Dean Smith (WA, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

The coalition government abhors discrimination and is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of every young Australian. The clinical treatment of children experiencing gender dysphoria is a complex and evolving field, and state and territory governments are being encouraged to work to develop a nationally consistent approach to best practice treatment with appropriate safeguards. The government has acknowledged the diversity of perspectives that senators in the broader community bring to this debate in good faith. This was reflected in the decision to allow coalition senators a conscience vote on an earlier motion.

The government believes schools should be not be permitted to discriminate against students or staff on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The government has stated that any changes to the Sex Discrimination Act should make clear that discrimination against students and staff is unacceptable while ensuring religious educational institutions can teach in a manner consistent with the tenets of their faith.

The government will engage with LGBTIQ groups and will undertake thorough consultation ahead of any future reforms of Australia's antidiscrimination laws. Assertions that the rights of LGBTIQ Australians have been or will be undermined or wound back are without foundation. It is the view of coalition senators— (Time expired)