Factors influencing women’s decisions about whether or not to continue a pregnancy include the level of support they are likely to receive, the financial resources they have access to and their own emotional readiness to become a parent. Regardless of whether a woman decides to continue or terminate her pregnancy she will need access to appropriate, sensitive and non-judgmental supports and services.
If you are looking for information in relation to pregnancy options, contact 1800 My Options.
Working to ensure women have the right and ability to access safe and legal abortion in Victoria has been a longstanding priority. Inability to access sexual and reproductive health services can contribute to social and economic disadvantage for women and further health inequalities.
We are proud to have played a significant role in:
View the full list of publications and resources related to abortion
Abortion is legal in Victoria. The Abortion Law Reform Act 2008 decriminalised abortion and regulates when abortion can take place. A woman is legally entitled to have an abortion until she is 24 weeks pregnant. After 24 weeks two doctors must agree the termination is appropriate, considering the woman’s relevant medical circumstances and her current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances. Abortion after 24 weeks is not common.
While some doctors may object to abortion, they are required by law to refer you to a pro-choice doctor if you wish to discuss abortion. If you feel your doctor has not done this, you can make a complaint to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
In 2016, legislation establishing safe access zones around abortion providers was introduced to ensure that women and staff entering or leaving premises providing abortions can do so safely and privately, without fear or harassment.
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WHV acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.
Acknowledgement of Country
Women’s Health Victoria acknowledges and pays our respects to the Traditional Owners of the land that our offices are situated on, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. As a statewide organisation, we also acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands and waters across Victoria. We pay our respects to them, their cultures and their Elders past and present.
Our Commitment to Gender Diversity & Inclusion
Women’s Health Victoria’s focus is women (cis and trans inclusive) and gender diverse people. We address feminist health issues and are committed to supporting all people impacted by gender inequity who can benefit from our work. As a proud intersectional feminist organisation, Women’s Health Victoria is working towards meaningful inclusivity, guided by and supporting people who identify as women, trans, intersex and gender diverse.
