Victoria has passed new laws prohibiting non-urgent medical interventions on infants and children born with variations in sex characteristics until they are able to give informed consent.
Parliament approved the Health Safeguards for People Born with Variations in Sex Characteristics Bill 2025 on Thursday, making Victoria the first state and the second jurisdiction in Australia to enshrine such protections in law.
The legislation applies to people born with sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions or understandings of male or female bodies. Some have previously undergone medical procedures that permanently altered their bodies without their consent.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the reforms are designed to strengthen protections and rights for affected Victorians.
“No matter who you are – every Victorian deserves access to a health system that has their best interests at heart,” she said.
“For too long, Victorians born with variations in sex characteristics have had harm caused to them by our medical system.”
“This bill puts an end to these unnecessary interventions.”
Under the new law, medical procedures that permanently change a child’s sex characteristics will be deferred until the individual can provide informed consent. Urgent treatments required to save a life or prevent serious harm will continue without delay.
The government said the changes are aimed at protecting vulnerable children while ensuring appropriate medical care remains available where clinically necessary.
Parents will be provided with additional information and supports to assist with decision making. The reforms also establish access to peer and psychosocial support for people born with variations in sex characteristics and their families.
Equality Minister Vicki Ward said the legislation reflects a broader commitment to equitable healthcare.
“We introduced this landmark legislation because every Victorian deserves access to safe, appropriate medical care – no matter how you are born,” she said.
The Bill was developed following consultation with community members, clinicians, legal experts and human rights advocates beginning in 2021.
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