The bill should be supported because it ensures that all children, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, are entitled to the same standard of medical care, aligning with the principle of non-discrimination. By codifying this duty, the bill strengthens legal protections for vulnerable children, reinforcing Australia's commitment to international human rights standards. It promotes equality in healthcare access, ensuring that children born alive after a termination are not deprived of life-saving medical interventions.
The bill should be opposed because it may impose additional legal and administrative burdens on healthcare providers, potentially leading to unintended consequences in the management of complex medical situations. There is a risk that the bill could interfere with the professional judgment of healthcare practitioners, which may not always align with the legislative stipulations, thereby impacting the democratic principles of allowing professional autonomy in healthcare. Furthermore, the bill could lead to disparities in how healthcare resources are allocated, as practitioners may feel compelled to prioritize legal compliance over patient-centered care [Judgment].
2022-11-30
Before Senate
CANAVAN, Sen Matthew; ANTIC, Sen Alex; BABET, Sen Ralph
Unspecified
Discrimination / Human Rights, Healthcare, Legal Principles