From 1 April 2025, the law in South Australia criminalises conversion practices.

A conversion practice is a practice, treatment or sustained effort occurring more than once that is directed to an individual on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity, with the purpose of changing or suppressing that individual's sexual orientation or gender identity [Conversion Practices Prohibition Act 2024 (SA) s 4(1)].

A conversion practice does not include a health service or treatment provided by a registered health practitioner that is clinically appropriate and complies with legal, professional and ethical requirements, such as genuinely assisting a person who is exploring their gender identity or considering gender affirming medical treatment [s 4(3)(a)]. It also does not include merely expressing a belief or principle, including through prayer [s 4(3)(c)].

From 1 April 2025, it is a criminal offence to:

An offence will be committed whether or not the individual or, if they lack legal capacity, their parent or guardian, consents to the conversion practice or removal from the state for that purpose [s 6(4), s 7(2)].

In addition to being a criminal offence, a complaint may be brought to the South Australian Commissioner for Equal Opportunity against a person who has provided a conversion practice to an individual [Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (SA) ss 86A and 93]. The Commissioner must refer a complaint against a registered health practitioner to the relevant health complaints entity.

More information about the Conversion Practices Prohibition Act 2024 (SA) may be found in the second reading speech.