16 February 2006
RU486 - Statement by federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner Pru Goward
Federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner Pru Goward has welcomed the passage of the Bill through the House of Representatives and congratulates all parliamentarians who contributed to the debate for the forthright expression of their opinions and the decisive manner in which the House agreed to the Bill.
The passage of the Bill ensures that all medications, including medication potentially only of use by women, will now be assessed for use in Australia by the same standards.
"It enables Australian women and their doctors to have a similar range of choice of abortion methods as women in other countries (such as the USA and the UK), which should improve health outcomes for women undergoing terminations," Commissioner Goward said.
The Commissioner has also responded to concerns about the safe administration of the drug.
"It is important that, should the drug be approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, appropriate medical and counselling protocols be developed expeditiously, and training for relevant professionals instituted to ensure proper and safe use of the drug. I have no doubt that this will be the case," Ms Goward said.
"The option of using RU486 to terminate a pregnancy should be able to be considered by a woman on the basis of the best available information and the advice of her doctor. In allowing the possibility of improved choices for women, the passage of this Bill is a tremendous outcome."
The overwhelming percentage of women members who voted in favour of the Bill, in the Senate and the House, demonstrates that women in politics bring a particular point of view that adds weight to the decisions of Parliament.
Commissioner Goward said that women have obviously made a difference in this debate.
Media contact: Paul Oliver on (02) 9284 9880 or 0408 469 347
Last updated 16 February 2006.
