The Queensland government has announced the continuation of its pause on prescribing puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones for new adolescent trans patients within the public health system. This decision follows consideration of a comprehensive independent review into the evidence base surrounding these treatments. Health Minister Tim Nicholls confirmed the ongoing moratorium, citing concerns about the limited long-term data available for such interventions.

The independent review, spearheaded by Victoria’s former chief psychiatrist Professor Ruth Vine, comprised a 530-page assessment of existing evidence. Cabinet recently considered its findings, which concluded that the evidence base underpinning the use of puberty blockers and hormones in adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria was “extremely limited.” This critical assessment forms the bedrock of the government’s cautious approach.

Furthermore, the Vine review identified potential negative impacts associated with puberty blockers, specifically noting adverse effects on patients’ bone health and fertility. While acknowledging “low quality” preliminary evidence suggesting these treatments might alleviate some symptoms of gender dysphoria, the review’s overall findings underscored significant gaps in long-term safety and efficacy data, prompting the government to prioritize patient safety.

Minister Nicholls stated that the pause will remain in effect until the completion of a significant trial currently being undertaken by the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom. This comprehensive UK study is not anticipated to conclude until 2031, indicating a long-term commitment by Queensland to await more robust, definitive evidence before reconsidering its policy.

The initial “immediate pause” on new adolescent patients receiving these treatments was implemented by Mr. Nicholls in January, pending the outcome of the independent review. He reiterated that public hospitals in Queensland would continue to provide extensive support services for children presenting with gender dysphoria, including psychosocial and other non-pharmacological interventions. The focus remains on holistic care beyond medical prescriptions.

This decision, while medically informed, is acknowledged by the government as a “hotly contested area.” Minister Nicholls expressed understanding that “some people will disagree with the government’s decision,” highlighting the sensitive and complex nature of gender-affirming care for young people. The government maintains its position is rooted in the safety and well-being of minors.

Queensland’s stance aligns with a broader international trend, as noted by Minister Nicholls. Several European nations, including France, Finland, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, have significantly strengthened and tightened their regulations regarding the prescription, use, and availability of hormone therapies for adolescents. These countries have similarly moved towards more cautious approaches based on evolving evidence and clinical experience.

Despite the contentious nature of the policy, Minister Nicholls emphasized that the review and subsequent government decision were not intended to reflect negatively on the transgender community. He affirmed that “all people are expected to be respected and their feelings and their positions taken into account.” The government’s focus, he stressed, solely concerns a specific medical treatment lacking sufficient long-term evidence.

The government firmly believes that withholding these drugs from the public system, pending better evidence, serves the best interests and safety of children. This protective measure underscores a commitment to evidence-based healthcare, particularly for irreversible treatments or those with significant long-term implications for developing adolescents.

The continuation of the pause also anticipates fresh legal challenges. A mother of a transgender teenager, who previously successfully contested the state’s initial ban, is reportedly preparing further legal action against the government’s updated policy. This suggests the debate surrounding adolescent gender-affirming care in Queensland will likely continue in the courts.

Read Original

Keywords: Queensland puberty blockers, transgender adolescents treatment, gender dysphoria Queensland, puberty blocker pause Australia, Ruth Vine review, gender-affirming care policy, adolescent gender health, Tim Nicholls health minister