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Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners
Do minors require parental consent in order to have an abortion?
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Children by Choice is a Brisbane based not-for-profit organisation providing pro-choice, all-options counselling, information and referrals Queensland-wide, for women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. We provide face-to … View Profile
No, a legal precedent (a rule established by a court) set by the Fraser Competence Ruling means that young women under the age of 16 years may legally seek medical treatment (including termination and contraception) without parental/guardian consent. Young women must be able to show sufficient maturity and understanding in relation to the procedure, often refered to as Gillick Competence.
However, it should be noted that provision of the procedure is at the discretion of the performing doctor and abortion access varies across Australia.
In Queensland, abortion providers prefer that young women under the age of 16 years have parental consent or are accompanied by their parent or guardian when accessing a termination. Queensland women can contact Children by Choice 07 3357 5177 or 18000 177 725 (Outside Brisbane) or visit www.childrenbychoice.org.au for more information.
For more information regarding your state or territory visit http://familyplanningallianceaustralia.org.au/services/ for your contacts for your local family planning service.
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