RACGP’s Concerns Over Legislative Interference
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has expressed strong concerns about a new abortion bill expected to be introduced in the South Australian Parliament in early June 2026. Healthcare professionals are alarmed by this proposed legislation.
Dr Clare Keogh, Deputy Chair of RACGP SA, emphasised the importance of keeping decisions about pregnancy between individuals and their healthcare teams. She stated, “Abortion care is healthcare. These are deeply personal decisions that should be made by individuals in consultation with their GP and trusted health professionals.”
According to the RACGP, any legislative changes that restrict reproductive healthcare threaten to undermine evidence-based care and patient autonomy. Dr Keogh remarked, “General practitioners are often the first point of contact for patients navigating complex and sensitive decisions about pregnancy.”
RACGP’s Call for Action
RACGP SA urges Members of the Legislative Council to prioritise the health, safety, and autonomy of South Australians. The organisation stands with the SA Abortion Action Coalition and other health providers in advocating for reproductive rights.
Dr Keogh warned that restricting abortion access does not prevent individuals from seeking care, but rather makes it less safe. She stated, “We know that restricting access to abortion does not stop people from seeking care, it only makes it harder and less safe.”
The proposed bill reflects broader concerns voiced by clinicians and public health organisations about efforts to limit access to reproductive healthcare in South Australia. This trend has been noted across the country, and RACGP SA continues to advocate for the protection of reproductive rights and access to safe care for all Australians.
RACGP SA has called on all parliamentarians to respect the role of medical professionals and ensure that South Australians can continue to access safe, appropriate reproductive healthcare. Dr Keogh reiterated, “Healthcare policy must be guided by clinical evidence and patient wellbeing, not ideology.”
The college has highlighted that late-term abortion is already governed by robust laws that protect the decision between a patient and two skilled doctors. RACGP SA aims to safeguard these existing practices against legislative interference.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:49 am
