PERTH, WA [August 4, 2025] – Australian Christians Party Leader, Maryka Groenewald MLC, has lodged a formal Freedom of Information request following disturbing revelations that women who undergo late-term abortions may be eligible for the federal government’s Stillborn Baby Payment.
“This is extremely worrying,” said Maryka Groenewald MLC,
“A letter from Minister Katy Gallagher confirms that women who deliberately abort their babies after 20 weeks may still qualify for a Stillborn Baby Payment,
“This is not a fringe allegation—it’s confirmed in writing by the Minister herself,
“Taxpayers should not be footing the bill for procedures that intentionally end innocent human lives,
“What’s worse is that Christian and pro-life Australians may now be unknowingly subsidising these late-term abortions through government payments,
“I’ve lodged a Freedom of Information request to Services Australia to confirm how many of these payments have been made in such cases,
“I have also asked whether the Department distinguishes between natural stillbirth and intentional late-term abortion when assessing eligibility,
“If there is no mechanism to differentiate, this is a serious failure of both policy and morality,
“I have further asked whether Paid Parental Leave is being offered in such cases, which would only deepen the outrage,
“The public deserves clear answers. This government cannot be allowed to sweep this under the rug,
“I call on the Department of Communities and Services Australia to act swiftly and transparently in releasing this information,
“This is about integrity, accountability, and respect for life,” Groenewald concluded.
