Minister for Women Advises Against Senate Debate on Gender-Defining Bill Due to Harmful Effects

Labor’s Minister for Women, Katy Gallagher, has defended the decision to block a proposed bill from One Nation that seeks to reintroduce the traditional definition of “man” and “woman” into the country’s law, citing the potential “harm” it could cause to young people.

The amendment aimed to eliminate the term “gender identity” from the Sex Discrimination Act and revive the original definitions of “man” and “woman” based on biological sex.

This rejection marks the second instance where Hanson was unable to progress such proposed legislation.

Usually, the first reading is ceremonial, simply notifying the Senate about the bill’s existence.

The bill’s title and purpose are read out by the clerk, there is no discussion, and senators vote on whether it can proceed to the second reading stage—blocking a bill during the first reading is uncommon.

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Senator Hanson voiced her dissatisfaction with how her Bill was handled.

“I was denied a right—a highly unusual occurrence in this setting. Labour and the Greens have taken the extraordinary step of opposing a bill at the initial reading stage that aimed to reaffirm the biological definitions of man and woman.”

Hanson emphasized the bill’s goal to align legal definitions with biological sex to protect the rights and spaces of women, but faced strong opposition.

Labor Senator Expresses Sensitivity of Debate

Labor Senator Katy Gallagher acknowledged the rarity of the move and defended its necessity.

“We made the unusual decision to disagree with the initial reading. We deliberated on this matter, considering the potential debates that could arise in this context if such a Bill was introduced. While we value our dynamic democracy, we draw the line when bills have the potential to harm individuals, particularly young people,” she stated in the Senate.

Gallagher also highlighted the vulnerability of the gender-diverse community.

“We are aware of the challenges faced by the gender-diverse community and their struggles. We do not believe the Senate is the appropriate platform for such debates. These discussions should take place at home, with friends, and with professionals, including health experts who can provide guidance on the tough decisions faced by young individuals in our country.”

Opposition Raises Concerns About Process Blockage

Simon Birmingham, the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, expressed concerns about the action and its potential implications.

“Typically, the initial reading stage is almost always passed without opposition and is considered a procedural step,” Birmingham stated. “We support these standard procedures, even with bills from the Greens, Labor, or crossbench that we strongly oppose.”

He further cautioned, “It could set a dangerous precedent if parties with sufficient support block the initial reading of a bill. Our parliamentary process involves three significant voting stages for considering bills, beginning with the initial reading.”