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Dr Jillian Spencer vindicated by Queensland government’s puberty blocker freeze
The Queensland Government’s decision to freeze the prescription of puberty blockers for under-18s and launch an independent review into the practice is a huge win for children and parents and signals an important step towards greater scrutiny of medical interventions for “gender dysphoria” that have lifelong consequences.
According to The Australian, the call was made after a whistleblower lodged a complaint with Queensland Health in May 2024. An investigation by the Cairns Sexual Health Service uncovered that 42 patients aged between 12 and 18 had received treatment that did not adhere to best practice guidelines, with 17 being prescribed either puberty blockers or “gender-affirming” hormone therapy.
Health Minister Tim Nicholls announced that new prescriptions of puberty blockers would be halted for minors pending the outcome of the review.
This decision is a vindication for Dr Jillian Spencer, who courageously opposed the automatic affirmation of gender-confused children and suffered professional repercussions as a result.
Dr Spencer, a psychiatrist at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, was stood down for expressing concerns about the unquestioning approach to gender dysphoria treatment. She argued that children experiencing gender confusion deserve thorough psychological assessments rather than immediate medical interventions.
“I’m absolutely thrilled that, finally, some members of the government have shown courage and are leading the way,” Dr Spencer told The Australian.
“It’s so well-known that this needs to change.”
Dr Spencer said puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones did not lead to “any benefit in mental health for children”.
“Originally, it was sold as reducing suicide risk but it’s become very clear that that’s not the case. We know that they have their very serious risks and harms, things like infertility and lack of sexual function and long-term physical health problems, as well as the risk of regret with distress,” she said.
Dr Spencer’s case illustrates the dangers of a medical culture that puts ideology over evidence-based care. She took a stand when few others would and faced professional consequences as a result. But her courage in speaking out has now been vindicated.
The Human Rights Law Alliance (HRLA) is assisting Dr Spencer’s legal battle, ensuring her right to speak truth is defended. The case highlights how ideological pressure can stifle open debate and punish medical professionals for challenging the accepted narrative.
The Queensland Government’s decision sends a clear message that a more cautious and evidence-based approach to gender-confused children is needed. This follows growing international concern over the long-term impact of puberty blockers, with countries like Sweden, Finland, and the UK pulling back on their use for children. France has warned against the risks of over-medicalising gender dysphoria in young people. And this week, US President Donald Trump issued an executive order pulling any funding or support for institutions that provide puberty blockers.
Queensland’s decision aligns with these global trends, prioritising the well-being of vulnerable children over ideological agendas.
And in the days following the Queensland announcement, a group of over 100 signatories have written to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling for a federal inquiry.
Spearheaded by Dr Spencer the group includes doctors, lawyers, academics, and de-transitioners.
This critical conversation is finally being forced into the mainstream in Australia.
The Queensland Government’s review is a major step forward in protecting young Australians from irreversible medical harm. Dr Spencer’s advocacy has played an important role, proving that speaking up, even in the face of adversity, can bring about real change.
HRLA will continue to support Australians like Dr Spencer who stand for truth, freedom, and the best interests of children.
Read more about the Queensland government’s decision here.
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