Find out more information about no cost abortion in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) by visiting www.mypregnancyoptionsact.org.au or downloading our Simple Guide to Free ACT Abortion Services.
You can also read some frequently asked questions about no cost abortion services in the ACT below.
What is an abortion?
Abortion is a safe and common medical procedure to end a pregnancy.
There are two types of abortion – surgical and medication abortion. The type of abortion you might get will depend on your gestation.
Gestation means the amount of time you’ve been pregnant and is measured in weeks and days from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Is abortion legal in the ACT?
Yes. In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) it is legal to end a pregnancy with an abortion at any gestation.
Is abortion free?
Abortion is free at specific general practices (GPs) and health services if you live, work or study in the ACT.
Abortion is free even if you are an international student or on a temporary visa. You do not need to have a Medicare card.
You will need to show some proof that you live, work or study in the ACT. This could include a driver’s licence or a recent bill with your name on it showing your ACT address.
If you do not live, work or study in the ACT, you can still have an abortion at a service in Canberra, but it will not be free.
How do I access free abortion services in the ACT?
If you are considering an abortion, the following information will guide you through each step, from decision-making to post-abortion support.
Deciding to have abortion
If you’re unsure whether you’d like to have an abortion, pregnancy options counselling is available to support you in making the best choice for yourself.
If you are up to 6 weeks gestation
Schedule an appointment: Contact one of the general practices or abortion clinics listed here.
Initial tests: You may be referred for a blood test or ultrasound to confirm the gestation and determine the type of abortion—medication or surgical. These services are available at no cost from providers listed here.
Medication abortion: If a medication abortion is suitable, your doctor will prescribe MS-2 Step. You can fill this prescription for free at any of the pharmacies listed here.
If you are between 6 and 16 weeks gestation
You may need a surgical abortion. Please call one of the abortion clinics listed here to schedule an appointment.
If you are 16 weeks gestation and over
You may need a referral to a specialised service. Contact a general practice or abortion clinic from the list here to schedule an appointment.
If you are 16 weeks gestation and over
You may need a referral to a specialised service. Contact a general practice or abortion clinic from the list here to schedule an appointment.
After having an abortion
If you would like post-abortion counselling support or wish to discuss post-abortion contraception, providers listed here can help. General practices on the list can prescribe free post-abortion long-acting reversible contraception options.
Visit www.mypregnancyoptionsact.org.au to find out more about your pregnancy, abortion and contraception options in the ACT.
