Queensland Government Pauses Hormone Therapy for Trans Youth Under 18

The Queensland government has announced an immediate pause on new trans patients under the age of 18 accessing hormone therapies in the state's public health system. Health Minister Tim Nicholls revealed the pause on Tuesday alongside the initiation of a review into the evidence for hormone therapies for children with gender dysphoria.

Mr. Nicholls stated that the independent review would be designed to include healthcare professionals with relevant expertise, as well as young people with lived experiences and their families. A final report is to be delivered to the government within 10 months.

He pointed out that there had been "apparently unauthorised provision of paediatric gender services" in the Cairns Sexual Health Service, resulting in 17 children receiving hormone therapy that may not conform to accepted Australian treatment guidelines.

The minister announced two investigations into the Cairns Sexual Health Service: one exploring the governance framework and the other examining the services provided.

While the broader review is taking place, the Queensland government has decided to pause new patient access to hormone therapy for those under 18. However, existing patients under treatment plans will be exempt, which Mr. Nicholls affirmed is the medically appropriate procedure.

Mr. Nicholls reassured that the Queensland Children's Gender Service would continue providing other critical support services to adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria, including psychological treatment, counselling, and other recommended medical interventions.

Greens MP Michael Berkman condemned the LNP's position, arguing that "culture war crap" was undermining essential healthcare. He mentioned that hormone therapy and puberty blockers are life-saving treatments.

Eloise Brook, CEO of AusPath, highlighted the detrimental impact the government’s decision will have on trans children and their families, particularly for those unable to afford private treatment. AusPath represents over 600 healthcare professionals.

An earlier review under the previous Labor government found no evidence that patients or their families felt hurried or coerced into seeking medical intervention. However, Mr. Nicholls emphasised that this review did not assess the evidence base for hormone therapies.

Statistics from the last evaluation revealed a significant increase in children and adolescents with diverse gender experiences seeking care, with 547 children and adolescents receiving care and another 491 waiting as of June last year.