This article was originally published by QNews. You can find the original article here.
Tony Abbott is among more than 100 public figures to sign an open letter demanding the federal government hold an urgent national inquiry into gender treatments for people under 18 years.
The letter calls for a pause on all medical gender transitions for anyone under 18 until an independent Australian inquiry is complete.
It comes as US President Donald Trump signed an executive order restricting gender transitions for anyone younger than 19.
Earlier this week, the Queensland state government also announced an immediate “pause” on any new patients under 18 from accessing puberty blockers and hormone treatments in the state’s health system.
Women’s Forum CEO Rachael Wong drafted the letter and said Trump’s order was “excellent” and urged the Australian government to follow its lead.
Giggle for Girls’ Sall Grover and Liberal Senator Claire Chandler are among the signatories.
Just.Equal responds
In response to the open letter, Just.Equal spokesperson Rodney Croome called on the federal government to “respect the science” and “ignore the prejudice”.
“This is an initiative of an anti-trans activist group, not a medical organisation, and most of the signatories are known opponents of trans inclusion,” he said.
“The fact no reputable medical organisations have signed this statement is because the Australian medical consensus is that gender affirming care is the right approach.
“Allow young trans people and their families and doctors to make important medical decisions free from Government meddling.”
If you need someone to talk to, help is available from QLife on 1800 184 527 or at QLife.org.au.
Lifeline 13 11 14
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
beyondblue 1300 22 4636.
