Queensland have become the first state in Australia to ban the practice of LGBTQ+ conversion therapy. Under new legislation passed by the Queensland Government, those who participate in the inhumane practice could be jailed for up to 18 months if the victim is a minor.
The new law bans healthcare professionals from attempting to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity through the use of aversion therapy, hypnotherapy, or psychoanalysis.
Any Queensland citizen found attempting to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity through conversion therapy could now face up to 18 months in jail.
The legislation passed with the support of Labour and the Greens, 47 votes to 41.
QLD Health Minister: “No treatment or practice can change a person’s sexual attraction or experience of gender.” Providers found using “conversion” methods can face up to 18 months in prison.
Voting for: Labor, Greens. Against: LNP, Katter Party, One Nation.
Onya, Queensland. https://t.co/n0lW157BVM
— Benjamin Law 羅旭能 (@mrbenjaminlaw) August 13, 2020
The legislation was proposed in November 2019 following a 2018 Human Rights Law Centre report revealing the harmful implications caused by the practices. The report interviewed 15 survivors of conversion therapy and found that there were at least 10 organisations practising it in Australia at the time.
Queensland Health Minister Steven Miles spoke in front of parliament on Thursday, stating that conversion therapy was “highly destructive and unethical” and that “being LGBTIQ is not an affliction or disease that requires medical treatment.”
A similar bill outlaw the practice on minors has been submitted to the ACT legislative assembly, with the Victorian government continuing discussions about a future bill.
If you are seeking support, you can contact QLife on 1800 184 527 or visit their website qlife.org.au.
Great news…but damn….this should happen in every state & territory.
— It’s just a jump to the left… (@HymieHop) August 13, 2020
