Puberty blockers: Chhour backs moves to prioritise child safety

ACT Children's spokesperson Karen Chhour is welcoming the Government's suspension of the prescription of puberty blockers for gender dysphoria.

"In recent years the world has rushed to put young people on a medical pathway without the evidence to show that it’s safe or effective," says Mrs Chhour.

"The Government's decision aligns us with the United Kingdom, which is now conducting clinical trials after the independent Cass Review found uncertainty regarding the safety and effectiveness of puberty blockers for young people.

"Growing up can be challenging and confusing, but using puberty blockers as the primary treatment to deal with gender identity issues can cause lifelong effects that are later regretted.

"I believe young people should be supported to love themselves, not change themselves with experimental medication.

"We’re putting science, evidence, and the safety of children first."