South Australia bans conversion therapy practices

South Australia has officially banned conversion therapy, a move aimed at protecting LGBTQIA+ individuals from harmful practices that attempt to change their sexual orientation or gender identity. The law, which came into effect on April 1, 2025, includes severe penalties for offenders, with up to five years in prison for those who perform conversion practices and up to three years for arranging interstate services. Attorney-General Kyam Maher emphasized that sexual orientation is not a disorder that needs fixing, and the ban results from years of advocacy from the community. Survivor-advocates, including Jace Reh, hailed the reforms as a historic victory for LGBTQIA+ rights, stating that it represents progress in acknowledging the harms caused by conversion practices. The law allows for civil complaints to be filed against those who deliver conversion practices, signifying a commitment to protecting future generations from trauma. South Australia joins other regions in Australia, such as Victoria and New South Wales, in outlawing these practices.