Anti-abortion bill fails in South Australia; Qantas Sydney-London flights delayed to 2027

An attempt to re-criminalize late-term abortions in South Australia has been blocked after the bill failed to pass the lower house. The legislation had previously passed the state's upper house by a single vote, with support from three newly elected One Nation MLCs. MLC Sarah Game introduced the bill, which was developed with anti-abortion activist Joanna Howe.

Major medical organizations, including the Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (Ranzcog), the Australian Medical Association, and the College of Midwives, had opposed the bill. SA Health data indicates that abortions after 23 weeks' gestation are rare, with fewer than 1% of procedures occurring at this stage in 2023. Of the 47 terminations performed after 23 weeks, 37 were for the mother's health and 10 for fetal anomalies. Ranzcog clarified that any abortion conducted at such a late stage is due to life-limiting fetal conditions or serious threats to the pregnant woman's health, requiring approval from two doctors.

“

Of these 47 terminations, 37 were conducted for the physical or mental health of the mother, and 10 were for fetal anomalies.

The bill initially proposed banning all abortions from 25 weeks, with only a narrow exemption for the likelihood of maternal death. An amendment later included exemptions for severe fetal abnormalities. Despite support from Premier Peter Malinauskas and Opposition Leader Ashton Hurn, the bill ultimately failed in the lower house.

In separate news, Qantas has announced further delays to its highly anticipated non-stop Sydney-London flights. The service, part of Project Sunrise, is now scheduled to launch in October 2027. This latest delay is attributed to ongoing issues with the delivery of the specially manufactured Airbus A350 aircraft, which are essential for the ultra-long-haul route. The project, which aims to cut travel time significantly, has faced multiple setbacks since its inception, including a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“

Any abortion conducted at this stage is due to the life-limiting condition of the fetus and, or, serious threats to the pregnant woman’s health and life. It also requires the approval of two doctors.