464-05 Repeal sections of the Criminal Code to ensure that termination of pregnancy is no longer subject to criminal law

Eligibility - Citizens of Queensland
Principal Petitioner:
C Calcutt
C/- 237 Lutwyche Road
WINDSOR QLD 4030
Total Signatures - 855
Sponsoring Member: Veronica Barry MP
Posting Date: 21/04/2005
Tabled Date: 21/04/2005
Referred to: Referred Minister on 22/04/2005
Responded By: Hon Rodney Welford MP on 16/05/2005
TO: The Honourable the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland

This petition of Queensland citizens draws to the attention of the House to the fact that termination of pregnancy remains a criminal offence in Queensland. Under the current legislation, women are at risk of criminal prosecution for accessing a safe medical procedure. Health professionals also remain at risk of prosecution for providing safe abortion services to women. Queensland law on this matter is increasingly out of step with other Australian states and territories. In 2002, the ACT Legislative Assembly removed abortion from the Crimes Act. The majority of public opinion in Queensland has consistently supported by de-criminalisation of abortion.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to repeal sections 224, 225 and 226 of the Criminal Code to ensure that termination of pregnancy is no longer subject to criminal law.