The Australian Christian Lobby today has called on the McGowan Government to ensure that its proposed LGBT conversion laws do not prevent doctors, psychologist and counsellors and faith groups from providing patient led, evidence based, proven therapy for people struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Peter Abetz, the WA State Director of the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) urged the government not to emulate the mistakes of the Andrews government in drafting the legislation.
Abetz said, “The Victorian legislation was opposed by the LGB Alliance, the AMA, the College of Practicing Psychiatrists and other professional groups, as its definition of conversion and suppression practices was far too broad.
“The Victorian legislation even criminalises a parent who tries to dissuade their 10-year-old from transitioning to a gender that is at variance with their biological sex. We don’t want that kind of legislation in WA.
“We urge the McGowan Government to consult with health professionals and the large and growing community of people who have de-transitioned from their trans identity and people who have been helped through for childhood trauma by having therapy or counselling.
“It is vitally important that the proposed legislation does not cut people off from appropriate support and therapy.
“Faith communities also need to be consulted as the government media release states that its planned definition of ‘conversion and suppression practices’ includes ‘teachings’.
“The legislation must be framed in such a way that the religious freedom of Muslim, Jewish, Sikh and Christian communities is respected.”
ENDS
