south Australian Abortion Bill Defeated in Parliament
Adelaide, South Australia – A bill seeking to restrict late-term abortions in south Australia was narrowly voted down by the upper house Wednesday night, following a debate mirroring a similar attempt last year.The proposed legislation would have mandated induction of labor for women exceeding 27 weeks and six days gestation,rather than allowing for termination of pregnancy.
The bill’s defeat comes after a contentious period marked by both pro-life and pro-choice demonstrations outside Parliament House. Hundreds of pro-life protesters gathered ahead of the vote, following a pro-choice rally held the previous week.
Independent MLC Tammy Franks voiced strong opposition to the bill, arguing that stricter laws render abortions ”unsafe.” Liberal MP Ben Hood, who introduced a similar bill in 2023, reiterated his firm beliefs on the issue and voted in favor of the current proposal. His previous attempt was also defeated in October of last year after a three-hour debate.
Liberal MP Michelle Lensink expressed emotional opposition, stating the bill undermined “informed consent” and conflicted with the Liberal Party’s principles of supporting individuals facing unfair laws.
The bill had received endorsement from anti-abortion campaigner Joanna Howe, who also assisted in drafting both the current and previous iterations of the legislation.
According to Mr. Hood, “viable babies have died as a consequence of [the current act].” the outcome maintains the status quo under existing South Australian law regarding abortion access.