High price to be paid if abortion reform bid fails

Not only are such claims insulting and completely clueless about the way women approach the crisis of unplanned pregnancy, they bear no basis in fact.

The ACT repealed abortion from the criminal code in 2002 and has reported no change in procedure rates, while countries where abortion is legal and accessible, like Belgium and the Netherlands, enjoy some of the lowest rates in the world.

Like it or not, the position politicians and the public take on repeal reflects their view of women as moral decision-makers. Those in favour trust women’s judgment on questions concerning their own bodies and lives, while those against don’t.

Whatever your view, the time to express it - to Bracks, Brumby, Pike and most importantly your own MP - is now. Rest assured Margaret Tighe’s crew will.