National review of transgender health care for Australian youth announced and new guidelines to be developed by NHMRC.
The Australian government has announced a comprehensive review of healthcare services for transgender and gender diverse children and adolescents. Health Minister, the Hon Mark Butler MP, stated on 31 January 2025 that the government is committed to ensuring all young people receive the best possible care, grounded in evidence and comprehensive support.
“We believe in a strong health system for all Australians,” said Minister Butler. “We want young people and their families to receive the best health care, led by the best available evidence and wrap-around support.”
Recognising the particular vulnerability of young people navigating gender identity, the government has emphasised its responsibility to ensure access to the most appropriate medical advice and care. “Governments also have a clear responsibility to ensure Australians are receiving the best medical advice and care available,” the Minister added. “That responsibility is especially important when it comes to the care of highly vulnerable children and adolescents.”
Following a request for advice from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and the Therapeutic Goods Administration, Minister Butler has tasked the NHMRC with conducting a thorough review of the current Australian Standards of Care and Treatment Guidelines for Trans and Gender Diverse Children and Adolescents. The NHMRC will then develop new national guidelines.
While the provision of public gender services rests with individual states and territories, the NHMRC, as the nation’s leading expert body in health and medical research, is uniquely positioned to develop and support high-quality clinical practice guidelines. “It is imperative there is community confidence that Australian children, adolescents and their families are receiving the most appropriate care,” Minister Butler stressed.
The development of the new guidelines will adhere to the NHMRC’s rigorous Standards for Guidelines and the internationally recognised GRADE approach. An expert committee, including individuals with lived experience, will be formed, and the process will incorporate public consultation and draw upon international research.
“It is important that this process is driven by evidence and is conducted by our most eminent medical researchers and clinicians, engaging with Australians with lived experience,” the Minister explained.
Interim advice regarding the use of puberty blockers is expected by mid-2026. Further information about the review process and opportunities for public input will be available on the NHMRC’s website shortly.
The government’s commitment to this review underscores its dedication to providing the best possible care for transgender and gender diverse young people. “These guidelines will ensure Australia has the most appropriate national guidelines of clinical practice and that families have the utmost confidence in the health care young Australians receive,” Minister Butler concluded. This initiative aims to provide clarity and confidence for both families and healthcare professionals navigating this complex and sensitive area of healthcare.
Also read: LGBTQIA+ funders merge to create Rainbow Giving Australia
Milton writes as both an occupation and a hazard. He also works on the newsletters you see on Tuesday and Thursday with articles you should find interesting.
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