Abortion has been decriminalised in Queensland after two days of debate in state parliament.
Last night, the laws were eventually passed by 50 votes to 41. Under the changes, abortion will be made a health issue—allowing women to terminate pregnancies up to 22 weeks’ gestation. Terminations after 22 weeks will be allowed with the approval of two independent doctors.
Safe zones around clinics and medical facilities will also be established to prevent staff and patients from being harassed by anti-abortion activists.