Matt O'Sullivan (WA, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

Sorry; it's chaired by Senator Marielle Smith. Thank you, Senator Dean Smith.

The point is that we can be a mature body. We should be a mature body. When issues as important as this are brought forward, we should look at them. So I rise in support of Senator Antic's motion. The issue, of course, is deeply sensitive for some Australians. However, it must be addressed and debated without the threat of the rise of the cancel culture using emotive language that will cut across and deal with what is otherwise a very sensitive issue that parents and children are facing.

I personally struggle to understand how this issue is even up for discussion, yet here we are. We have children that are being referred to services and medical treatment that is, in many cases, irreversible. As Senator Antic was saying, a child can't vote, can't get a tattoo, is not legally allowed to drink, is not legally allowed to smoke, yet we have a situation where children are prescribed this treatment.

There's concern that there aren't the necessary checks and balances to ensure that the protection of those children is paramount. I think it is absolutely right that this Senate has a look at the framework that surrounds this whole issue to make sure that children aren't being exploited or referred to services and medical practices that would ultimately have a long-term impact upon their lives.

I understand that there are some that don't feel comfortable with this. I appreciate that there are some that don't feel comfortable with this. But the reality is that we are talking about the long-term impact upon children and the long-term impact upon our society, and we're seeing a deterioration of standards. I think it's highly appropriate that this parliament have a look at this issue. I believe that we can have a debate. I understand that Senator Green brought in some arguments. She even impugned a motive in regard to how this motion was first put together. I think we, as a parliament and as a Senate, can have a sensitive and mature look at this important issue.

It is an issue that is raised by many people within my state of Western Australia. I get quite a lot of correspondence from people that are very concerned about this. We're seeing the huge rise in extra litigation that's now occurring, particularly in the United States, against doctors and practitioners who have been part of a child's transition—later on in life, they're now suing the doctors. What sort of environment do we want to have here in this country? As I said, I think it's entirely appropriate that we take a look at this issue. I trust that the Senate can do that in a respectful way, and it is something that I would wholeheartedly support.