Australia) |
Economic or social reasonsNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
Foetal impairmentNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
RapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
IncestNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNot applicable Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
Mental healthNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
Physical healthNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
HealthNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
LifeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesThe Health Act 1993 refers only to who may perform an abortion and where it may take place. It does not restrict abortion by grounds or gestational limit. Related documents: |
Other
|
New South Wales (Australia) |
Economic or social reasonsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
Foetal impairmentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
RapeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
IncestNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents: |
Mental healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
Physical healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
HealthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) Additional notesIn an emergency, a medical practitioner, whether or not a specialist medical practitioner, may perform a termination on a person who is more than 22 weeks pregnant if the medical practitioner considers it necessary to perform the termination to save the person’s life. |
OtherAccording to the Reproductive Healthcare Reform Act, after 22 weeks, in considering whether a termination should be performed on a person a specialist medical practitioner must consider— (a) all relevant medical circumstances, and (b) the person’s current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances, and (c) the professional standards and guidelines that apply to the specialist medical practitioner in relation to the performance of the termination. (4) Without limiting subsection (3), the specialist medical practitioner may ask for advice about the proposed termination from a multi-disciplinary team or hospital advisory committee. Related documents: |
Northern Territory (Australia) |
Economic or social reasonsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
Foetal impairmentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
RapeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
IncestNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
Mental healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
Physical healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
HealthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesA suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. Related documents: |
Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Other |
Queensland (Australia) |
Economic or social reasonsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
Foetal impairmentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
RapeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
IncestNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. |
Mental healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
Physical healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
HealthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
OtherIn an emergency, a medical practitioner may perform a termination in case of a multiple pregnancy if they consider it is necessary to save the life of another fetus. |
South Australia (Australia) |
Economic or social reasonsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
Foetal impairmentYes Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
RapeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
IncestNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. |
Mental healthYes Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Physical healthYes Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
HealthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
LifeYes Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
OtherOne of the mandatory considerations for medical practitioners performing terminations after 22 weeks and 6 days includes whether it is essential to perform a termination of an affected foetus in a multiple pregnancy at a gestation that does not risk severe prematurity and its attendant consequences for the surviving foetus. Related documents: |
Tasmania (Australia) |
Economic or social reasonsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesIn assessing the risk of injury to physical and mental health of continuing the pregnancy, the medical practitioner must have regard to the woman’s physical, psychological, economic and social circumstances. Related documents: |
Foetal impairmentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
RapeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
IncestNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents: |
Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) Additional notesIn assessing the risk of injury to physical and mental health of continuing the pregnancy, the medical practitioner must have regard to the woman’s physical, psychological, economic and social circumstances. |
Physical healthYes Related documents:Gestational limit
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) Additional notesIn assessing the risk of injury to physical and mental health of continuing the pregnancy, the medical practitioner must have regard to the woman’s physical, psychological, economic and social circumstances. |
HealthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
LifeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Other |
Victoria (Australia) |
Economic or social reasonsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesTerminations may be performed by a medical practitioner after 24 weeks only if the medical practitioner reasonably believes an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances and has consulted at least one other medical practitioner who also believes an abortion is appropriate. In considering whether an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances, the practitioners must have regard to all relevant medical circumstances and the women's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances. Related documents: |
Foetal impairmentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
RapeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
IncestNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents: |
Mental healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesTerminations may be performed by a medical practitioner after 24 weeks only if the medical practitioner reasonably believes an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances and has consulted at least one other medical practitioner who also believes an abortion is appropriate. In considering whether an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances, the practitioners must have regard to all relevant medical circumstances and the women's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances. Related documents: |
Physical healthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesTerminations may be performed by a medical practitioner after 24 weeks only if the medical practitioner reasonably believes an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances and has consulted at least one other medical practitioner who also believes an abortion is appropriate. In considering whether an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances, the practitioners must have regard to all relevant medical circumstances and the women's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances. Related documents: |
HealthNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Additional notesTerminations may be performed by a medical practitioner after 24 weeks only if the medical practitioner reasonably believes an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances and has consulted at least one other medical practitioner who also believes an abortion is appropriate. In considering whether an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances, the practitioners must have regard to all relevant medical circumstances and the women's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances. Related documents: |
LifeNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
OtherCircumstances in which abortion is considered to be appropriate. Related documents:Additional notesTerminations may be performed by a medical practitioner after 24 weeks only if the medical practitioner reasonably believes an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances and has consulted at least one other medical practitioner who also believes an abortion is appropriate. In considering whether an abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances, the practitioners must have regard to all relevant medical circumstances and the women's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances. |
Western Australia (Australia) |
Economic or social reasonsYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Foetal impairmentYes Gestational limit
Abortion at gestational ages of more than 20 weeks is permissible if two medical practitioners who are members of a panel of at least six medical practitioners appointed by the Minister have agreed that the mother, or the unborn child, has a severe medical condition that, in the clinical judgment of those two medical practitioners, justifies the procedure. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
RapeNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
IncestNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNo |
Mental healthYes Gestational limit
Abortion at gestational ages of more than 20 weeks is permissible if two medical practitioners who are members of a panel of at least six medical practitioners appointed by the Minister have agreed that the mother, or the unborn child, has a severe medical condition that, in the clinical judgment of those two medical practitioners, justifies the procedure. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Physical healthYes Gestational limit
Abortion at gestational ages of more than 20 weeks is permissible if two medical practitioners who are members of a panel of at least six medical practitioners appointed by the Minister have agreed that the mother, or the unborn child, has a severe medical condition that, in the clinical judgment of those two medical practitioners, justifies the procedure. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) Laws or policies that impose time limits on the length of pregnancy may have negative consequences for women, including forcing them to seek clandestine abortions and suffer social inequities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.7. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
HealthNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Health grounds shall reflect WHO’s definitions of health, which entails a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Abortion Care Guideline § 2.2.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 16) |
LifeNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Grounds-based approaches to restricting access to abortion should be revised in favour of making abortion available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds. The guideline recommends abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
OtherThe woman will suffer serious personal, family or social consequences if the pregnancy is carried to term Additional notesNo gestational limit specified. "Abortion at gestational ages of more than 20 weeks is permissible if two medical practitioners who are members of a panel of at least six medical practitioners appointed by the Minister have agreed that the mother, or the unborn child, has a severe medical condition that, in the clinical judgment of those two medical practitioners, justifies the procedure." |
Country | Authorization of health professional(s) |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities only |
Judicial authorization for minors |
Judicial authorization in cases of rape |
Police report required in case of rape |
Parental consent required for minors |
Spousal consent |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat required |
Compulsory counselling |
Compulsory waiting period |
Mandatory HIV screening test |
Other mandatory STI screening tests |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortion |
Restrictions on information provided to the public |
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetus |
Other |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Australia |
Authorization of health professional(s)Varies by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Judicial authorization for minorsVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapeVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Police report required in case of rapeVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Parental consent required for minorsVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Spousal consentVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Compulsory counsellingVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Compulsory waiting periodVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Mandatory HIV screening testVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Other mandatory STI screening testsVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Restrictions on information provided to the publicVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Other |
Capital Territory (Australia) |
Authorization of health professional(s)Not specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) Additional notesMedical abortions are not required to occur at an approved medical facility. They can be provided by general practitioners, telehealth providers and 'Marie Stopes.' However, surgical abortions need to be carried out in approved medical facility. |
Judicial authorization for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Police report required in case of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Parental consent required for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesThe Standard Operating Procedure for ACT Government Health requires informed consent in non-emergency medical treatments. The Age of Maturity Act 1974 states that a person becomes an adult at the age of 18. A person can only consent to medical treatment if they are an adult, or if they are mature enough to clearly understand the nature of the treatment and its consequences. Otherwise, a parent or legal guardian needs to provide consent on their behalf. Related documents: |
Spousal consentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) |
Compulsory counsellingNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) |
Compulsory waiting periodNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) |
Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Other mandatory STI screening testsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) |
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) |
No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Other |
New South Wales (Australia) |
Authorization of health professional(s)No WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesAuthorisation required only after 22 weeks. |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) Additional notesAfter 22 weeks a termination must be performed at a hospital controlled by a statutory health organisation, within the meaning of the Health Services Act 1997, or (ii) an approved health facility. |
Judicial authorization for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapenot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Police report required in case of rapenot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Parental consent required for minorsYes Related documents:Can another adult consent in place of a parent?Yes As per the NSW guidelines, A child aged 14 years and above may consent to their own treatment provided they adequately understand and appreciate the nature and consequences of the operation procedure or treatment. However, where the child is 14 or 15 years of age, it is prudent for practitioners or hospitals to also obtain the consent of the parent or guardian, unless the patient objects. Generally, the age at which a young person is sufficiently mature to consent independently to medical treatment depends not only on their age but also on the seriousness of the treatment in question relative to their level of maturity. The health practitioner must decide on a case-by- case basis whether the young person has sufficient understanding and intelligence to enable him or her to fully understand what is proposed. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) |
Compulsory waiting periodNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) |
Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Other mandatory STI screening testsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) |
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) |
No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Other |
Northern Territory (Australia) |
Authorization of health professional(s)Yes Related documents:Number and cadre of health-care professional authorizations required
A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances, having regard to: (a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) professional standards and guidelines. A suitably qualified medical practitioner may perform a termination on a woman who is more than 14 weeks pregnant, but not more than 23 weeks pregnant, if: (a) the medical practitioner has consulted with at least one other suitably qualified medical practitioner who has assessed the woman; and (b) each medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate in all the circumstances having regard to each of the matters mentioned above. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) |
Judicial authorization for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNOT APPLICABLE WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Police report required in case of rapeNOT APPLICABLE WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Parental consent required for minorsYes Can another adult consent in place of a parent?Yes Person with parental authority Age where consent not needed
The Clinical guidelines assume that adolescents have an evolving capacity to consent. As per the guidelines, a young woman under the age of 14 years should not be presumed to have capacity to give consent to medical treatment. In the majority of cases, a young woman under the age of 14 years would require a parent or person having parental authority to provide consent to treatment. A young woman under the age of 16 years may have capacity to give consent to medical treatment if it can be demonstrated that she meets the criteria of Gillick competence. A woman over the age of 16 years might be considered to have capacity to give consent to medical treatment id the medical practitioner determines so. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesThe Clinical guidelines assume that adolescents have an evolving capacity to consent. As per the guidelines, a young woman under the age of 14 years should not be presumed to have capacity to give consent to medical treatment. In the majority of cases, a young woman under the age of 14 years would require a parent or person having parental authority to provide consent to treatment. A young woman under the age of 16 years may have capacity to give consent to medical treatment if it can be demonstrated that she meets the criteria of Gillick competence. A woman over the age of 16 years might be considered to have capacity to give consent to medical treatment id the medical practitioner determines so. |
Spousal consentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) |
Compulsory counsellingNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) |
Compulsory waiting periodNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) |
Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Other mandatory STI screening testsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) |
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) |
No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Other |
Queensland (Australia) |
Authorization of health professional(s)Yes Number and cadre of health-care professional authorizations required
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesIn an emergency, where termination is necessary to save the woman’s life or the life of (in a multiple pregnancy) another fetus, termination can be performed without consulting another medical practitioner and without considering all relevant circumstances. |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) |
Judicial authorization for minorsNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Police report required in case of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Parental consent required for minorsNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Spousal consentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) |
Compulsory counsellingNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) |
Compulsory waiting periodNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) |
Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Other mandatory STI screening testsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) |
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) |
No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
OtherAfter 22 weeks the medical practitioner, in considering whether a termination should be performed on a woman, must consider— "(a) all relevant medical circumstances; and (b) the woman’s current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances; and (c) the professional standards and guidelines that apply to the medical practitioner in relation to the performance of the termination." Related documents: |
South Australia (Australia) |
Authorization of health professional(s)No WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesAuthorizations are not required before 22 weeks and 6 days. After 22 weeks and 6 days, two authorizations are required when practitioner considers it is necessary to perform the termination to save the woman’s life or the life of another unborn child. However, a termination of pregnancy may be performed in emergency cases without prior authorization of a second provider. Related documents: |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) Additional notesAccess to termination of pregnancy services may be facilitated onsite, via telehealth, or by referral to an alternative service provider (medical practitioner or health service known to provide the service), relevant to the gestation of pregnancy.
After 22 weeks and 6 days, a termination must be performed at a prescribed hospital. |
Judicial authorization for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Police report required in case of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Parental consent required for minorsNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesA person of or over 16 years of age may make decisions about his or her own medical treatment as validly and effectively as an adult. If the patient is a child (under 16 years of age) a parent or guardian of the child can consent to what medical treatment should be administered. The child can provide his or her own consent if the medical practitioner is of the opinion that the child understands the nature, consequences and risks of the proposed treatment. This opinion must be supported by the written opinion of at least one other medical practitioner who has personally examined the child. |
Spousal consentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) |
Compulsory counsellingNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) Additional notesBefore performing a termination on a person, a registered health practitioner must provide all necessary information to the person about access to counselling, including publicly-funded counselling. Related documents: |
Compulsory waiting periodNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) |
Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Other mandatory STI screening testsNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) Additional notesScreening for sexually transmitted diseases (chlamydia and gonorrhoea) is recommended. |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) Additional notesThis prohibition does not apply to the performance of a termination if the registered health practitioner is satisfied that there is a substantial risk that the person born after the pregnancy (but for the termination) would suffer a sex-linked medical condition that would result in serious disability to that person. |
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) |
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Other |
Tasmania (Australia) |
Authorization of health professional(s)No Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesAn additional authorization is only required after 16 weeks. In such cases, at least one of the medical practitioners must be a medical practitioner who specialises in obstetrics or gynaecology . |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) |
Judicial authorization for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Police report required in case of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Parental consent required for minorsNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesThe Reproductive Health (Access to Terminations) Act 2013, does not put any age requirement on a woman regarding consent to access abortions. The legislation defines a woman as 'a female person of any age.' It makes no mention of the need for parental or judicial consent. |
Spousal consentNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesThe pregnancy of a woman who is not more than 16 weeks pregnant may be terminated by a medical practitioner with the woman's consent. |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) |
Compulsory waiting periodNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) |
Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Other mandatory STI screening testsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) |
No data
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) |
No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Other |
Victoria (Australia) |
Authorization of health professional(s)Yes Related documents:Number and cadre of health-care professional authorizations required
A registered medical practitioner may perform an abortion on a woman who is more than 24 weeks pregnant only if the medical practitioner has consulted at least one other registered medical practitioner who also reasonably believes that the abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) Additional notesA registered medical practitioner may perform an abortion on a woman who is more than 24 weeks pregnant only if the medical practitioner has consulted at least one other registered medical practitioner who also reasonably believes that the abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances. |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) |
Judicial authorization for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNOT APPLICABLE WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Police report required in case of rapeNOT APPLICABLE WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Parental consent required for minorsNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Spousal consentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) |
Compulsory counsellingNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) |
Compulsory waiting periodNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) |
Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Other mandatory STI screening testsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) |
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) |
No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
Other |
Western Australia (Australia) |
Authorization of health professional(s)Yes Number and cadre of health-care professional authorizations required
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. To establish an enabling environment, there is a need for abortion care to be integrated into the health system across all levels (including primary, secondary and tertiary) – and supported in the community – to allow for expansion of health worker roles, including self-management approaches. To ensure both access to abortion and achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), abortion must be centred within primary health care (PHC), which itself is fully integrated within the health system, facilitating referral pathways for higher-level care when needed. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 52) |
Judicial authorization for minorsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Police report required in case of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There shall be no procedural requirements to “prove” or “establish” satisfaction of grounds, such as requiring judicial orders or police reports in cases of rape or sexual assault (for sources to support this information). These restrictions subject the individual to unnecessary trauma, may put them at increased risk from the perpetrator, and may cause women to resort to unsafe abortion. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 64) |
Parental consent required for minorsNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Spousal consentNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While parental or partner involvement in abortion decision-making can support and assist women, girls or other pregnant persons, this must be based on the values and preferences of the person availing of abortion and not imposed by third-party authorization requirements. Third-party authorization requirements are incompatible with international human rights law, which provides that States may not restrict women’s access to health services on the ground that they do not have the authorization of husbands, partners, parents or health authorities, because they are unmarried, or because they are women. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 81) |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The right to refuse information, including the right to refuse viewing ultrasound images, must be respected. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against the use of ultrasound scanning as a prerequisite for providing abortion services for both medical and surgical abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.5. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 85) |
Compulsory counsellingNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. While counselling should be made available and accessible, it should always be voluntary for women to choose whether or not they want to receive it. The right to refuse counselling when offered must be respected. Where provided, counselling must be available to individuals in a way that respects privacy and confidentiality. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 77) |
Compulsory waiting periodNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mandatory waiting periods delay access to abortion, sometimes to the extent that women’s access to abortion or choice of abortion method is restricted. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against mandatory waiting periods for abortion. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 79) |
Mandatory HIV screening testNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Other mandatory STI screening testsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers – as well as barriers in practice – that hinder access to and timely provision of quality abortion care should be removed. Abortion Care Guideline § Box 2.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 59) |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement. Source document: Preventing Gender-Biased Sex Selection (page 17) |
No data
Restrictions on information provided to the publicNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Dissemination of misinformation, withholding of information and censorship should be prohibited. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 74) |
No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines § 4.2.1.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) |
OtherIn the case of a dependent minor, the Health Act requires that a custodial parent has been informed that the performance of an abortion is being considered and has been given the opportunity to participate in a counselling process and in consultations between the woman and her medical practitioner as to whether the abortion is to be performed. Additional notesThe role of the parent can be performed by a guardian. A woman is a dependent minor if she has not reached the age of 16 years and is being supported by a custodial parent or parents.
The source Termination of pregnancy: Information and legal obligations for medical practitioners states: [t]he legislation does not define what is meant by supported. However, it would be reasonable to interpret it as referring primarily to financial support. Therefore, a child living away from home who was not financially dependent on the parents would not be a dependent minor. Additional evidence may be required in these cases, such as Social Security details. In these cases, the young woman is considered in the same way any woman over 16 years of age.
The source further specifies that a woman who is a dependent minor may apply to the Children’s Court for an order that a person specified in the application, being a custodial parent of the woman, should not be given the information and opportunity referred to in subsection and the court may, on being satisfied that the application should be granted, make an order in those terms. |
Country | National guidelines for induced abortion |
Methods allowed |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol) |
Country recognized approval (misoprostol) |
Where can abortion services be provided |
National guidelines for post-abortion care |
Where can post abortion care services be provided |
Contraception included in post-abortion care |
Insurance to offset end user costs |
Who can provide abortion services |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion services |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Australia |
National guidelines for induced abortionWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesIn addition to the New South Wales official guidelines for professionals on the framework for termination of pregnancy there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationIn addition to the New South Wales official guidelines for professionals on the framework for termination of pregnancy there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Dilatation and evacuationIn addition to the New South Wales official guidelines for professionals on the framework for termination of pregnancy there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Combination mifepristone-misoprostolIn addition to the New South Wales official guidelines for professionals on the framework for termination of pregnancy there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Misoprostol onlyIn addition to the New South Wales official guidelines for professionals on the framework for termination of pregnancy there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Other (where provided)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Pharmacy selling or distributionYes, with prescription only WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)Varies by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Where can abortion services be providedVaries by Jurisdiction Primary health-care centresVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Specialized abortion care public facilitiesVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Private health-care centres or clinicsVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. NGO health-care centres or clinicsVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
National guidelines for post-abortion careWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesIn addition to the New South Wales official guidelines for professionals on the framework for termination of pregnancy there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Specialized abortion care public facilitiesVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Private health-care centres or clinicsVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. NGO health-care centres or clinicsVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) Additional notesIn addition to the New South Wales official guidelines for professionals on the framework for termination of pregnancy there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Insurance to offset end user costsVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Who can provide abortion servicesVaries by Jurisdiction NurseVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Midwife/nurse-midwifeVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Doctor (specialty not specified)Varies by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Minimum number of bedsVaries by jurisdiction Varies by Jurisdiction Access to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
Capital Territory (Australia) |
National guidelines for induced abortionThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: Related documents:
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
Dilatation and evacuationThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
Combination mifepristone-misoprostolThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
Misoprostol onlyThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
Other (where provided)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Related documents:Pharmacy selling or distributionYes, with prescription only A trained pharmacist can dispense the medical abortion medication. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
No data
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)No data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Where can abortion services be providedRelated documents:Primary health-care centresNot specified Medical abortions are not required to occur at an approved medical facility. However, surgical abortions need to be carried out in approved medical facility. Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Medical abortions are not required to occur at an approved medical facility. However, surgical abortions need to be carried out in approved medical facility. Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Medical abortions are not required to occur at an approved medical facility. However, surgical abortions need to be carried out in approved medical facility. Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified Medical abortions are not required to occur at an approved medical facility. However, surgical abortions need to be carried out in approved medical facility. NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified Medical abortions are not required to occur at an approved medical facility. However, surgical abortions need to be carried out in approved medical facility. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
National guidelines for post-abortion careThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: Related documents:
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) Additional notesThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
No data
Insurance to offset end user costsNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) |
Who can provide abortion servicesNurseNo Midwife/nurse-midwifeNo Doctor (specialty not specified)Yes Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Other (if applicable)Medical abortions can be provided by general practitioners, telehealth providers and 'Marie Stopes.' A trained pharmacist can dispense the medical abortion medications. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNot specified Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)Medical abortions are not required to occur at an approved medical facility. However, surgical abortions need to be carried out in approved medical facility. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
New South Wales (Australia) |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationDilatation and evacuationCombination mifepristone-misoprostolMisoprostol onlyOther (where provided)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Pharmacy selling or distributionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. There is no information specified as to where the medications must be dispensed, but a prescription is required. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
No data
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)No data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Where can abortion services be providedRelated documents:Primary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified Other (if applicable)Termination of pregnancy after 22 weeks can be performed at a hospital controlled by a local health district or statutory health corporation or another facility approved by the Health Secretary. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesAfter 22 weeks a termination must be performed at a hospital controlled by a statutory health organisation, within the meaning of the Health Services Act 1997, or (ii) an approved health facility. |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) Additional notesAccording to the Reproductive Health Reform Act, revised guidelines may be developed subsequent to the enacting of the Bill by the Ministry of Health. In addition to these, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
No data
Insurance to offset end user costsNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) Additional notesThere is currently very limited access to abortion services through public sector funded services, except in cases of severe maternal health conditions, or fetal anomaly. Related documents: |
Who can provide abortion servicesRelated documents:NurseNot specified Midwife/nurse-midwifeNot specified Doctor (specialty not specified)Not specified Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Other (if applicable)Medical practitioner (prior to 22 weeks) Specialist medical practitioner (after 22 weeks) WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNot specified Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)After 22 weeks a termination must be performed at a hospital controlled by a statutory health organisation, within the meaning of the Health Services Act 1997, or (ii) an approved health facility. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
Northern Territory (Australia) |
National guidelines for induced abortionYes, guidelines issued by the government WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationNot specified Dilatation and evacuationNot specified Combination mifepristone-misoprostolYes (9 WEEKS) Misoprostol onlyNot specified Other (where provided)Surgical termination (14 WEEKS) WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Pharmacy selling or distributionNo Mifepristone is restricted to Obstetrics & Gynaecology specialists for the medical termination of pregnancy beyond the first trimester up to 22 completed weeks gestation and beyond 22 weeks for foetal death in utero only. Prescribers and dispensing pharmacists must be registered and certified with MS Health via: https://www.ms2step.com.au/ WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Related documents: |
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)Yes, indications not specified Related documents:Misoprostol allowed to be sold or distributed by pharmacies or drug storesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Where can abortion services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified Other (if applicable)Hospitals WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
National guidelines for post-abortion careYes, guidelines issued by the government WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) |
Insurance to offset end user costsYes Related documents:Induced abortion for all womenYes The Department of Health continues to fund NT Health Services for the provision of termination of pregnancy services to public patients. A woman’s capacity to pay Medicare or PBS charges must not be a barrier to access. The Department of Health has made changes to the Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS) guidelines to support access to early medical terminations of pregnancy. When a woman requires an early medical termination of pregnancy and does not have access to safe accommodation within two hours driving time of a hospital emergency service she will be eligible for financial assistance through PATS. Assistance provided will include transport and accommodation costs and automatic eligibility for an escort. The woman will be covered under the PATS program until she is discharged by a suitably qualified medical practitioner. Any further follow up appointments required for this procedure will also be covered by PATS. Other PATS eligibility criteria continue to apply. Abortion complicationsYes Private health coverageNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) |
Who can provide abortion servicesNurseNot specified Midwife/nurse-midwifeNot specified Doctor (specialty not specified)Not specified Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Other (if applicable)Medical practitioner Health professional under supervision A suitably qualified medical practitioner may direct an authorised ATSI health practitioner, authorised midwife, authorised nurse or authorised pharmacist to assist in the performance of a termination on a woman who is not more than 14 weeks pregnant, if the medical practitioner considers the termination is appropriate. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNot specified Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)Early medical termination can be provided by a suitably qualified medical practitioner: who has appropriate areas for privacy and confidentiality (not applicable to Telehealth Services), certain protocols in place, suitable qualified personnel, links to support services, access to local pathology services available for the hours the service is provided, access to a pharmacist prepared to stock and supply MS-2Step. To provide surgical Termination of Pregnancy up to 14 weeks’, providers must have a range of health care facilities and support services including on site operating room(s) and/or day surgery suite facilities, appropriate areas for counselling that ensure the woman’s privacy and confidentiality, emergency resuscitation equipment available as per accreditation requirements, access to ultrasound services for pregnancies greater than 12 weeks gestation, emergency transfusion supplies on site, and have appropriate protocols in place. More details are provided in the guidelines. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
Queensland (Australia) |
National guidelines for induced abortionYes, guidelines issued by the government Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesIn addition to the Queensland Maternal and Neonatal Clinical Guideline: Termination of Pregnancy, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationNot specified In addition to the Queensland Maternal and Neonatal Clinical Guideline: Termination of Pregnancy, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Dilatation and evacuationNot specified In addition to the Queensland Maternal and Neonatal Clinical Guideline: Termination of Pregnancy, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Combination mifepristone-misoprostolYes In addition to the Queensland Maternal and Neonatal Clinical Guideline: Termination of Pregnancy, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Misoprostol onlyYes (Gestations less than or equal to 63 DAYS In the case of outpatients - 9 WEEKS) In addition to the Queensland Maternal and Neonatal Clinical Guideline: Termination of Pregnancy, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Other (where provided)Surgical curettage Feticide Selective reduction or selective feticide Other 1: Surgical curettage is generally suitable up to 12 weeks gestation; between 12–16 weeks (or greater) gestation, performed only by an experienced practitioner.
No gestational limit is provided for feticide or selective reduction. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Pharmacy selling or distributionYes, with prescription only WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)Yes, for gynaecological indications Related documents:Misoprostol allowed to be sold or distributed by pharmacies or drug storesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. No information is specified as to where misoprostol must be dispensed or whether a prescription is needed. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Where can abortion services be providedRelated documents:Primary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
National guidelines for post-abortion careYes, guidelines issued by the government Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesIn addition to the Queensland Maternal and Neonatal Clinical Guideline: Termination of Pregnancy, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careYes Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) Additional notesIn addition to the Queensland Maternal and Neonatal Clinical Guideline: Termination of Pregnancy, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
No data
Insurance to offset end user costsNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) |
Who can provide abortion servicesNurseYes Midwife/nurse-midwifeYes Doctor (specialty not specified)Not specified Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNYes Queensland Health approves the use of MS-2 Step for specialist obstetric and gynaecology staff who are registered with the MS-2 Step Prescribing Program for use in the termination of an intra-uterine pregnancy as per the Queensland Maternity and Neonatal Clinical Guideline for termination of pregnancy. Other (if applicable)Pharmacist; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners; Other registered health practitioner prescribed by regulation medical practitioner. Queensland Health approves the use of MS-2 Step for specialist obstetric and gynaecology staff who are registered with the MS-2 Step Prescribing Program for use in the termination of an intra-uterine pregnancy as per the Queensland Maternity and Neonatal Clinical Guideline for termination of pregnancy. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityYes Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
South Australia (Australia) |
National guidelines for induced abortionYes, guidelines issued by the government WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesIn addition to the South Australia Department of Health issued guidelines for professionals on delivery of abortion services there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationYes (12 WEEKS) In addition to the South Australia Department of Health issued guidelines for professionals on delivery of abortion services there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Dilatation and evacuationNot specified In addition to the South Australia Department of Health issued guidelines for professionals on delivery of abortion services there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Combination mifepristone-misoprostolYes (63 DAYS) Mifepristone is for restricted use for the preparation for the action of registered prostaglandin analogues that are indicated for the termination of pregnancy for medical reasons beyond the first trimester prescribed by Obstetrics and Gynaecology or at an approved pregnancy termination centre, treated by a prescriber who is registered with the MS 2 Step Prescribing Program (non-PBS). Mifepristone (&) Misoprostol is also for restricted use for the termination of an intra-uterine pregnancy up to 63 days gestation, treated by a prescriber who is registered with the MS 2 Step Prescribing Program.
In addition to the South Australia Department of Health issued guidelines for professionals on delivery of abortion services there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Misoprostol onlyYes In addition to the South Australia Department of Health issued guidelines for professionals on delivery of abortion services there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Other (where provided)For retained products of conception, medical management with further misoprostol or surgical management with dilatation and curettage is recommended. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Pharmacy selling or distributionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. There is no information specified as to where mifepristone is to be dispensed, but a prescription is required. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)Yes, for gynaecological indications Related documents:Misoprostol allowed to be sold or distributed by pharmacies or drug storesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. There is no information specified as to where misoprostol is to be dispensed, but a prescription is required. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Additional notesMisoprostol is not included in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). |
Where can abortion services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesYes
Specialized abortion care public facilitiesYes
Private health-care centres or clinicsYes
NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified Other (if applicable)Access to termination of pregnancy services may be facilitated onsite, via telehealth, or by referral to an alternative service provider (medical practitioner or health service known to provide the service), relevant to the gestation of pregnancy. Terminations performed after 22 weeks and 6 days must performed at a prescribed hospital, except in emergency cases.
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
National guidelines for post-abortion careYes, guidelines issued by the government WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesIn addition to the South Australia Department of Health issued guidelines for professionals on delivery of abortion services there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careYes Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) Additional notesIn addition to the South Australia department of health issued guidelines for professionals on delivery of abortion services there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Insurance to offset end user costsYes Related documents:Induced abortion for all womenYes Most terminations of pregnancy that occur in South Australia are provided through the public health system. While women who have a surgical termination of pregnancy in a public clinic will not be charged, women who have a medical termination in a public clinic may be required to pay a gap for the medication.
Misoprostol is not included in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Induced abortion for poor women onlyNo Abortion complicationsNot specified Private health coverageNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) |
Who can provide abortion servicesNurseNot specified Midwife/nurse-midwifeNot specified Doctor (specialty not specified)Not specified Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Other (if applicable)Registered health practitioner, which includes medical practitioner, or any other person registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law to practise in a health profession, other than as a student. Medical practitioners wishing to prescribe mifepristone and misoprostol must be registered with and certified by MS Health via the secure healthcare professional website https://www.ms2step.com.au/ (for more information see Standards for the Management of Termination of Pregnancy in SA available at www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/perinatal). Registered medical practitioners with a Fellowship of the Royal Australian New Zealand College Obstetricians Gynaecologists will not have to complete the training but are still required to register with MS Health as part of the medical termination of pregnancy Risk Management Plan.
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityYes Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNYes Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)Basic or essential equipment and/or supplies. South Australia Health services providing termination of pregnancy must have access to ultrasound for the purposes of accurately dating the pregnancy where clinically appropriate. Where there are service gaps in regional areas, consideration must be given to service agreements with local private providers. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
Tasmania (Australia) |
National guidelines for induced abortionWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Dilatation and evacuationThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Combination mifepristone-misoprostolThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Misoprostol onlyThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Other (where provided)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Related documents:Pharmacy selling or distributionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. While it is not specified where mifepristone must be dispensed, a prescription is required. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
No data
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)No data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Where can abortion services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified Other (if applicable)In a clinic, Family Planning Tasmania, Marie Stopes Australia WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesThere is no requirement in the legislation around where an abortion (or post-abortion care) should be performed. However, the Health Service Establishments Act 2006 and the Health Service Establishments Regulations 2011 establish that all private health establishments must be licensed and detail the regulations and requirements for licensing. Private termination providers must apply to be licensed as day procedure centre or at a higher level. The Tasmanian Department of Health and Human Services information page for women states that three private facilities are licensed to provide abortions. Related documents: |
National guidelines for post-abortion careWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) Additional notesThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Insurance to offset end user costsNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) |
Who can provide abortion servicesNurseNot specified Midwife/nurse-midwifeNot specified Doctor (specialty not specified)Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNYes Other (if applicable)Medical practitioner WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNot specified Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
Victoria (Australia) |
National guidelines for induced abortionWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Dilatation and evacuationThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Combination mifepristone-misoprostolThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Misoprostol onlyThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Other (where provided)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Pharmacy selling or distributionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
No data
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)No data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Where can abortion services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified The Abortion Law Reform Act 2008 (1) does not prescribe where an abortion must take place. It is a legal requirement to register a day procedure centre or private hospital under Victoria law. The Victoria Department of Health is responsible for the regulation of private hospitals and day procedure centres under the Health Services Act 1988 (2) and the Health Services (Private Hospitals and Day Procedure Centres) Regulations 2013 (3). The regulations do not specifically refer to registration for the performance of pregnancy terminations.
Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified The Abortion Law Reform Act 2008 (1) does not prescribe where an abortion must take place. It is a legal requirement to register a day procedure centre or private hospital under Victoria law. The Victoria Department of Health is responsible for the regulation of private hospitals and day procedure centres under the Health Services Act 1988 (2) and the Health Services (Private Hospitals and Day Procedure Centres) Regulations 2013 (3). The regulations do not specifically refer to registration for the performance of pregnancy terminations.
NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesThe Abortion Law Reform Act 2008 (1) does not prescribe where an abortion must take place. It is a legal requirement to register a day procedure centre or private hospital under Victoria law. The Victoria Department of Health is responsible for the regulation of private hospitals and day procedure centres under the Health Services Act 1988 (2) and the Health Services (Private Hospitals and Day Procedure Centres) Regulations 2013 (3). The regulations do not specifically refer to registration for the performance of pregnancy terminations. Related documents: |
National guidelines for post-abortion careWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) Additional notesThere are professional guidelines for medical health professionals on termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post-abortion care procedures, including contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website: https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Insurance to offset end user costsYes Related documents:Induced abortion for all womenYes Induced abortion for poor women onlyNot specified Abortion complicationsNot specified Private health coverageYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) |
Who can provide abortion servicesRelated documents:NurseYes A registered medical practitioner may, in writing, direct a registered pharmacist or registered nurse, who is employed or engaged by a hospital, to administer or supply a drug or drugs to cause an abortion in a woman who is more than 24 weeks pregnant. A registered pharmacist or registered nurse who is authorised under the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 to supply a drug or drugs may administer or supply the drug or drugs to cause an abortion in a woman who is not more than 24 weeks pregnant. Midwife/nurse-midwifeNot specified Doctor (specialty not specified)Not specified Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Other (if applicable)Medical practitioner A registered medical practitioner may, in writing, direct a registered pharmacist or registered nurse, who is employed or engaged by a hospital, to administer or supply a drug or drugs to cause an abortion in a woman who is more than 24 weeks pregnant. A registered pharmacist or registered nurse who is authorised under the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 to supply a drug or drugs may administer or supply the drug or drugs to cause an abortion in a woman who is not more than 24 weeks pregnant. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNot specified Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
Western Australia (Australia) |
National guidelines for induced abortionYes, guidelines issued by the government WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesIn addition to the Western Australia Department of Health Termination of Pregnancy Information for Medical Practitioners, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Methods allowedVacuum aspirationYes (up to 12 WEEKS) In addition to the Western Australia Department of Health Termination of Pregnancy Information for Medical Practitioners, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Dilatation and evacuationYes (up to 12 WEEKS) In addition to the Western Australia Department of Health Termination of Pregnancy Information for Medical Practitioners, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Combination mifepristone-misoprostolNot specified In addition to the Western Australia Department of Health Termination of Pregnancy Information for Medical Practitioners, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Misoprostol onlyNot specified In addition to the Western Australia Department of Health Termination of Pregnancy Information for Medical Practitioners, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf Other (where provided)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Vacuum aspiration is recommended for surgical abortions at or under 14 weeks to be provided by traditional and complementary medicine professionals, nurses, midwives, associate/advanced associate clinicians, generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 101) Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is recommended for surgical abortions at or over 14 weeks to be provided by generalist medical practitioners and specialist medical practitioners. Vacuum aspiration can be used during a D&E. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 103) The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the use of misoprostol alone, with a regime that differs by gestational age. Evidence demonstrates that the use of combination mifepristone plus misoprostol is more effective than misoprostol alone. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 106) |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)Yes Pharmacy selling or distributionNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
No data
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)No data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Mifepristone and misoprostol should be listed in relevant national EMLs (NEMLs) or their equivalent and should be included in the relevant clinical care/service delivery guidelines. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 55) |
Where can abortion services be providedRelated documents:Primary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified Other (if applicable)Abortions after 20 weeks gestation can only be legally provided in facilities approved by the Minister. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
National guidelines for post-abortion careYes, guidelines issued by the government WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. National standards and guidelines for abortion care should be evidence based and periodically updated and should provide the necessary guidance to achieve equal access to comprehensive abortion care. Leadership should also promote evidence-based SRH services according to these standards and guidelines. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.3. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 50) Additional notesIn addition to the Western Australia Department of Health Termination of Pregnancy Information for Medical Practitioners, there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNot specified Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNot specified Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNot specified Private health-care centres or clinicsNot specified NGO health-care centres or clinicsNot specified WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of telemedicine as an alternative to in-person interactions with the health worker to deliver medical abortion services in whole or in part. Telemedicine services should include referrals (based on the woman’s location) for medicines (abortion and pain control medicines), any abortion care or post-abortion follow-up required (including for emergency care if needed), and for post-abortion contraceptive services. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 133) |
Contraception included in post-abortion careWHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. All contraceptive options may be considered after an abortion. For individuals undergoing surgical abortion and wishing to use contraception, Abortion Care Guideline recommends the option of initiating the contraception at the time of surgical abortion. For individuals undergoing medical abortion, for those who choose to use hormonal contraception, the Abortion Care Guideline suggests that they be given the option of starting hormonal contraception immediately after the first pill of the medical abortion regimen. For those who choose to have an IUD inserted, Abortion Care Guideline suggests IUD placement at the time that success of the abortion procedure is determined. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.5.4. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 126) Additional notesIn addition to the Western Australia Department of Health Termination of Pregnancy Information for Medical Practitioner there are national professional guidelines to medical health professionals on providing termination of pregnancy, including medical termination and late termination by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). They include references to post abortion care procedures too, such as contraceptive counselling. These professional guidelines can be accessed from the RANZCOG website:
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Use-of-mifepristone-for-medical-termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-21)-Amended-February-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Termination-of-pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17)-Review-July-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf
https://www.ranzcog.edu.au/RANZCOG_SITE/media/RANZCOG-MEDIA/Women%27s%20Health/Statement%20and%20guidelines/Clinical%20-%20Gynaecology/Late-Termination-of-Pregnancy-(C-Gyn-17a)-New-May-2016.pdf?ext=.pdf |
No data
Insurance to offset end user costsNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where user fees are charged for abortion, this should be based on careful consideration of ability to pay, and fee waivers should be available for those who are facing financial hardship and adolescent abortion seekers. As far as possible, abortion services and supplies should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans as inability to pay is not an acceptable reason to deny or delay abortion care. Furthermore, having transparent procedures in all health-care facilities can ensure that informal charges are not imposed by staff. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.4.2. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 53) |
Who can provide abortion servicesNurseNot specified Midwife/nurse-midwifeNot specified Doctor (specialty not specified)Not specified Specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Other (if applicable)Medical practitioner, defined as a person registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (Western Australia) in the medical profession WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends against regulation on who can provide and manage abortion that is inconsistent with WHO guidance. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.8. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 97) |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNot specified Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot specified Minimum number of bedsNot specified Other (if applicable)WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. There is no single recommended approach to providing abortion services. The choice of specific health worker(s) (from among the recommended options) or management by the individual themself, and the location of service provision (from among recommended options) will depend on the values and preferences of the woman, girl or other pregnant person, available resources, and the national and local context. A plurality of service-delivery approaches can co-exist within any given context. Given that service-delivery approaches can be diverse, it is important to ensure that for the individual seeking care, the range of service-delivery options taken together will provide access to scientifically accurate, understandable information at all stages; access to quality-assured medicines (including those for pain management); back-up referral support if desired or needed; linkages to an appropriate choice of contraceptive services for those who want post-abortion contraception. Best Practice Statement 49 on service delivery. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.6.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 132) |
Country | Public sector providers |
Private sector providers |
Provider type not specified |
Neither Type of Provider Permitted |
Public facilities |
Private facilities |
Facility type not specified |
Neither Type of Facility Permitted |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Australia |
Public sector providersVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Private sector providersVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Provider type not specifiedVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Public facilitiesVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Private facilitiesVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Facility type not specifiedVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedVaries by jurisdictionWhere policies or laws vary by jurisdiction, this is noted with an accompanying note and no interpretation is made. Varies by Jurisdiction WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesAccess to safe and legal abortion services is governed by each state or territory, rather than at the national level. The only nationwide applicable source that could be found was the approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Mifepristone/Misoprostol combination. However, rules on accessing this medicine at the local level also vary.
Gestational limits also vary from state to state, as do the grounds of access, and any additional restrictions. Related documents: |
Capital Territory (Australia) |
Public sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesDoctors and nurses can refuse to prescribe, supply or administer an abortifacient, or carry out or assist in carrying out a surgical abortion, on religious or other conscientious grounds. They must not refuse to carry out, or assist in carrying out, a surgical abortion in an emergency where an abortion is necessary to preserve the life of the pregnant person; or to provide medical assistance or treatment to a person requiring medical treatment because of an abortion. In case of refusal, the doctor or nurse must tell a person requesting the abortifacient or abortion that they refuse because of the objection. |
Private sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesDoctors and nurses can refuse to prescribe, supply or administer an abortifacient, or carry out or assist in carrying out a surgical abortion, on religious or other conscientious grounds. They must not refuse to carry out, or assist in carrying out, a surgical abortion in an emergency where an abortion is necessary to preserve the life of the pregnant person; or to provide medical assistance or treatment to a person requiring medical treatment because of an abortion. In case of refusal, the doctor or nurse must tell a person requesting the abortifacient or abortion that they refuse because of the objection. |
Provider type not specifiedYes Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesDoctors and nurses can refuse to prescribe, supply or administer an abortifacient, or carry out or assist in carrying out a surgical abortion, on religious or other conscientious grounds. They must not refuse to carry out, or assist in carrying out, a surgical abortion in an emergency where an abortion is necessary to preserve the life of the pregnant person; or to provide medical assistance or treatment to a person requiring medical treatment because of an abortion. In case of refusal, the doctor or nurse must tell a person requesting the abortifacient or abortion that they refuse because of the objection. |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesDoctors and nurses can refuse to prescribe, supply or administer an abortifacient, or carry out or assist in carrying out a surgical abortion, on religious or other conscientious grounds. They must not refuse to carry out, or assist in carrying out, a surgical abortion in an emergency where an abortion is necessary to preserve the life of the pregnant person; or to provide medical assistance or treatment to a person requiring medical treatment because of an abortion. In case of refusal, the doctor or nurse must tell a person requesting the abortifacient or abortion that they refuse because of the objection. |
Public facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Private facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Facility type not specifiedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
New South Wales (Australia) |
Public sector providersRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes The registered health practitioner must, as soon as practicable after the person makes the request for a termination, disclose the practitioner’s conscientious objection to the first person. The practitioner must then without delay give information to the person on how to locate or contact a medical practitioner who, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination, or transfer the person’s care to another registered health practitioner who, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, can provide the requested service and does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination, or a health service provider at which, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, the requested service can be provided by another registered health practitioner who does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination. The obligation to provide the service in an emergency regardless of conscientious objection remains. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Private sector providersRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes The registered health practitioner must, as soon as practicable after the person makes the request for a termination, disclose the practitioner’s conscientious objection to the first person. The practitioner must then without delay give information to the person on how to locate or contact a medical practitioner who, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination, or transfer the person’s care to another registered health practitioner who, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, can provide the requested service and does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination, or a health service provider at which, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, the requested service can be provided by another registered health practitioner who does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination. The obligation to provide the service in an emergency regardless of conscientious objection remains. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Provider type not specifiedYes Related documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes The registered health practitioner must, as soon as practicable after the person makes the request for a termination, disclose the practitioner’s conscientious objection to the first person. The practitioner must then without delay give information to the person on how to locate or contact a medical practitioner who, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination, or transfer the person’s care to another registered health practitioner who, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, can provide the requested service and does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination, or a health service provider at which, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, the requested service can be provided by another registered health practitioner who does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination. The obligation to provide the service in an emergency regardless of conscientious objection remains. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes The registered health practitioner must, as soon as practicable after the person makes the request for a termination, disclose the practitioner’s conscientious objection to the first person. The practitioner must then without delay give information to the person on how to locate or contact a medical practitioner who, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination, or transfer the person’s care to another registered health practitioner who, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, can provide the requested service and does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination, or a health service provider at which, in the first practitioner’s reasonable belief, the requested service can be provided by another registered health practitioner who does not have a conscientious objection to the performance of the termination. The obligation to provide the service in an emergency regardless of conscientious objection remains. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Public facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Private facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Facility type not specifiedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Northern Territory (Australia) |
Public sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes It is important such a referral be timely, for example within a maximum of two days following initial consultation WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Private sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes It is important such a referral be timely, for example within a maximum of two days following initial consultation WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Provider type not specifiedYes Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes It is important such a referral be timely, for example within a maximum of two days following initial consultation WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes It is important such a referral be timely, for example within a maximum of two days following initial consultation WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Public facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Private facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Facility type not specifiedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Queensland (Australia) |
Public sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesNot permitted in cases of emergency. |
Private sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesNot permitted in cases of emergency. |
Provider type not specifiedYes Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesNot permitted in cases of emergency. |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesNot permitted in cases of emergency. |
Public facilitiesNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesThe Queensland Clinical Guidelines for the Termination of Pregnancy specify that Hospitals, institutions or services do not have the right to conscientiously object as this is a personal and individual right. |
Private facilitiesNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesThe Queensland Clinical Guidelines for the Termination of Pregnancy specify that Hospitals, institutions or services do not have the right to conscientiously object as this is a personal and individual right. |
Facility type not specifiedNo Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesThe Queensland Clinical Guidelines for the Termination of Pregnancy specify that Hospitals, institutions or services do not have the right to conscientiously object as this is a personal and individual right. |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedYes Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesThe Queensland Clinical Guidelines for the Termination of Pregnancy specify that Hospitals, institutions or services do not have the right to conscientiously object as this is a personal and individual right. |
South Australia (Australia) |
Public sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes All medical practitioners must ensure access to appropriate termination of pregnancy services through either local service provision or through well-developed referral processes/pathways to external services. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesIndividuals are permitted to conscientiously object in cases where they are asked to perform a termination on another person; assist in the performance of a termination on another person; make a decision about whether a termination on another person should be performed; or advise the first person about the performance of a termination on another person. The registered health practitioner must, as soon as practicable after the first person makes the request, disclose the practitioner's conscientious objection to the first person. This does not apply to emergency services needed. |
Private sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes All medical practitioners must ensure access to appropriate termination of pregnancy services through either local service provision or through well-developed referral processes/pathways to external services. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesIndividuals are permitted to conscientiously object in cases where they are asked to perform a termination on another person; assist in the performance of a termination on another person; make a decision about whether a termination on another person should be performed; or advise the first person about the performance of a termination on another person. The registered health practitioner must, as soon as practicable after the first person makes the request, disclose the practitioner's conscientious objection to the first person. This does not apply to emergency services needed. |
Provider type not specifiedYes Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes All medical practitioners must ensure access to appropriate termination of pregnancy services through either local service provision or through well-developed referral processes/pathways to external services. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesIndividuals are permitted to conscientiously object in cases where they are asked to perform a termination on another person; assist in the performance of a termination on another person; make a decision about whether a termination on another person should be performed; or advise the first person about the performance of a termination on another person. The registered health practitioner must, as soon as practicable after the first person makes the request, disclose the practitioner's conscientious objection to the first person. This does not apply to emergency services needed. |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes All medical practitioners must ensure access to appropriate termination of pregnancy services through either local service provision or through well-developed referral processes/pathways to external services. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesIndividuals are permitted to conscientiously object in cases where they are asked to perform a termination on another person; assist in the performance of a termination on another person; make a decision about whether a termination on another person should be performed; or advise the first person about the performance of a termination on another person. The registered health practitioner must, as soon as practicable after the first person makes the request, disclose the practitioner's conscientious objection to the first person. This does not apply to emergency services needed. |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesConscientious objection applies only to an individual registered health practitioner. South Australia Health sites do not have a right to conscientious objection. |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesConscientious objection applies only to an individual registered health practitioner. South Australia Health sites do not have a right to conscientious objection. |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesConscientious objection applies only to an individual registered health practitioner. South Australia Health sites do not have a right to conscientious objection. |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedYes Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) Additional notesConscientious objection applies only to an individual registered health practitioner. South Australia Health sites do not have a right to conscientious objection. |
Tasmania (Australia) |
Public sector providersRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes No individual has a duty to perform a termination by contract or by any other legal requirement if the person has a conscientious objection, except in the case where the termination is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or prevent serious injury to her. In this case, a medical practitioner has a duty to perform a termination, and a nurse or midwife has a duty to assist. In non-emergency situations where the practitioner has a conscientious objection, they must, on becoming aware that a woman is seeking a termination, provide the woman with a full list of prescribed health services from which the woman may seek advice, information and counselling on the full range of pregnancy options. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesNo individual has a duty to perform a termination by contract or by any other legal requirement if the person has a conscientious objection, except in the case where the termination is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or prevent serious injury to her. In this case, a medical practitioner has a duty to perform a termination, and a nurse or midwife has a duty to assist. In non-emergency situations where the practitioner has a conscientious objection, they must, on becoming aware that a woman is seeking a termination, provide the woman with a full list of prescribed health services from which the woman may seek advice, information and counselling on the full range of pregnancy options. |
Private sector providersRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes No individual has a duty to perform a termination by contract or by any other legal requirement if the person has a conscientious objection, except in the case where the termination is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or prevent serious injury to her. In this case, a medical practitioner has a duty to perform a termination, and a nurse or midwife has a duty to assist. In non-emergency situations where the practitioner has a conscientious objection, they must, on becoming aware that a woman is seeking a termination, provide the woman with a full list of prescribed health services from which the woman may seek advice, information and counselling on the full range of pregnancy options. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesNo individual has a duty to perform a termination by contract or by any other legal requirement if the person has a conscientious objection, except in the case where the termination is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or prevent serious injury to her. In this case, a medical practitioner has a duty to perform a termination, and a nurse or midwife has a duty to assist. In non-emergency situations where the practitioner has a conscientious objection, they must, on becoming aware that a woman is seeking a termination, provide the woman with a full list of prescribed health services from which the woman may seek advice, information and counselling on the full range of pregnancy options. |
Provider type not specifiedYes Related documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes No individual has a duty to perform a termination by contract or by any other legal requirement if the person has a conscientious objection, except in the case where the termination is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or prevent serious injury to her. In this case, a medical practitioner has a duty to perform a termination, and a nurse or midwife has a duty to assist. In non-emergency situations where the practitioner has a conscientious objection, they must, on becoming aware that a woman is seeking a termination, provide the woman with a full list of prescribed health services from which the woman may seek advice, information and counselling on the full range of pregnancy options. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesNo individual has a duty to perform a termination by contract or by any other legal requirement if the person has a conscientious objection, except in the case where the termination is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or prevent serious injury to her. In this case, a medical practitioner has a duty to perform a termination, and a nurse or midwife has a duty to assist. In non-emergency situations where the practitioner has a conscientious objection, they must, on becoming aware that a woman is seeking a termination, provide the woman with a full list of prescribed health services from which the woman may seek advice, information and counselling on the full range of pregnancy options. |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes No individual has a duty to perform a termination by contract or by any other legal requirement if the person has a conscientious objection, except in the case where the termination is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or prevent serious injury to her. In this case, a medical practitioner has a duty to perform a termination, and a nurse or midwife has a duty to assist. In non-emergency situations where the practitioner has a conscientious objection, they must, on becoming aware that a woman is seeking a termination, provide the woman with a full list of prescribed health services from which the woman may seek advice, information and counselling on the full range of pregnancy options. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesNo individual has a duty to perform a termination by contract or by any other legal requirement if the person has a conscientious objection, except in the case where the termination is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or prevent serious injury to her. In this case, a medical practitioner has a duty to perform a termination, and a nurse or midwife has a duty to assist. In non-emergency situations where the practitioner has a conscientious objection, they must, on becoming aware that a woman is seeking a termination, provide the woman with a full list of prescribed health services from which the woman may seek advice, information and counselling on the full range of pregnancy options. |
Public facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Private facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Facility type not specifiedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Victoria (Australia) |
Public sector providersRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesMedical practitioners, registered nurses and pharmacists are under a duty to perform an abortion in an emergency when the abortion is necessary to save the life of the woman. |
Private sector providersRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesMedical practitioners, registered nurses and pharmacists are under a duty to perform an abortion in an emergency when the abortion is necessary to save the life of the woman. |
Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesMedical practitioners, registered nurses and pharmacists are under a duty to perform an abortion in an emergency when the abortion is necessary to save the life of the woman. |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedRelated documents:Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerYes WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) Additional notesMedical practitioners, registered nurses and pharmacists are under a duty to perform an abortion in an emergency when the abortion is necessary to save the life of the woman. |
Public facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Private facilitiesNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Facility type not specifiedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. Related documents:WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Western Australia (Australia) |
Public sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Private sector providersIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Provider type not specifiedYes Individual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Neither Type of Provider PermittedIndividual health-care providers who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNo WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. The Abortion Care Guideline recommends that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection. It is critical that States ensure compliance with regulations and design/organize health systems to ensure access to and continuity of quality abortion care. If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers’ rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible. Abortion Care Guideline § 3.3.9. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 98) |
Public facilitiesRelated documents:Health-care facilities who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Private facilitiesRelated documents:Health-care facilities who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Health-care facilities who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Neither Type of Facility PermittedRelated documents:Health-care facilities who have objected are required to refer the woman to another providerNot specifiedWhen there is no explicit reference to an issue covered in the questionnaire in the relevant document(s), this is noted and no interpretation was made. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions were extracted from WHO Abortion Care Guideline. Where there is a specific Recommendation, this is stated. Otherwise, these are excerpts. Where it is lawful, abortion must be accessible in practice. This requires both ensuring that health-care facilities, commodities and services are accessible (including sufficient providers), and that law and policy on abortion is formulated, interpreted and applied in a way that is compatible with human rights. Abortion Care Guideline § 1.3.1. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 48) |
Country specific information regarding abortion related penalties. Information regarding penalties has been presented in English only; this information is not based on an official translation. Please review the source documents provided.
Country | Penalties deconstructed |
Penalties for woman |
Penalties for provider |
Penalties for person who assists |
Secondary additional considerations/judicial discretion |
Penalties for non-consensual abortion and or negligence |
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Capital Territory (Australia) |
Penalties deconstructedPenalties only for unlawful/illegal abortions |
PenaltiesOnly a doctor may carry out abortion. A person who is not a doctor must not carry out an abortion. Maximum penalty: imprisonment for 5 years. Abortion to be carried out in approved medical facility A person must not carry out an abortion except in a medical facility, or part of a medical facility, approved under section 83 (1). Maximum penalty: 50 penalty units, imprisonment for 6 months or both. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesOnly a doctor may carry out abortion. A person who is not a doctor must not carry out an abortion. Maximum penalty: imprisonment for 5 years. Abortion to be carried out in approved medical facility A person must not carry out an abortion except in a medical facility, or part of a medical facility, approved under section 83 (1). Maximum penalty: 50 penalty units, imprisonment for 6 months or both. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesThe Health Act 1993 states that a person commits an offence if the person supplies or administers an abortifacient to another person; and the abortifacient is supplied or administered by the person for the purpose of ending a pregnancy; and the person is not a doctor. Pharmacists and persons assisting them may supply an abortifacient in accordance with a prescription. Furthermore, a person commits an offence if the person carries out a surgical abortion and is not a doctor and/or the abortion is carried out somewhere other than in an approved medical facility. |
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New South Wales (Australia) |
Penalties deconstructedPenalties only for unlawful/illegal abortions |
PenaltiesTermination of pregnancy performed by unqualified person (1) An unqualified person who performs a termination on another person commits an offence. Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment. (2) An unqualified person who assists in the performance of a termination on another person commits an offence. Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment. (3) A reference in subsection (2) to assisting in the performance of a termination includes— (a) supplying, or procuring the supply of, a termination drug for use in a termination, and (b) administering a termination drug. Note. Section 12 of the Abortion Law Reform Act 2019 provides that a person who consents to, assists in, or performs a termination on themselves does not commit an offence. (4) Proceedings for an offence under this section may only be instituted by, or with the approval of, the Director of Public Prosecutions. (5) In this section— medical practitioner means a person registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law to practise in the medical profession, other than as a student. perform includes attempt to perform. termination means an intentional termination of a pregnancy in any way, including, for example, by— (a) administering a drug, or (b) using an instrument or other thing. unqualified person means— (a) in relation to performing a termination on another person—a person who is not a medical practitioner, or (b) in relation to assisting in the performance of a termination on another person—a person who is not authorised under section 8 of the Abortion Law Reform Act 2019 to assist in the performance of the termination WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesTermination of pregnancy performed by unqualified person (1) An unqualified person who performs a termination on another person commits an offence. Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment. (2) An unqualified person who assists in the performance of a termination on another person commits an offence. Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment. (3) A reference in subsection (2) to assisting in the performance of a termination includes— (a) supplying, or procuring the supply of, a termination drug for use in a termination, and (b) administering a termination drug. Note. Section 12 of the Abortion Law Reform Act 2019 provides that a person who consents to, assists in, or performs a termination on themselves does not commit an offence. (4) Proceedings for an offence under this section may only be instituted by, or with the approval of, the Director of Public Prosecutions. (5) In this section— medical practitioner means a person registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law to practise in the medical profession, other than as a student. perform includes attempt to perform. termination means an intentional termination of a pregnancy in any way, including, for example, by— (a) administering a drug, or (b) using an instrument or other thing. unqualified person means— (a) in relation to performing a termination on another person—a person who is not a medical practitioner, or (b) in relation to assisting in the performance of a termination on another person—a person who is not authorised under section 8 of the Abortion Law Reform Act 2019 to assist in the performance of the termination WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesNone found |
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Northern Territory (Australia) |
Penalties deconstructedLegal grounds specified; penalties for all other abortions |
Penalties4 (3) A person commits an offence if: (a) the person intentionally gives information to the Chief Health Officer for the purpose mentioned in subregulation (1); and (b) the information is misleading and the person has knowledge of that circumstance. Maximum penalty: 100 penalty units. A person commits an offence if: (a) the person intentionally gives a document to the Chief Health Officer for the purpose mentioned in subregulation (1); and (b) the document contains misleading information and the person has knowledge of that circumstance. Maximum penalty: 100 penalty units. 10 A medical practitioner who performs or directs the performance of a termination must provide to the Chief Health Officer the information prescribed by regulation 8 in the approved form and within the time prescribed by regulation 9. Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units. An offence against subregulation (1) is an offence of strict liability. It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subregulation (1) if the defendant has a reasonable excuse. The offence in 4(3) pertains to medical practitioners. 4(1) states - The CHO may verify the credentials of a medical practitioner for the purpose of confirming the medical practitioner as a suitably qualified medical practitioner. 4(2) states - A medical practitioner must provide true and accurate information to the CHO for the purpose mentioned in sub-regulation (1). Criminal Code Act - Any person who, when a woman or girl is about to be delivered of a child, prevents the child from being born alive by any act or omission of such a nature that, if the child had been born alive and had then died, he would be deemed to have unlawfully killed the child, is guilty of an offence and is liable to imprisonment for life. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
Penalties4 (3) A person commits an offence if: (a) the person intentionally gives information to the Chief Health Officer for the purpose mentioned in subregulation (1); and (b) the information is misleading and the person has knowledge of that circumstance. Maximum penalty: 100 penalty units. A person commits an offence if: (a) the person intentionally gives a document to the Chief Health Officer for the purpose mentioned in subregulation (1); and (b) the document contains misleading information and the person has knowledge of that circumstance. Maximum penalty: 100 penalty units. 10 A medical practitioner who performs or directs the performance of a termination must provide to the Chief Health Officer the information prescribed by regulation 8 in the approved form and within the time prescribed by regulation 9. Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units. An offence against subregulation (1) is an offence of strict liability. It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subregulation (1) if the defendant has a reasonable excuse. The offence in 4(3) pertains to medical practitioners. 4(1) states - The CHO may verify the credentials of a medical practitioner for the purpose of confirming the medical practitioner as a suitably qualified medical practitioner. 4(2) states - A medical practitioner must provide true and accurate information to the CHO for the purpose mentioned in sub-regulation (1). Criminal Code Act - Any person who, when a woman or girl is about to be delivered of a child, prevents the child from being born alive by any act or omission of such a nature that, if the child had been born alive and had then died, he would be deemed to have unlawfully killed the child, is guilty of an offence and is liable to imprisonment for life. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesNone found |
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Queensland (Australia) |
Penalties deconstructedPenalties only for unlawful/illegal abortions |
PenaltiesQueensland Criminal Code - 319A Termination of pregnancy performed by unqualified person (1) An unqualified person who performs a termination on a woman commits a crime. 319 319A Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment. 2. (2) An unqualified person who assists in the performance of a termination on a woman commits a crime. Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment. 3. (3) A reference in subsection (2) to assisting in the performance of a termination includes— 1. (a) supplying, or procuring the supply of, a termination drug for use in a termination; and 2. (b) administering a termination drug. Note— The Termination of Pregnancy Act 2018, section 10 provides that a woman who consents to, assists in, or performs a termination on herself does not commit an offence. Any person who, with intent to procure the miscarriage of a woman, whether she is or is not with child, unlawfully administers to her or causes her to take any poison or other noxious thing, or uses any force of any kind, or uses any other means whatever, is guilty of a crime, and is liable to imprisonment for 14 years. 225 The like by women with child: Any woman who, with intent to procure her own miscarriage, whether she is or is not with child, unlawfully administers to herself any poison or other noxious thing, or uses any force of any kind, or uses any other means whatever, or permits any such thing or means to be administered or used to her, is guilty of a crime, and is liable to imprisonment for 7 years. 226 Supplying drugs or instruments to procure abortion: Any person who unlawfully supplies to or procures for any person anything whatever, knowing that it is intended to be unlawfully used to procure the miscarriage of a woman, whether she is or is not with child, is guilty of a misdemeanor, and is liable to imprisonment for 3 years. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesQueensland Criminal Code - 2Termination of pregnancy performed by unqualified person (1) An unqualified person who performs a termination on a woman commits a crime. 319 319A Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment. 2. (2) An unqualified person who assists in the performance of a termination on a woman commits a crime. Maximum penalty—7 years imprisonment. 3. (3) A reference in subsection (2) to assisting in the performance of a termination includes— 1. (a) supplying, or procuring the supply of, a termination drug for use in a termination; and 2. (b) administering a termination drug. Note— The Termination of Pregnancy Act 2018, section 10 provides that a woman who consents to, assists in, or performs a termination on herself does not commit an offence. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesNone found |
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South Australia (Australia) |
Penalties deconstructedPenalties only for unlawful/illegal abortions |
PenaltiesPregnancy Termination Bill 2021: (1) An unqualified person who performs a termination on another person commits an offence. Maximum penalty: 7 years imprisonment. (2) An unqualified person who assists in the performance of a termination on another person commits an offence. Maximum penalty: 5 years imprisonment. (3) In this section— unqualified person means— (a) in relation to the performance of a termination under subsection (1)—a person who is not a registered health practitioner authorised under this Act to perform a termination; or (b) in relation to assisting in the performance of a termination under subsection (2)—a person who is not a registered health practitioner acting in the ordinary course of the practitioner's profession. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesPregnancy Termination Bill 2021: (1) An unqualified person who performs a termination on another person commits an offence. Maximum penalty: 7 years imprisonment. (2) An unqualified person who assists in the performance of a termination on another person commits an offence. Maximum penalty: 5 years imprisonment. (3) In this section— unqualified person means— (a) in relation to the performance of a termination under subsection (1)—a person who is not a registered health practitioner authorised under this Act to perform a termination; or (b) in relation to assisting in the performance of a termination under subsection (2)—a person who is not a registered health practitioner acting in the ordinary course of the practitioner's profession. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesPregnancy Termination Bill 2021: A prosecution for an offence against this Part cannot be commenced without the Director of Public Prosecution's written consent. |
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Tasmania (Australia) |
Penalties deconstructedPenalties only for unlawful/illegal abortions |
PenaltiesReproductive Health (Access to Terminations) Act 2013 (No. 72 of 2013): 78D. Termination by person other than medical practitioner or pregnant woman (1) A person who performs a termination on a woman and who is not (a) a medical practitioner; or (b) the pregnant woman is guilty of a crime. Charge: Termination by person other than medical practitioner or pregnant woman. (2) For the purposes of subsection (1), woman means a female person of any age. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesReproductive Health (Access to Terminations) Act 2013 (No. 72 of 2013): 78D. Termination by person other than medical practitioner or pregnant woman (1) A person who performs a termination on a woman and who is not (a) a medical practitioner; or (b) the pregnant woman is guilty of a crime. Charge: Termination by person other than medical practitioner or pregnant woman. (2) For the purposes of subsection (1), woman means a female person of any age. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesNone found |
PenaltiesReproductive Health (Access to Terminations) Act 2013 (No. 72 of 2013): 178E. Termination without woman's consent: (1) A person who intentionally or recklessly performs a termination on a woman without the woman's consent, whether or not the woman suffers any other harm, is guilty of a crime. Charge: Termination without woman's consent. (2) No prosecution is to be instituted against a medical practitioner who performs a termination on a woman if the woman is incapable of giving consent and the termination is (a) performed in good faith and with reasonable care and skill; and (b) is for the woman's benefit; and (c) is reasonable having regard to all the circumstances. (3) For the purposes of this section, woman means a female person of any age. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
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Victoria (Australia) |
Penalties deconstructedPenalties only for unlawful/illegal abortions |
PenaltiesCrimes Act 1958 - (11) Attempts to procure abortion- 65 Abortion performed by unqualified person: (1) A person who is not a qualified person must not perform an abortion on another person. Penalty: Level 5 imprisonment (10 years maximum). (2) A woman who consents to, or assists in, the performance of an abortion on herself is not guilty of an offence against this section. (3) For the purposes of this section— (a) a registered medical practitioner is a qualified person; and (b) a registered pharmacist or registered nurse is a qualified person only for the purpose of performing an abortion by administering or supplying a drug or drugs in accordance with the Abortion Law Reform Act 2008. (4) In this section— abortion has the same meaning as in the Abortion Law Reform Act 2008; perform an abortion includes supply or procure the supply of any drug or other substance knowing that it is intended to be used to cause an abortion; registered medical practitioner means a person registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law to practise in the medical profession (other than as a student); registered nurse means a person registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law to practise in the nursing and midwifery profession as a nurse or as a midwife (other than as a student); registered pharmacist means a person registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law to practise in the pharmacy profession (other than as a student); woman means a female person of any age. 66 Abortion—Abolition of common law offences: Any rule of common law that creates an offence in relation to procuring a woman's miscarriage is abolished. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesNone found |
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Western Australia (Australia) |
Penalties deconstructedLegal grounds specified; penalties for all other abortions |
PenaltiesWestern Australia Criminal Code Amended - Abortion 199. It is unlawful to perform an abortion (1) unless — (a) the abortion is performed by a medical practitioner in good faith and with reasonable care and skill; and (b) the performance of the abortion is justified under section 334 of the Health Act 1911. (2) A person who unlawfully performs an abortion is guilty of an offence. Penalty: $50 000. (3) Subject to section 259, if a person who is not a medical practitioner performs an abortion that person is guilty of a crime and is liable to imprisonment for 5 years. (4) In this section — ‘‘medical practitioner’’ has the same meaning as it has in the Health Act 1911. (5) A reference in this section to performing an abortion includes a reference to — (a) attempting to perform an abortion; and (b) doing any act with intent to procure an abortion, whether or not the woman concerned is pregnant. Section 259 of the Code is repealed and the following section is substituted — ‘‘ Surgical and medical treatment 259. A person is not criminally responsible for administering, in good faith and with reasonable care and skill, surgical or medical treatment — (a) to another person for that other person’s benefit; or (b) to an unborn child for the preservation of the mother’s life, if the administration of the treatment is reasonable, having regard to the patient’s state at the time and to all the circumstances of the case.’’ WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. WHO Abortion Care Guideline, p 62. Source document: WHO Abortion Care Guideline (page 62) |
PenaltiesNone found |