The Animal Justice Party (AJP) believes that access to abortion and contraceptive services is a fundamental component of a person’s right to make reproductive choices and control their own body. The AJP believes the government has a responsibility to provide safe, affordable and accessible contraception and abortion services as part of the public health system. Any person seeking those services should be safe, respected and not be subject to criminal charges or any form of harassment or undue influence.

Despite being decriminalised in all states and territories, access to abortion remains a challenge for many people across Australia. The AJP supports increased accessibility for diverse communities and people in rural and regional locations. This includes First Nations, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD), LGBTQIA+ and other minority communities.

Abortions are also often difficult to access via the public health system – many public hospitals do not offer abortion services, so most people are left with large out-of-pocket costs at private clinics to access both medical and surgical abortion services, which can be prohibitive for those on low incomes. 

Fewer than 10% of General Practitioners in Australia are registered to prescribe abortion medication, and fewer than 1% in regional areas. This means that many people in regional, rural and remote areas are forced to travel long distances to access abortions. AJP supports the government prioritising reproductive services availability nationwide with emphasis on improving service delivery to rural and regional areas.

Date first published: 31 July 2019

Date last reviewed: 27 October 2022