Protesters angry at Vic abortion law

Anti-abortion protesters are angry at a new ban that makes it illegal for them to picket within 150 metres of clinics in Victoria.

The Fertility Control Clinic, in East Melbourne.

A ban on protesters within 150 metres of abortion clinics has become law in Victoria. (AAP)

Anti-abortion protesters are angry about being banned from going within 150 metres of abortion clinics in Victoria.

But the state government says the new law, which comes into effect next July, will protect women from intimidation and abuse.

The bill passed early on Friday, meaning it will be illegal to film people without their consent or block access to footpaths, roads and vehicles within zone around GP clinics, hospitals and other health services offering abortions.

The Victorian government says for too long women getting abortions have been subject to verbal and psychological abuse designed to discourage them.

"Women have a right to medical privacy and the right to access a legal health service without harassment or intimidation," Health Minister Jill Hennessy said.

The bill was first introduced by Sex Party MP Fiona Patten before being co-opted by the government.

It was voted into law 31 to eight by the state's Upper House.

Anti-abortion group The Right to Life have labelled the reform a tragedy and think the 150 metre exclusion zone is an extreme measure.

The group's president Margaret Tighe said in a statement that the government was wrong to think the ban would stop people talking about abortion.

"People will not remain silent in the face of so much killing of human life," she said.

Women's health advocates are overjoyed the ban will prevent patients and staff from being exposed to "intimidating, disrespectful and obstructive behaviour".

"This legislation addresses a longstanding issue," Women's Health executive director Rita Butera said.


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Source: AAP


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Protesters angry at Vic abortion law | SBS News