Alongside our sector partners, Birth for Humankind are proud signatories of this important joint statement on abortion access – a vital call to action ahead of the upcoming federal election.
Advocacy for equitable access to essential abortion services and respectful care is core to our work and values.
BFH’s work is grounded in the principles of reproductive justice and a belief that every person has the right to choose the pregnancy outcome and experience that’s right for them. That means, regardless of whether people go through pregnancy and birth or an abortion, they get full access to all the information they need to make an informed decision.
We believe it’s essential to break down the stigma around abortion – a conversation we need to be having a national level. The statement calls for government leadership and investment in abortion care, including support services and staffing that ensures it is accessible and affordable for all.
Currently, BFH supports a small number of people through mid-term abortions in partnership with the Royal Women’s Hospital’s Birth Choices program – but we know there is far greater need than we have the capacity to support.
We want to see greater investment in social support services for people who are socially isolated or lacking support through abortions – including a funded doula support model. This call is backed by both international evidence and our own program experience, which shows the profound impact this kind of support can have on people’s experiences, health, and wellbeing.
Read the full statement here
