Aussie anti-abortion protesters forced 150 meters away from clinics under new laws

Australian pro-life campaigners will no longer be able to camp outside abortion clinics under new legislation passed in Victorian parliament.

The bill, which will force protestors at least 150 meters away from termination centres, passed Victoria's Upper House, the Legislative Council, on Friday morning without any amendment.

Pro-life protesters have been known to harass, threaten and film women entering abortion clinics, but the new 150-meter "buffer zone" will prevent them from coming into direct contact with patients.

Victoria's Health Minister Jill Hennessy said the changes were "long overdue" and would make what is already a harrowing experience for women less upsetting.

"Women will no longer be able to be harassed and intimidated around abortion clinics," Hennessy said in a a statement.

The changes were originally suggested by Sex Party Victorian senator Fiona Patten and passed into law after 12 hours of fierce debate.

Hennessy said those flouting the law would face fines and if caught repeatedly, possible jail time.

"No doubt there will be people trying to test the law," Hennessy said.

"We'll be working with Victoria Police and all service providers to make sure that we get this law enforced and women are able to go about their lawful business without being the subject of harassment and intimidation."

Pro-life campaigners have pushed back against new law in recent months, saying it would violate their freedom of speech and democratic right to protest. Endit