Queensland to Proceed with Review of Puberty Blockers and Transgender Treatments Despite Federal Inquiry

Despite a federal inquiry being announced, Queensland’s Liberal National Party (LNP) is conducting its own independent review of puberty blockers in youths.

LNP Premier David Crisafulli stated that the national inquiry announced last week was Canberra’s responsibility, while Queensland would proceed with its own review.

The state decided to halt the prescribing of drugs that delay puberty in young individuals due to concerns about children as young as 12 receiving these treatments without parental consent.

According to health data in the state, around 500 Queensland children and teenagers are on the waitlist for treatments.

“Our review was prompted by concerning revelations in the far north,” Crisafulli confirmed the state’s decision to continue with its independent review in an interview with ABC Radio on Feb. 3.

“Our review will be carried out with the utmost respect and diligence,” Crisafulli mentioned, ensuring a thorough investigation into the use of Stage 1 (puberty blockers) and Stage 2 (hormone therapy) medications.

Health Minister Tim Nicholls stated, “The Queensland government does not support expanding the Queensland Children’s Gender Service (QCGS) and has paused further implementation of evaluation recommendations while the government assesses the situation.”

He added, “An independent review of Stage 1 and Stage 2 hormone therapies for children in Queensland will be commissioned by the Director-General of Queensland Health, ensuring an unbiased investigation.”

“The lead reviewer will have independence from the Department, and the review’s Terms of Reference will be determined in consultation with them.

“The primary goal of this extensive review is to conduct an independent and thorough assessment of best practices in this field.”

Minister’s Call for National Consistency

Upon the announcement of the federal inquiry, Health Minister Mark Butler expressed concerns about Queensland proceeding independently.

“I have informed Minister Nicholls that I do not believe it would be suitable for Queensland to continue its planned evidence review in this area of care,” Butler stated.

“Consistency across the nation is crucial when addressing these issues.”

The federal Labor government initiated a significant review on Jan. 31, only days after Queensland’s decision, emphasizing the importance of families receiving the best possible evidence and support for treatments.

“Governments have a clear duty to ensure Australians receive top-notch medical advice and care,” Butler emphasized.

“This responsibility is especially critical when it comes to the care of vulnerable children and teenagers.”

As part of the federal review, the National Health and Medical Research Council will investigate gender treatments, including the use of the drug.

Internationally, several governments have introduced reviews or restrictions on gender treatments for children, with U.S. President Donald Trump recently signing an order to cease funding for such treatments.

Countries like Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, and the United Kingdom have restricted the use of puberty blockers.

‘Must Never Be Allowed Again’: One Nation

Queensland One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson has consistently called for a review of these drugs, highlighting past efforts vetoed by the Labor party.

“I have lost track of how many times I’ve urged a Senate inquiry into the concerning medical experiments conducted on Australian children under the guise of ‘transgender healthcare,'” she stated.

Hanson reiterated, “Puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, irreversible surgeries—this is child abuse, plain and simple.”

“Every time I demanded a review, Labor responded with abuse, belittlement, and insults, not just to me but to anyone speaking the truth.”

She emphasized the fears surrounding gender medications on children and called for an immediate ban on such treatments for children under 18.

“No more excuses, no more delays,” Hanson concluded.