The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) supports the introduction of the Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019 which seeks to decriminalise abortion in New South Wales.
"New South Wales is the last remaining state in the country where women can be criminalised for their reproductive rights," said Australian College of Nursing CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN.
"The Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019 will ensure that a woman who intends on making this decision will not be committing an offence under the state's criminal code. Regulation of the procedure will mean that patients are treated safely and lawfully.
"Additionally, it will mean health practitioners, such as nurses and doctors, will not be at risk of being incarcerated for supporting women in their choices regarding their reproductive system. As key patient advocates, nurses have a pivotal role in protecting women and informing them of their options.
"ACN acknowledges the initiative of Independent Alex Greenwich, MP as well as the grassroots campaign led by the Women's Electoral Lobby Round Table on Abortion Law Reform."
