South Australian Government Unveils Total Ban on Conversion Practices

South Australia is poised to make a landmark move with new legislation aimed at completely banning conversion practices across the state. This significant step comes as the South Australian Government prepares to introduce a bill to the State Parliament this week. The announcement was made on World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD24).

Anthony Venn-Brown, a prominent advocate and survivor of so-called conversion "therapy," welcomed the South Australian Government's announcement of a new bill to ban conversion practices. Venn-Brown, who endured years of damaging attempts to change his sexuality, described the bill as a significant first step but emphasised that it needs to go further. He called for stronger protections, including provisions that allow third parties to bring complaints on behalf of survivors. Venn-Brown highlighted South Australia's pioneering role in decriminalising homosexuality in 1975 and urged the state to continue its legacy by implementing a robust ban on conversion practices. His call to action includes signing a petition to support the new legislation and ensure it provides genuine protection for those affected.

The proposed legislation seeks to outlaw any attempt to alter or suppress a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, a practice that has long been condemned for its harmful and abusive nature. Under the new law, those found guilty of inflicting serious harm through conversion practices could face up to five years in prison. Additionally, individuals attempting to flee the state to evade the new restrictions could be hit with penalties including a three-year jail term and/or a $15,000 fine.

Survivors of such practices will have the opportunity to file complaints with the Equal Opportunity Commissioner, who will then refer the cases to the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for further action.

South Australia’s Attorney-General Kyam Maher strongly condemned conversion therapy, describing it as "damaging" and equating it to abuse. “The message from our government is clear: you are loved just as you are,” Maher declared. He emphasised that what some may term ‘therapy’ is, in fact, a harmful practice aimed at forcing individuals to abandon their true selves under the guise of ‘help’.

Advocates and survivors have welcomed the bill with cautious optimism. Organisations such as the SA Rainbow Advocacy Alliance (SARAA), The Brave Network, and Equality Australia, among others, have long championed the cause. Anna Brown, CEO of Equality Australia, praised the introduction of the bill but urged for continued vigilance. “This bill is a good start, but we must remember that a single event can inflict a lifetime of pain,” she said. “It’s crucial that we work together to ensure this legislation provides genuine protection.”

Conversion practices, often misleadingly termed ‘conversion therapy’, have been widely discredited by medical and human rights experts. They aim to alter an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity through various harmful methods. While formal methods of these practices have largely ended, informal and unregulated versions continue to persist.

Jace Rah, a survivor of these practices, shared their personal experiences, highlighting the profound impact such therapies had on their life. Rah recounted the fear and emotional turmoil they endured, reflecting on the harmful messages they were subjected to. “Without this ban, people like me will continue to struggle with self-hatred and the belief that there’s something wrong with us,” Rah said.

Brown and other advocates hope this legislation will be a turning point, not just in South Australia but across the nation. While other states like New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and the ACT have already enacted similar bans, South Australia’s move represents a critical step forward in the fight against these destructive practices.

For those affected or seeking support, SARAA and other advocacy organisations are available to provide assistance. If this story has triggered distress, immediate help is available through QLife at 1800 184 527 or via their webchat service.

To support the fight against conversion practices and promote understanding and acceptance for LGBTQ individuals, join the #ABBIfamily today. Enormous suffering has been inflicted on LGBTQ people due to ignorance and misinformation about sexual orientation and gender identity. While progress has been made in some areas, many still face barriers rooted in geographical, cultural, and religious challenges.

Photo Source: starobserver.com.au