It is estimated that between one quarter and one third of Australian women will experience an abortion in their lifetime. It's important to know that you're not alone, there are accessible avenues for you to take if you are thinking about or having an abortion.

An abortion is the medical procedure to terminate (end) a pregnancy. There are two options available, which your doctor will discuss depending on your personal situation. Both ways are very safe and effective.

The cost of an abortion may vary depending on what option you choose, whether you use a public service or a private clinic, even between each state and territory.

Some Hospitals and GPs may offer bulk billing or it may be partially covered by Medicare. Having an abortion in early pregnancy can minimise the cost of the procedure and maximise options available to you.

In Australia, abortion is legal in every state and territory when performed by a registered doctor, but each have different laws.

Only you, alongside your doctor have the right to decide whether abortion is the best option for you.

New South Wales

Abortion is legal in New South Wales and a termination can be performed up to 22 weeks of pregnancy. After 22 weeks, a second medical practitioner must be consulted.

Victoria

Abortion is legal in Victoria and a termination can be performed up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. After 24 weeks, a second medical practitioner must be consulted and agree that this is appropriate in all circumstances.

Queensland

Abortion is legal in Queensland and a termination can be performed up to 22 weeks of pregnancy. After 22 weeks, a second medical practitioner must be consulted and agree that this is appropriate in all circumstances.

Australian Capital Territory

Abortion is legal in the Australian Capital Territory and there is no limit to accessing services. Though an abortion must be performed in an approved medical facility only.

Western Australia

Abortion is legal in Western Australia and a termination can be performed up to 20 weeks of pregnancy. After 20 weeks, a second medical practitioner must be consulted from a panel of six appointed by the WA Minister for Health and approved. The procedure must then take place in an approved facility.

South Australia

Abortion is legal in South Australia and a termination can be performed up to 22 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy. After 22 weeks and 6 days, a second medical practitioner must be consulted and agree that this is appropriate in all circumstances.

Before accessing abortion care you must reside in South Australia for at least 2 months.

Northern Territory

Abortion is legal in North Territory and a termination can be performed up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. After 24 weeks, a second medical practitioner must be consulted and agree that this is appropriate in all circumstances.

Tasmania

Abortion is legal in Tasmania and a termination can be performed up to 16 weeks of pregnancy. After 16 weeks, a second medical practitioner must be consulted and agree that this is appropriate in all circumstances. At least one of the consulted doctors must be an obstetrics or gynaecology specialist.

You can access safe and supportive abortion and family planning clinics in Australia. These include:

Resources and services by state:

NSW

VIC

QLD

ACT

WA

SA

NT

TAS

If you need support or want to talk to someone, our Sonder support team is available to chat at any time. You can also discuss your options with your GP or psychologist.

If you have any questions or need extra support, we're here to help you anytime in any language. Simply start a chat with us via the home screen of the Sonder app.

Information sourced from: Children by Choice, Health Direct, ACT Health, SA Health, Family Planning NSW, Family Planning Tasmania, Sexual Health Quarters, 1800myoptions, Options Clinic and Gynaecology Centres Australia.

Image credit: National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

All content is created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional.