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Australian Abortion Legislation

Abortion is the subject of criminal law in all Australian states and territories, except the Australian Capital Territory. Each state and territory has legislation prohibiting unlawful abortion. 

Queensland:  Abortion is legal in Queensland and available on request as a health service up until 22 weeks gestation, for any reason, without disclosing the reason to the doctor. 

New South Wales: Legal to 22 weeks. Legal post-22 weeks two doctors’ approval. Safe access zones are set at 150m around clinics that provide termination of pregnancy services.  

Australian Capital Territory: Abortion is legal in Australia Capital Territory with no pregnancy gestation limit. Safe access zones are set at 50m around the termination of pregnancy services. 

Victoria: Legal to 24 weeks. Legal post-24 weeks with two doctors’ approval. Safe access zones are set at 150m around clinics that provide termination of pregnancy services.

South Australia: Legal to 22 weeks and 6 days. Legal post-22 weeks and 6 days with two doctors’ approval. Safe access zones are set at 150m around clinics that provide termination of pregnancy services.

Tasmania: Legal to 16 weeks. Legal post-16 weeks with two doctors’ approval. Safe access zones are set at 150m around clinics that provide termination of pregnancy services.

Western Australia: Abortion is legal up to 20 weeks gestation, with limitations for pregnant people under the age of 16. Very restricted after 20 weeks. Safe access zones are set at 150m around clinics that provide termination of pregnancy services.  

Northern Territory: Legal to 24 weeks. Legal post-24 weeks with two doctors’ approval. Safe access zones are set at 150m around clinics that provide termination of pregnancy services.  

For more detailed information about abortion legislation and practice in Australia, visit Australian Abortion Law & Practice.