Dr Jillian Spencer, a respected Queensland child and adolescent psychiatrist, is continuing her courageous fight against the growing culture of censorship and ideological conformity in Australia’s medical profession.

In September, Queensland Health issued Dr Spencer a termination notice from her position at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. Her only “offence” was refusing to comply with an automatic “affirmative” approach to children experiencing gender distress.

Instead, she advocated for a careful, evidence-based, and holistic approach that considers each child’s broader mental health and family circumstances.

Rather than being commended for her professionalism and compassion, Dr Spencer was stood down and investigated. She has since become a symbol of defiance for many Australians who believe medical professionals should not be punished for following evidence and conscience.

Now, as Sky News reported this week, Queensland Health has been forced to pause Dr Spencer’s dismissal after she filed for judicial review in the Queensland Supreme Court, which will now examine whether the termination was lawful. 

The Supreme Court matter is separate from the political discrimination case being run by the HRLA in the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission.

Speaking with Sky, she gave a shoutout to HRLA.

“It’s the wonderful Human Rights Law Alliance that is handling my claim that I have been politically discriminated against by the Queensland Children’s Hospital,” she said.

“If we win that case, then Australians, in their workplace, will be able to be open about their belief in biological reality that people can’t change sex and they won’t have to fear about being fired or disciplined for that.” 

HRLA is privileged to stand with Dr Spencer as she defends her right, and the right of all professionals, to act in accordance with conscience, medical ethics, and professional judgment. Her case raises a profound question: can doctors and public servants express good-faith concerns about gender ideology without losing their jobs?

If freedom of conscience is not protected, both liberty and good medicine are at risk. The push to silence dissenting clinicians, particularly those urging caution with children, undermines trust in the medical system and violates the principle of “do no harm.”

Dr Spencer’s legal fight has the potential to set an important precedent for professionals across Australia. No one should face disciplinary action or dismissal for refusing to endorse a political or ideological orthodoxy.

At HRLA, we remain committed to defending Australians like Dr Spencer whose courage and conviction protect the freedoms on which a just society depends.