After 12-hours of debate, an amendment was passed in state parliament making it illegal for protesters to harass or film women entering or exiting centres that provide abortions. The new laws also restrict anyone impeding access to a footpath, roadway or vehicle within the zone. 

Anyone who breached the 150-metre safe access zone could face fines or jail time for repeat offences. 

The law, labelled a “landmark moment” by women’s rights advocates, was passed by 30 Upper House MPs in Spring Street early Friday.

Mr Purcell said his decision to not support it was about the importance of free speech and little to do with abortion. 

He said politicians needed to be careful they didn’t limit people’s right to have their say and free speech was integral to the democratic process.

He said he had concerns for women being harassed and there needed to be a way for them to access medical services without being approached by protesters.

Mr Purcell said he had received hundreds, if not thousands of calls, emails and tweets from people on all sides of the debate. “It came down to my belief in free speech and the right to demonstrate and I think there is a need to protect it,” he said.

Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West Executive Officer Emily Lee-Ack said the law was long overdue and a “landmark moment” in Victorian history.

“The passage of this Bill represents the ‘unfinished business’ of abortion law reform in 2008,” she said. “We have long advocated for the rights of women to access a lawful service without intimidation, fear or harassment.

“Reproductive health clinics provide a range of services and are often accessed in times of high stress for women and their families, for a variety of reasons.

“The indiscriminate targeting of these women has caused significant distress over many years.”