Public Health Association - QLD branch

PHAA actively advocates on a number of  public health issues.  Currently, one of PHAA-QLD main initiatives is advocating for a change in Queensland abortion laws.

Decriminalise abortion in queensland.  Make it clear.  Make it certain. Make it now

PHAA-QLD strongly believes that abortion is a health issue, NOT a criminal issue.  It is a woman's basic right to have available the information necessary to make informed decisions about her health, and the capactiy to act on those decisions.

PHAA supports women's health and human rights to make their own decisions about their health. And that includes the very personal choice of abortion.

Currently in Queensland, it is illegal to obtain an abortion, and the law is unclear as to the lawfulness of the performance of an abortion by a doctor.  This situation prevents women from being able to make a decision for their own health, therefore prevents access to safe and affordable abortion services including pre- and post-abortion counselling, free from judgement or threat of prosecution.

We strongly believe that criminal law is an inappropriate vehicle - both in principle and practice - for regulating the provision of abortion.

We are advocating that all reference to abortion should be removed from all Queensland criminal law and that abortion should be regulated, as are all other medical services, under health care legislation.

PHAA is a working member of ProChoice Queensland, to decriminalise abortion and ensure abortion is regulated under health law, not Queensland Criminal code. 

To find out more information 

Refer to the ProChoice QLD website http://www.prochoiceqld.org.au/

Refer to the following PHAA policies and the Natioanl website: http://www.phaa.net.au/

How can you get involved?

• Join PHAA and become involved in this advocacy.
• Send a letter to your local member of parliament.