An inquiry conducted by the Australian Senate on reproductive health is set to recommend enhanced accessibility of abortion services at public hospitals.
The inquiry has identified disparities in the provision of sexual health care services.
The Senate community affairs committee, chaired by Senator Janet Rice, will present its report on Thursday. It will propose the Albanese government collaborate with states and territories to improve access to abortion services in public hospitals.
The inquiry is expected to recommend health services be required to establish a direct and immediate pathway for women seeking a termination to address the issue of regional and rural women’s access to reproductive healthcare.
The inquiry will also recommend a national telephone advisory service be established to address questions about contraception, pregnancy options, including abortion, and sexual health.
AUDIO: UOWTV reporter Isabel Milligan spoke with the University of Wollongong’s Pro-Choice Group president, and Miranda Batchelor from the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre, who said: “Accessing an abortion is unacceptably difficult with multiple unnecessary steps involved.”