All major medical organisations, including the Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), the Australian Medical Association, and the College of Midwives, have opposed the bill.
Abortion Statistics in South Australia
The vast majority (more than 90%) of abortions are performed in the first trimester. According to SA Health data from 2023, fewer than 1% (47 cases) occurred after 23 weeks' gestation.
Of these 47 terminations, 37 were conducted for the physical or mental health of the mother, and 10 were for fetal anomalies, SA Health has stated.
In the first 18 months after the legislation was implemented, there were fewer than five terminations performed after 27 weeks and no terminations after 29 weeks.
Medical Experts Weigh In
RANZCOG released a statement emphasising that any abortion conducted at such a late stage is due to life-limiting conditions of the fetus or serious threats to the pregnant woman's health and life. It also requires the approval of two doctors.
