Late-term abortion bill defeated in SA

Parliament

July 2026 South Australia’s lower house has voted down a bill to restrict access to late-term abortion, defeating it 36 votes to 9 after less than two hours of debate. The legislation, introduced by Family First MP Sarah Game, had earlier passed the upper house by a narrow 10-9 margin with support from One Nation MPs. It would have effectively banned abortions from 25 weeks onwards, except when necessary to save the life of the mother or in cases of life threatening abnormalities. The bill was subject to a conscience vote for Labor and Liberal MPs. Premier Peter Malinauskas and Opposition Leader Ashton Hurn voted in favour but did not speak during the debate. An amendment by Labor MP Tung Ngo added an exemption for life threatening abnormalities. Health Minister Blair Boyer opposed the bill, citing medical advice. Current South Australian law permits abortions after 23 weeks with approval from two doctors if continuing the pregnancy poses a significant risk to the pregnant person’s physical or mental health. The defeated bill would have removed that provision.

Greek Tribune Adelaide, South Australia