Drummond Street Services expresses deep concern over the federal government's announcement of a review into gender-affirming healthcare for young people. In the current political climate, this move sends a troubling message, especially considering the escalating attacks on transgender rights in the United States. Notably, President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order enforcing binary gender classifications on federal documents and restricting taxpayer-funded gender-affirming healthcare, actions that have sparked fear and anxiety within the trans and non-binary community.
As Australia approaches its federal elections, there is growing apprehension about a potential shift to the right, which could further jeopardise the rights and well-being of transgender people. It is imperative that healthcare decisions remain in the hands of qualified professionals, free from political interference.
Karen Field, CEO of Drummond Street Services, emphasises, "The government needs to leave healthcare to healthcare professionals and not make gender affirmation a political issue. This concerns the welfare of vulnerable young people, and they are playing with their lives."
We urge the government to prioritise the health and safety of transgender youth by supporting evidence-based, gender-affirming care and to refrain from politicising essential healthcare services and we send our solidarity to all those negatively impacted by the increased levels of transphobic rhetoric during this time.