Proposed SA abortion bill faces fierce pushback from GPs
08 Sep 2025
Describing it as ‘a step in the wrong direction,’ RACGP leaders have voiced strong opposition to a proposed SA abortion bill.
GPs in South Australia have strongly opposed a proposed bill by independent MP Sarah Game that would restrict abortion access after 23 weeks.
Currently, South Australian law allows abortions after 23 weeks if two doctors agree it poses a significant risk to the person’s physical or mental health. The new bill would remove this approval clause, limiting abortions after 23 weeks to cases where the mother’s life is at risk, there is a serious risk of fetal abnormalities, or to save another fetus.
RACGP South Australia Chair, Dr Siân Goodson, said abortion decisions should be made by patients and their healthcare professionals. “Abortion services are essential healthcare, and we strongly oppose these plans,” she said.
The bill follows a previous failed attempt last year by Liberal MP Ben Hood to limit late-term abortions.
In April, the RACGP joined 40 other health organisations calling for affordable and accessible abortion as essential healthcare. Their proposals include:
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National leadership to affirm abortion as essential healthcare
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Fair Medicare funding for healthcare providers
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Supporting training for medical professionals in sexual, reproductive, and maternal health
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Public hospitals providing abortion as part of standard reproductive healthcare
Dr Goodson said the RACGP has long advocated for accessible abortion and contraceptive services and called the proposed bill “a step in the wrong direction.”
Deputy RACGP South Australia Chair Dr Clare Keogh warned against politicising reproductive healthcare. “Abortion after 23 weeks is rare, complex, and deeply personal. These decisions must be made by patients and their doctors, not politicians,” she said.
The ABC reports that Ms Game plans to introduce the bill on Friday and aims to have it voted on before the South Australian state election in March 2026.
(Source: RACGP)
