Transgender Issues

Protection for trans students • SSO • May 7, 2009

Changes to the Victorian Government Schools Reference Guide will make it easier for teachers to follow clearer guidelines when dealing with transgender and intersex students.

Although it is plainly stated that schools must be supportive of transgender students, there is still no direct path for teachers and principals to follow when gender identity issues arise.

The guidelines for students with transgender or intersex status now fall under health responsibilities for school management, calling on schools to look at developing a management plan, reviewing toilet facilities, protecting students’ privacy, using preferred names and providing further support. Read more

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Court lets girl, 17, remove breasts
Sydney Morning Herald • May 4, 2009

THE Family Court has allowed a 17-year-old girl to have her breasts removed so she can be more like a boy.

The teenager, code-named "Alex", was on court-ordered hormone medication from the age of 13 to prevent menstruation and breast development. She returned to the court in December 2007 asking for a double mastectomy to make it easier for her to pass as a boy.

The Chief Justice of the Family Court, Diana Bryant, decided it was in the teenager's best interests to have the surgery immediately rather than wait until turning 18. Read more