Find out about the Australian attitude to teenagers' health and pregnancy...

Teenage Pregnancy in Australia

Generally teenagers are encouraged to finish their schooling and studies prior to getting pregnant and the prevailing attitude is that whilst teenage mums should be supported, getting pregnant in your teens is not encouraged.

Abortion in Australia is governed by state law rather than national law. The grounds on which a woman can be permitted an abortion vary from state to state. In every state, abortion is legal to protect the life and health of the woman, however each state has a different definition.

In some states parental consent is required for abortion for girls under 16, while in others parental consent may be required for girls under 18.

There are a number of resources and helplines for pregnant teenagers seeking advice and information: