07 November 2007

Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill introduced into NSW Parliament

NSW Minister for Health Reba Meagher today introduced legislation into the NSW Parliament to tighten the existing rules around assisted reproductive technologies, including sperm and egg donation.

Introducing the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Bill 2007, Ms Meagher said that extensive consultation had been undertaken regarding the medical, scientific, social and ethical issues involved.

Ms Meagher said the new legislation provided stronger protection for the rights of individuals to control the use of their genetic material.

"This allows donors to place conditions on the use of their donated sperm or ova so that the material may be used only in a manner that complies with the donor's wishes," Ms Meagher said.

"For example, a donor from a particular cultural or ethnic background may stipulate that their donation is only to be offered to members of that community."

Ms Meagher said a key guiding principle for development of this legislation was recognising the rights of children born as a result of ART procedures and the importance of acting in their best interests.

"A fundamental aspect of this right is the availability of and access to information about their biological parents and siblings," Ms Meagher said.

Under the new legislation, a central donor register will be established to allow donor-conceived children to access important information about their donor parent once they turn 18. This will include information such as the donor's name, date of birth and education, as well as important medical information.

The proposed mandatory register will apply only to future donors. Individuals who have in the past donated anonymously will not be required to provide information for the register, but can choose to provide details on a voluntary basis.

"Donor-conceived children will also be able to provide information to the register so that it may be accessed by the donor once the child has reached the age of 18," Ms Meagher said.

The Bill will now be subject to debate in the Parliament.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au