We took to the streets of Sydney to find out what local youth thought about the bill proposing safe access zones around Australian abortion clinics.
“Being able to access health clinics that provide important services related to sexual health care without being harassed, intimidated or threatened is incredibly important. Although I understand that some object to these laws on freedom of speech grounds, Australia permits laws that restrict speech so long as the laws are proportionate and reasonable. Preventing harassment of women at a vulnerable time in their lives seems like a good enough reason to me.”
– Kirsty Gan, 25, lawyer, Camperdown
“I’m in favour of the safe access bill because I think about the emotional wellbeing of women who feel they need or want to get an abortion or even just want to go and check out the abortion clinic. And I think that 150 meters outside the clinic is not the right place. Go elsewhere to do it, have your rallies or campaigning where it is more appropriate.”
– Hugo Webster, 23, waiter, Coogee
“I am extremely in favour of it, because there are stupid protesters who stand outside and harass these women. It’s upsetting and can impact mental health so dramatically. Abortion is already traumatic enough, protestors just heighten the anxiety and it’s just cruel. It’s so important to keep the abortion process protected. The other thing with 150m rule is that people can’t take photos without consent, it’s also so important to allow these women to have space where they can’t be witnessed walking in and out of the clinic.”
– Bronie Condon, 20, UNSW student, Kensington
“I hadn’t heard of safe access zones until just now, but I would’ve thought that it’s something that’s already in place. I’m really shocked that it isn’t already. I bet that the same people protesting are the ones that would be criticizing teen pregnancy and you can’t be against both! It’s so hypocritical. Women have a right to make choices about their bodies. It’s nobody else’s business.”
– Kieren Liu, 20, UNSW student, Kensington
