Another Milestone in the 25-Year Journey

Anti-Discrimination NSW launches civil complaints scheme to end conversion “therapy” in the state

Milestone (definition) a significant stage or event in the development of something.

On August 10, 2000, I did something I had never done before. The internet was becoming a bigger part of my life, and I had begun to explore spaces like online Yahoo forums, including a couple dedicated to ex-ex-gays in the United States. The term “ex-ex-gay” was coined by those who had survived conversion “therapy”—or the ex-gay movement, as it was commonly known then.

Until that moment, I had never spoken openly about my own traumatic experience. Back in 1972, I admitted myself to a residential Christian community that believed they could “convert” me from my homosexuality to heterosexuality. Like many others who had gone through similar programs, I carried a deep sense of shame—not about the failure of the process, but about the fact that I had entrusted others, and even God, with the power to “fix” something I believed to be unnatural, abnormal, and evil within me.

Milestone 1

From Shame to Solidarity: Launching a Support Network for Ex-Ex-Gays in Australia

In 1999, I experienced a profound personal transformation—moving from shame and internalised homophobia to acceptance and pride. Through U.S.-based Yahoo groups, I connected with survivors of conversion practices, most discussing Exodus International, a major ex-gay organisation. I noticed a lack of Australian voices, despite Exodus International South Pacific operating seven ministries across Australia and New Zealand. On August 10, 2000, I launched Exex-gay, an online support group for Australian survivors. It grew rapidly, reaching nearly 400 members and fostering vibrant discussions. It became the community I had once thought impossible to find. READ MORE.

Milestone 2

Revealing the Hidden Story: A Life of Unlearning and Its Impact on Australia’s Ex-Gay Movement

In 2004, my autobiography, A Life of Unlearning became a bestseller and Australia’s first well-known conversion “therapy” survivor story. As a former Pentecostal preacher, my honest account resonated deeply with LGBTQ readers and their families, many saying, “Your story is my story.” At the time, nearly 40 “change is possible” ministries operated across Australia and New Zealand—more per capita than the U.S.—and were often supported by churches, religious leaders, and therapists. Groups like Liberty Christian Ministries, Living Waters, and Catholic Courage spread harmful messages, leading many LGBTQ people to seek “healing” through marriage or celibacy, with devastating effects. READ MORE.

Milestone 3

Taking Action: The Fight to Shut Down Conversion “therapy” in Australia

After hearing countless heartbreaking stories—rejection, mental health struggles, failed marriages, and suicide attempts—I knew I had to act. I set a goal: shut down every “ex-gay” organisation in Australia and expose the harm of conversion “therapy.” I developed a strategy: share my story widely, amplify survivor voices, encourage former leaders to speak out, create online resources, write supportive articles, and promote research on the damage caused. By 2012, two-thirds of these organisations had closed. Soon after, major groups like Living Waters, Beyond Egypt, and Exodus shut down. But that was just the beginning of real change. READ MORE.

Milestone 4

Tackling the root of the problem through legislation

Shutting down “ex-gay” groups was just the beginning—the real battle was challenging the deeply rooted beliefs within conservative Christian communities and the hetero normativity taught in their churches and schools. As I said in 2009, “Ex-gay ministries are not the cause but a symptom of a deeper problem: ignorance.” Most inquiries came from evangelicals and Pentecostals, highlighting systemic issues. Since 1991, survivors, researchers, and films like Boy Erased and The Cure have exposed the harm caused. Global bans followed, with Queensland leading Australia in 2020. NSW’s 2024 Conversion Practices Ban Act, taking effect in April the following year, marks another vital milestone. READ MORE.

Milestone 5

Anti-Discrimination NSW launches website on LGBTQA conversion practices.

On April 3, at NSW Parliament House, Anti-Discrimination NSW launched its civil complaints scheme and website addressing LGBTQA conversion practices. I had the honour of delivering the opening speech. The initiative introduced key guidelines: complaints can be made by individuals or others on their behalf; conversion practices and exemptions are clearly defined; outcomes may include conciliation, education, or further investigation. Survivors aren’t required to face the other party. Severe cases can lead to up to 5 years in prison, and taking someone out of NSW for these practices can result in 3 years’ imprisonment or fines. If unresolved, cases may go to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal with compensation up to $100,000. FAQs cover 17 key questions and are available in six languages. As I said, this isn’t about attacking religion—it’s about protecting vulnerable LGBTQA people and ending harm. This law is a vital step forward and, most importantly, it will save lives. READ MORE.

Interested in Learning More?

Does your church leadership, denomination, or LGBTQ organisation need training in conversion “therapy” and practices?

As part of our commitment to education and advocacy, we’ve developed a training package that explores the complexities and consequences of conversion practices in depth. Here’s what it covers:

The History of the “Change is Possible” Movement
Understanding the origins and evolution of the movement advocating for sexual orientation and gender identity change efforts.
What is Conversion “Therapy”?
Identifying the various forms LGBTQ conversion practices can take, from informal interventions to organised programs.
Key Terminology and Language Shifts
Exploring how and why language around LGBTQ conversion practices has changed, and the importance of respectful, accurate terminology..
Legal Framework and Boundaries
A clear overview of current legislation: what is permitted, what is prohibited, and how the law protects individuals.
Survivor Voices
Personal testimonies from those who have experienced LGBTQ conversion practices—highlighting impact.
Why These Practices Are Harmful—and Now Illegal
Examining the psychological, emotional, and social harm caused by LGBTQ conversion practices, and the evidence that led to their prohibition.
Further Resources
Guidance on where to go for more information and support.

Discover more

Another Milestone in the 25-Year Journey