Full Breakdown
Tasmania Moves Toward Ban on Conversion Practices
By Drooid · · How we work
Legislative Proposal
The Tasmanian Greens have introduced a bill to criminalise “conversion practices” – attempts to change, suppress or eradicate a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Offences arise when the practice causes injury, with higher penalties if the victim is a child or lacks decision-making capacity. The anti-discrimination commissioner would act as a conversion-practices commissioner, receiving reports, investigating and issuing compliance notices or enforceable undertakings. Exemptions include health services by registered practitioners, genuine support for coping or identity exploration, public debate, religious expression, and parental discussions about sexuality or gender with their children.
Background & Context
A 2022 Tasmanian Law Reform Institute report found conversion practices were still occurring and recommended a ban. The Liberal government drafted a bill in 2023, but it was never tabled. Tasmania remains one of the few Australian jurisdictions where such practices are still legal, while Victoria, the ACT, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia have bans. The Greens tabled their bill on September 10.
Data & Statistics
Research cited in the debate indicates that one in 20 young LGBTQIA+ Tasmanians have experienced conversion practices. Those individuals are 3.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with PTSD and nearly four times more likely to attempt suicide than peers who have not been subjected to such practices.
Official Statements & Responses
Health Minister Bridget Archer said she is “likely” to support the Greens’ bill, noting amendments may be needed and emphasizing a conscience vote. Premier Jeremy Rockliff expressed support for ending conversion practices but warned of “over-reach” in the draft. Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff called the legislation a response to a “false and misguided scare campaign” and said she is open to amendments that do not alter its intent. Labor leader Josh Willie accused ministers of spreading misinformation.
Opposing Liberal MPs – Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, Police Minister Felix Ellis, and backbencher Michael Ferguson – will vote against the measure, calling it “fundamentally flawed.” Ferguson is sponsoring a parliamentary e-petition urging rejection. Independent members Kristie Johnston, David O’Byrne and Helen Burnet have signalled in-principle support. The Greens hold four votes, Labor ten, meaning the bill needs four additional votes to reach the required 18.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue the bill could criminalise speech they view as religious expression or parental guidance. Liberal backbenchers say the definition is overly broad and may infringe on freedom of belief. Some opponents warn amendments could dilute protections for transgender and gender-diverse youth.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's lifesaving legislation because it's about making sure that young people and their families are getting the very best support and are not going to be harmed by any sort of intervention,” — Ms Peschar
- “Parents are concerned that some MPs may move to take gender identity out of the bill, removing protection for their children altogether,” — Mr Pitcher
What’s Next
The bill is expected to be debated in the House of Assembly this week. With Labor’s ten votes, the Greens’ four, and pledged support from three independents, the legislation appears poised to reach the 18-vote threshold unless significant amendments alter its core provisions. If passed, Tasmania would join the other Australian states and territories in outlawing conversion practices and establishing a dedicated commissioner to enforce the ban.
