In a move towards further improving access to abortion and contraception services, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government has expanded its accessible abortions scheme to more Canberra locations.
The ACT Government initiative to provide no-cost abortion care for all ACT residents – and include long-acting reversible contraception at the same time – is nation-leading, ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their financial situation, can access these crucial services.
Greg Johnson, Managing Director at MSI Australia, welcomed the move.
“We are very pleased to have supported the ACT Government and Women’s Health Matters in establishing no-cost access for Canberrans and ACT residents to high-quality medical and surgical abortion and contraception services,” he said.
“We commenced the no-cost service for ACT residents at our Canberra clinic in April 2023 when the ACT Government first announced the accessible abortions scheme and we are very supportive of the expansion of medical abortion access to include GP practices announced today.”
“Every day, we see women and pregnant people at our Canberra clinic who are immensely grateful that medical and surgical abortion services are not just accessible in Canberra, but financially supported by the ACT Government.
“It’s clear that when governments fund abortion care, we make a genuine positive impact on the wellbeing of many people and communities.”
Philip Goldstone, Medical Director at MSI Australia, said it was important women and pregnant people had reproductive choice.
“This initiative has been life-changing for women and pregnant people in the ACT,” he said.
“The impact of this expansion cannot be overstated. Every day, we see the relief and gratitude in the faces of those we care for, knowing they can access necessary care safely and freely.
“With the government’s support, we’re not just providing care, we’re giving women and pregnant people, including those on temporary visas, the agency to control their own health and futures.”
MSI Australia will continue to provide services funded by the ACT Government including no-cost medical abortions up to nine weeks, and surgical abortions up to 16 weeks gestation. Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are also available at no cost at the time of abortion.
Women and pregnant people can book with the MSI Canberra Clinic by phoning 1300 007 303.
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For further information contact Anna Jabour on 0428 396 391.
MSI Australia is the only national not-for-profit provider of sexual and reproductive health services including permanent and long-acting reversible contraception and abortion care. For more information on our clinic network visit msiaustralia.org.au