New sperm donor law erodes human rights

“The new law entrenches discrimination in NSW law. This is a step backwards, not forwards, for human rights in this state,” said CCL Vice President Mr David Bernie.

“The law grants a right to sperm donors to discriminate against people on the grounds of their gender, race, sexuality and religion. This law violates the fundamental human right that we are all equal,” said Mr Bernie.

“The Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission warned the NSW Parliament that this law violates Australia’s human rights obligations – and yet the NSW government proceeded with the legislation. It’s time the NSW Parliament started protecting human rights, rather than eroding them,” Mr Bernie said.

“Donation clinics have said that there is no demand coming from donors for this discriminatory law. Donors are not asking to be able to choose who can and cannot receive their sperm. So you have to ask yourself who is pushing this racist, homophobic, misogynist and anti-religious bigotry?” Mr Bernie said.

"Despite what the Premier says, this law does not protect children. Instead it means that every baby in NSW will be born in a State where discrimination is entrenched in law. This law makes their world less free and democratic. It makes some babies less equal than others,” Mr Bernie said.