Psychiatrists are deeply concerned by new research revealing the persistently poorer mental health outcomes of trans, nonbinary, and gender-diverse Australians compared to the general population—with the gap widening over time. 

A study published in BMJ Mental Health found that mental health disparities have significantly worsened over the past 22 years, particularly among young people. 

The President of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP), Dr Elizabeth Moore, said the findings underscored the systemic barriers and mounting challenges faced by trans and gender-diverse Australians in the past two decades, further compounded by the Queensland Government’s recent decision to freeze gender-affirming care for new patients under 18. 

“Trans and gender-diverse people experience higher rates of mental illness due to stigma, discrimination, trauma, and social exclusion. 

“It is extremely worrying that we are moving backwards in how we care for trans and gender-diverse Australians. 

“Blanket bans on evidence-informed treatments, like the one imposed in Queensland, only cause more harm by preventing clinicians from providing essential care to a vulnerable group of people. 

“Instead, governments must expand access to patient-centred, evidence-based care that is delivered ethically, respectfully, and with consent in culturally safe environments.” 

The RANZCP and other peak health bodies have urged the Queensland Government to pause and reconsider its decision until the findings of the state’s independent review into puberty blockers are released. 

Dr Moore reaffirmed the College’s commitment to supporting both the Queensland and Federal Governments in their respective reviews of care standards and treatment guidelines for trans and gender-diverse children and adolescents. 

“We have long advocated for more research in Australia and New Zealand into safe and effective treatment options for trans and gender-diverse individuals, guided by the strongest clinical evidence. 

“But while these reviews take place, we cannot allow the debate to fuel further stigma and marginalise those directly affected. 

“Trans and gender-diverse people deserve to be treated with care, respect and dignity at all times, under all circumstances and by all medical services. 

“And that includes upholding their right to access the support they need and ensuring established treatments are not withdrawn in ways that cause distress or harm.” 

The RANZCP’s position statement highlights the critical role of psychiatrists in countering the discrimination faced by trans and gender diverse people, advocating for ethical and evidence-based treatment, and protecting their patients from harm. 

“We encourage our members to continue working alongside trans and gender-diverse people, their families, and carers to ensure their mental health needs are being met. 

“At a time when mental health disparities are worsening, governments must prioritise expanding, and not restricting, access to care for trans and gender diverse people that is safe, ethical, consensual and grounded in clinical expertise,” Dr Moore said.

ENQUIRIES: For more information, or to arrange an interview call Dishi Gahlowt on +61 437 315 911 or email media@ranzcp.org.   

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is a membership organisation that prepares medical specialists in the field of psychiatry, supports and enhances clinical practice, advocates for people affected by mental illness and advises governments and other groups on mental health care. For information about our work, our members or our history, visit www.ranzcp.org. 

In Australia: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au or the Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au. 

In New Zealand: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline NZ on 0800 543 354 or www.lifeline.org.nz or the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865 or www.lifeline.org.nz/suicide-prevention.