The Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) welcomes Queensland’s continued protection of children from experimental hormone treatments following a protest against the state’s ban on puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones.
Despite activist campaigning, fewer than 25 protesters attended the rally, underscoring the strong community support for the Government’s precautionary approach to child safety
ACL Queensland Director Rob Norman said, “Queenslanders know children need protection, not experimental hormone treatments. The Government is right to maintain the ban until the risks are clear.” Mr Norman said.
Mr Norman referenced the landmark Cass Review, an independent investigation commissioned by the UK’s National Health Service, which found serious gaps in evidence for using puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones on young people.
The Cass Review made it clear that the evidence base for these drugs is ‘remarkably weak’, with unknown effects on brain development, bone density, and fertility.
Mr Norman said, “Parents and families across Queensland are grateful that their leaders are taking the expert Cass Review seriously and placing child welfare above ideology.”
The ACL urges the Queensland Government to stand firm against political and ideological pressure, uphold the current ban, and ensure that strict scientific and ethical standards guide any medical practice involving minors.
