This article was originally published by Transcend Australia. You can find the original article here.
Recent changes at both state and federal levels are impacting access to gender-affirming care for young people in Australia.
In Queensland, the government has announced a temporary pause on new patient access to puberty blockers and hormone therapy while it conducts a review of existing care models. This has raised concerns, as gender-affirming care is supported by extensive medical research as being safe and effective.
The details of how the review will be conducted are still unclear, including how much input will be taken from trans, non-binary, and gender diverse people and experts in clinical care of trans youth. This pause will remain until the review is complete and the government considers its findings.
At the national level, the Australian Government has commissioned a review of the Australian Standards of Care and Treatment Guidelines for Trans and Gender Diverse Children and Adolescents, led by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). This review aims to ensure that clinical guidelines are informed by the latest scientific evidence and best practices, with input from experts and lived experience. Interim advice on the use of puberty blockers is expected by mid-2026.
What This Means for Young People and Families
- Access to care remains available in most states and territories outside Queensland.
- The NHMRC review is not an inquiry—it follows Australia’s standard process for updating medical guidelines, ensuring gender-affirming care remains evidence-based.
- Transcend Australia, AusPATH and LGBTIQ+ Health Australia are involved, advocating for the voices of young people, families, and healthcare professionals to be included.
We know that these changes may create uncertainty. Transcend Australia, AusPATH and LGBTIQ+ are committed to ensuring that trans and gender-diverse young people continue to have access to safe, evidence-based healthcare.
For more details, read our full fact sheet and stay informed through trusted sources like LHA (LGBTIQ+ Health Australia) and AusPATH (Australian Professional Association for Trans Health).
