On November 23, 2022, the Free Speech Alliance Australia hosted a forum at Parliament House, Hobart, to discuss proposed Tasmanian laws banning conversion therapy. The event, supported by Liberal MP Lara Alexander, brought together experts, survivors, and concerned citizens to examine the risks, impacts, and consultation process surrounding the legislation.
Forum convener Isla MacGregor welcomed attendees, noting that robust debate, access to information, and a fearless media are essential to democracy. She highlighted concerns that the Tasmanian Law Reform Institute had not included dissenting voices in its consultations and warned that the current climate often suppresses discussion on sensitive issues like gender identity.
Speakers included Dr Dianna Kenny, a University of Sydney psychologist, who emphasized the need for careful consideration before young people undergo irreversible gender treatments, citing potential consequences such as infertility, sexual dysfunction, and lifelong medical intervention. Survivor testimony, such as that of Samuel Matuszek, illustrated the importance of informed guidance and therapy for young people experiencing gender dysphoria.
The forum also addressed wider issues of media bias and censorship. MacGregor criticised the lack of balanced reporting on gender identity law reforms and raised concerns about intimidation, no-platforming, and the silencing of those with alternative perspectives. She stressed that public debate should not be limited to slogans or political correctness, particularly when laws impact children and parental rights.
Attending the forum were members of the Liberal Party, alongside activists, parents, and healthcare professionals. Discussions explored both the medical and legal dimensions of the proposed legislation, with speakers advocating for informed debate rather than ideological suppression.
The forum aimed to provide a platform for voices not yet heard in Tasmania’s ongoing discussion on conversion therapy and gender identity legislation.