Better understanding of the scope and nature of LGBTQA+ religious conversion practices will support recovery

Recent research has shown that conversion practices are poorly understood in Australia and that health workers would benefit from training to improve their care of survivors. As part of a comprehensive civil response, training for medical and mental health practitioners will be important given that increased public attention on these issues will likely lead more survivors to seek support. It is significant that the Australian Medical Association, the Australian Psychological Society and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists have issued statements against conversion practices. These could be further supported by provision of more information for members about the scope and nature of conversion practices and ideology, details of appropriate referral pathways, and support for training