UPDATE: Queensland’s controversial ban on puberty blockers faces a renewed legal challenge as the transgender community pledges to fight for “life-affirming health care.” Just hours after a landmark court ruling overturned the ban, the Queensland government reinstated it, igniting outrage and accusations of using children as “political footballs.”
The swift reinstatement of the ban on hormone therapies for transgender youth was announced late on Tuesday evening by Health Minister Tim Nicholls. This decision follows a ruling by Justice Peter Callaghan, who found that Queensland Health executives were given only 22 minutes to consider the directive. The community’s brief moment of hope after the Supreme Court’s decision in Brisbane quickly transformed into disappointment.
Ren Shike of the LGBTI Legal Service stated, “We will continue to explore all legal options on behalf of our clients.” The service represents a trans teen’s mother who initiated the historic challenge against the Liberal National government after the initial halt on hormone treatments in January 2023. Shike emphasized, “Our kids are not political footballs.”
Minister Nicholls defended the ban, proclaiming the need to weigh public interest against human rights concerns. “In all instances, it’s a case of weighing up competing rights and interests of parents to understand what their children are asking and seeking,” he said. The ban will remain until the end of January 2024 as the government awaits a review of treatment protocols due by November 2023.
Queensland was the first Australian state to prohibit hormone treatments for children diagnosed with gender dysphoria, following claims that puberty blockers had been administered to children as young as 12 without proper authorization. Under the current ban, new patients under 18 cannot access hormone therapies while the government reviews the efficacy of these treatments.
“This is an area where people hold strong views, understandably,” Nicholls commented. “What I have sought to do as the health minister is to ensure that we have an evidence-based review.” He asserted that the decision-making process adhered to legislative guidelines intended to protect public interest.
Premier David Crisafulli supported the reinstatement of the ban, asserting that community safety must be the primary concern. “The court has made a ruling about the process. The minister listened to it, he accepted it, and he charted an alternative,” Crisafulli stated, emphasizing that his focus remains on the safety of children.
However, Equality Australia criticized the government’s actions, stating that the policy has already inflicted significant harm. Legal Director Heather Corkhill warned that the government might face further legal repercussions due to its decision. Opposition Leader Steven Miles condemned the move, arguing that vulnerable young Queenslanders deserve to have their voices heard and should receive healthcare deemed appropriate by their medical professionals.
As the situation unfolds, the LGBTI Legal Service remains resolute in its pursuit of justice for transgender youth, with plans to challenge the ban through all available legal avenues. The community’s fight for access to essential healthcare continues, marking a significant chapter in the ongoing struggle for transgender rights in Australia.
For immediate support, individuals can contact Lifeline at 13 11 14, Fullstop Australia at 1800 385 578, or Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 for those aged 5 to 25.
