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The Present laws

The grounds for abortions are in the Crimes Act 1961 and amendments

Serious danger to the life or to the physical or mental health of the mother.
Risk that the child would be severely handicapped, physically or mentally.
Pregnancy as a result of incest or unlawful sex with a guardian.
Severe mental subnormality of the mother.



Factors which can be taken into account but which are not grounds in themselves

Extremes of age.
Sexual violation (previously “rape”).



After 20 weeks gestation the grounds are more strict

To save the life of the mother.
To prevent serious permanent injury to the physical or mental health of the mother.

For links to the relevant legislation, visit our legislation page.

ALRANZ believes that abortion is a health matter, not a crime, and the grounds for abortion in the crimes act should be repealed.