Last week the drug was registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration to allow its not-for-profit drug sponsor Marie Stopes International to market and distribute the pill to a larger number of medical practitioners.

Family Planning Tasmania chief executive Glenn Campbell said anything that made the abortion process easier was welcome.

Mr Campbell said women seeking abortions faced a three-week wait in Tasmania, and many young girls in the later stages of pregnancy were sent to Victoria.

``We are neither a supporter or detractor of pregnancy terminations. Our position is that it should be the choice of the woman,'' Mr Campbell said.

``Having made that choice, she should then be able to have access . ?. ?. the termination services are pretty much based in Hobart, if you live in the North-West you almost have no access.'' 

Pregnancy termination is governed by the Criminal Code, and is only allowed if a woman has seen two doctors who certify that the pregnancy would be more detrimental to proceed than to terminate.

Mr Campbell said an abortion could cost up to $750, with women being left between $280 and $320 out of pocket.

``It is a tough decision, and not one that anyone makes lightly . ?. ?. anything that provides easier access, less stress, less strain and less mental impost and improves that situation for women, has to be better.''

Health Minister Michelle O'Byrne said the use of the pill was a matter between doctor and patient. 

``Where a doctor, in either public or private practice, has received the required training, then this may provide a suitable option for women in a range of locations.''