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Abortion laws in Western Australia allow access to care up to 23 weeks of pregnancy under the Public Health Act 2016, updated by the Abortion Legislation Reform Act 2023 (effective March 2024). No referral is required, counselling is not mandatory, and care can be provided by GPs, nurse practitioners, and endorsed midwives — including at Athena Women’s Clinic in Bentley, Perth.
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can bring up a lot of questions. Abortion laws in Western Australia are regulated by clear public health legislation — understanding them helps you feel more informed and confident about your options.
Below, we walk through the current laws, what changed under the 2023 reforms, and how Athena Women’s Clinic in Bentley can support you through this process.
Yes. The Public Health Act 2016 now governs abortion in WA, following reforms under the Abortion Legislation Reform Act 2023. As a result, abortion is no longer part of the Criminal Code, and accessing this care is now treated as standard women’s healthcare.
The reforms came into effect in March 2024. They reduced the number of health practitioners required for most abortions from two to one, and removed the requirement for mandatory counselling beforehand.
Under current WA abortion law, you can request a termination up to 23 weeks of pregnancy. Beyond this point, an abortion may still be possible, but requires additional clinical assessment in line with the legislation.
Medical abortion uses two medications taken primarily at home after an in-clinic consultation, while surgical abortion is a short procedure performed at a clinic or hospital under anaesthetic. Both may be available depending on gestation. Here is a summary:
| Factor | Medical Abortion (MS-2 Step) | Surgical Abortion |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Two medications — taken at home after an in-clinic consultation | A brief clinical procedure under local or general anaesthetic |
| Available up to | 9 weeks (63 days) gestation | Up to 23 weeks (with appropriate clinical assessment) |
| Where it happens | Mostly at home after an in-clinic appointment | At a clinic or hospital |
| Recovery | Cramping and bleeding over several days, similar to a heavy period | Generally shorter physical recovery |
| Available at Athena | Yes — Dr. Soma is a registered MS-2 Step prescriber | Referral provided if required |
A medical abortion using MS-2 Step typically spans one to two days between the two medications, with bleeding continuing for several days afterward. The first tablet (mifepristone) is taken at the clinic; the second (misoprostol) is taken at home 24 to 48 hours later. A follow-up consultation or ultrasound is recommended 1 to 2 weeks after to confirm everything is complete.
MS-2 Step is TGA-authorised up to nine weeks (63 days) gestation. The right option depends on how far along you are, which your doctor can confirm with a consultation and ultrasound.
Western Australia has safe access zone laws in place. A protected zone applies around any premises providing abortion services — within this zone, harassment, intimidation, or obstruction is a legal offence. These laws protect your privacy and safety when attending an appointment.
Your appointment is confidential. Your medical termination assessment is subject to standard medical confidentiality, as with all GP consultations. Information is only shared with other treating practitioners with your consent.
The Abortion Legislation Reform Act 2023 made several key changes, effective March 2024:
In some circumstances, yes. An initial telehealth consultation may be possible for early medical abortion, subject to clinical eligibility. However, an in-person visit is usually required to confirm gestation via ultrasound before medication can be safely prescribed. Call Athena Women’s Clinic on (08) 6116 1285 to discuss your circumstances.
At Athena Women’s Clinic, your first appointment is a thorough, confidential consultation. Our GP will review your medical history, confirm your pregnancy with an in-clinic ultrasound, and walk through all available options based on your gestation and circumstances.
Our team includes Dr. Soma — a qualified GP Obstetrician and registered MS-2 Step prescriber — meaning medical termination care can be managed within our clinic from assessment through to follow-up. Our team can also discuss contraception options to support your ongoing wellbeing.
The right pathway depends on your gestation, health history, and individual circumstances. Here is what to expect:
All appointments are private, respectful, and non-judgmental. You are welcome to bring a support person.
No. You do not need a referral to access a medical termination in Western Australia. Contact Athena Women’s Clinic directly on (08) 6116 1285 to arrange your assessment. A referral is welcome but never required.
Under the Public Health Act 2016 (updated March 2024), you can request an abortion up to 23 weeks of pregnancy in Western Australia. Beyond 23 weeks, additional clinical assessment is required. For medical abortion using MS-2 Step, TGA authorises use up to 9 weeks (63 days) gestation.
No. Counselling is no longer a mandatory legal requirement before an abortion in WA under the Abortion Legislation Reform Act 2023. It is available if you want it, but always your choice — never an obligation.
Under the updated WA laws, GPs, nurse practitioners, and endorsed midwives can all prescribe MS-2 Step within their scope of practice. At Athena Women’s Clinic, Dr. Soma is a registered MS-2 Step prescriber.
Medical abortion uses two medications taken primarily at home after an in-clinic consultation, and is available up to 9 weeks gestation. Surgical abortion is a short procedure performed at a clinic or hospital under anaesthetic, and is available up to 23 weeks with appropriate clinical assessment.
A medical abortion using MS-2 Step typically spans one to two days between the two medications. The first tablet (mifepristone) is taken at the clinic; the second (misoprostol) is taken at home 24 to 48 hours later. Bleeding continues for several days afterward. A follow-up is recommended 1 to 2 weeks after.
If you are considering your options or want to know more about abortion laws in Western Australia and medical termination of pregnancy, Athena Women’s Clinic provides private, respectful care in a supportive environment. View our Medical Termination of Pregnancy page for full details.
Call us on (08) 6116 1285 or visit our Contact Us page to book your appointment.
If you have a referral or anticipate needing an ultrasound in Perth, please reach out to our team to arrange your booking.
Call us at (08) 6116 1285 or email reception@athenawomensclinic.com.au
