With the passing of the Public Health Amendment (Safe Access to Reproductive Health Clinics) Bill 2018, women seeking reproductive medical advice and treatment have finally gained some protection from harassment and shaming. Some of the arguments against the bill were reminiscent of scenes from The Handmaid's Tale, and the suggestion that women seeking treatment at a medical centre don't know their own minds is truly disturbing. Despite what its critics said, this bill is not about gagging free speech, or denying people's right to protest. It is about a safe access zone for women looking after their health. The protection they receive from this bill is necessary and to be welcomed.
See my speech in support of the bill here.