Key facts
- One Nation's proposed baby bonus for Victorian parents is estimated to cost $136 million over four years.
- The party's federal platform pledges to "roll back brutal and extreme abortion law".
- Labor plans to eliminate out-of-pocket abortion costs for up to 16 weeks' gestation, costing $30 million over four years.
- The Coalition has matched Labor's commitment to cover out-of-pocket abortion costs and travel subsidies.
One Nation has proposed a $2,000 baby bonus for new parents in Victoria, a move announced on Friday. The party stated it would not alter the state's abortion laws, despite its federal platform's pledge to "roll back brutal and extreme abortion law".
Colleen Harkin, deputy leader of One Nation in Victoria, announced the plan, which includes removing out-of-pocket costs for pregnant women in the public healthcare system and a $2,000 subsidy for private maternity care. Harkin admitted the estimated $136 million cost over four years was a "ballpark" figure.
This proposal comes a day after both the Labor and Coalition parties agreed to cover out-of-pocket costs for abortion care. Labor's plan, costing $30 million over four years, aims to eliminate costs for medical and surgical abortions up to 16 weeks' gestation, including GP consultations, scans, tests, and medication. The Coalition has pledged to match this commitment.
Anti-abortion activist Joanna Howe criticized the Liberal and National parties for aligning with Labor on abortion policy, urging supporters to back One Nation. Conversely, Women's Health Victoria CEO Sally Hasler welcomed the bipartisan support, stating it ensures abortion remains universally accessible and free.