Reality: This statement is completely untrue and unfounded. Each state and territory has their own laws and regulations that determine gestational and other limits that are placed on the provision of abortion. To say that an announcement about funding public health access to abortions will result in terminations up to 37 weeks for any reason is nonsensical.
In terms of second and third trimester abortions, there are a number of reasons that someone may access them. Data from our Choice Fund that assists women to access abortions up to 24 weeks, has shown that the type of reasons for abortions include fetal anomalies, health issues and complex psychosocial issues including family violence and sexual assault.
Third trimester abortions are incredibly rare and for exceptional medical reasons. Further, most abortions are performed in the first trimester (under 12 weeks), and third trimester abortions are very rare and would only be performed for exceptional circumstances.