Victoria passes landmark health safeguards for intersex children
Last month, Victoria took a historic step for bodily autonomy and human rights.
On 19 February 2026, the Victorian Parliament passed the Health Safeguards Bill, strengthening protections for children born with innate variations of sex characteristics. The Bill passed unanimously in the lower house, and then passed the upper house 24 votes to 15.[1]
At Rainbow Giving Australia, we fund community-led organisations working for safety, dignity, and inclusion across rainbow communities. InterAction for Health and Human Rights (’InterAction’) is one of our grant partners, and this result reflects years of sustained, expert advocacy led by intersex people and their communities.
What the reform means
This reform is about protecting the health and wellbeing of children, and ensuring deeply personal decisions about bodies and futures are not made without consent when they can safely be deferred.[1]
InterAction’s Co-Chair Tony Briffa described the moment as life-changing:
“I felt a decades-long weight lift from my shoulders, knowing that what was done to me will never happen to another child in Victoria.”[1]
InterAction’s Executive Director Associate Professor Morgan Carpenter also highlighted the significance of the broad political support:
“This shows that intersex issues need not be controversial, and need not imply a loss of political capital. It is time for other jurisdictions to introduce and enact the same protections.”[1]
A win built on community-led leadership
This Bill was supported by a broad range of parties across the political spectrum.[1]
But the real story is the people and lived experience behind the reform.
Community member Emiliana Soulio spoke to the courage and care it takes to advocate publicly — and the comfort of knowing protections are now in place:
“It’s comforting to know that children like me will have the protections they need, and their families will have greater support.”[1]
Where to find support
If you or someone you love is intersex, support is available.
InterAction points to:
InterLink, a professional and peer-led psychosocial support program for people with intersex variations and their families: https://ilink.net.au[1]
Intersex Peer Support Australia, providing community connection and support: https://isupport.org.au[1]
How you can help
This is a major step forward. It is also a reminder that change happens when communities are resourced to lead.
If you want to learn more, read InterAction’s full update (including links to the Bill text and supporting documents):
