No conscience vote
The ALP, the Liberal Party, the Australian Democrats and the Australian Greens all allow their members a conscience vote on abortion, regardless of the policy of the party.
The Democratic Socialist Party has a clear policy in favour of abortion rights, and is the only party that does not allow a conscience vote on the issue. A woman's right to choose is regarded as fundamental to her ability to control her own life, fundamental to her ability to exercise choice in all aspects of her life and a fundamental democratic right.
Spokesperson Pat Brewer told 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳ Weekly, "It must be the sole right of each woman to decide whether or not to prevent or terminate pregnancy. All anti-abortion laws should be repealed. Abortion should be available to all on demand regardless of age, in the venue of their choice — in a specialist clinic or within the public hospital system, with information and support services available and with the cost fully covered by the health-care system.
"Complementary to these demands is the need for safe, reliable contraceptives and sex education. Also key to women's right to choose is the right to bear children if a woman so chooses and adequate services before, during and after the birth of a child."
The DSP opposes non-consensual sterilisation, as well as medical and drug experimentation on women without their full, informed consent.