Today, Women’s Health Victoria (WHV) and the Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health (MCWH) have welcomed the Labor Party’s commitment to expand abortion access, and called on all parties to support access to abortion.
CEO of WHV, Sally Hasler said that despite being decriminalised in Victoria, abortion is a stigmatised form of health care and can be difficult to access.
“Addressing affordability is very important to improving access as it is the main barrier to care,” Ms Hasler said.
“Our 1800 My Options’ service takes about 9,000 calls a year from people looking for help with sexual and reproductive health. About 90% of callers are looking for help to have an abortion.
“More than one third of callers to 1800 My Options tell us that they can’t afford an abortion. No one should have to decide whether they can access an abortion or any essential healthcare based on cost.
“In August, as part of the SPHERE coalition, we called on governments to improve affordability, including by investing in public hospital capability and integrating private service models where public provision is limited,” she said.
It is important that any expansion to abortion access in Victoria protects existing services, including those provided through public hospitals, community health and GPs, so women can choose their preferred provider of care.
CEO of MCWH, Adele Murdolo said the announcement includes support for women on temporary visas, which is an important measure to improve access.
“For migrant and refugee women, the cost of abortion care can be a significant barrier, particularly for women on temporary visas who are ineligible for Medicare,” Dr Murdolo said.
“No woman should have to delay essential healthcare or go without care because she cannot afford it. We endorse this proposed policy because it will support women, regardless of their visa status, to exercise their right to choose.”
Ms Hasler said the ALP announcement also includes expanded funding for 1800 My Options.
“We’re also pleased that today’s announcement will include funding for 1800 My Options to continue to provide free, non-judgemental, pro-choice support for women to access abortion care and other sexual and reproductive health care.
“We are looking forward to implementing this announcement, and call on all political parties to meet this commitment to improve access to essential healthcare.”