A decision to delay the introduction of a NSW ban on so-called gay conversion practices has received mixed responses from equality advocates.
The Minns Labor government had promised to introduce proposed laws to outlaw conversion practices by the end of the year.
But following requests to conduct further consultation with survivors, the government will delay the introduction of the bill until early-2024.
Independent MP Alex Greenwich wrote to Premier Chris Minns seeking more time for consultation before the laws were introduced.
"Reform is urgent but needs to be done carefully," he said.
"Any legislation will need the review and support of survivors of these harmful practices.
"I'm working well with the Minns government on this legislation and other long overdue LGBTQI reforms in my equality bill and it's my hope and intention we will achieve significant progress early in 2024."
Mr Greenwich, whose Sydney electorate hosts the annual Mardi Gras parade, has introduced his own proposal to ban gay conversion therapy and so-called "exorcisms" in NSW while overhauling other laws.
The other changes include permitting gender transitioning without surgery, protections for intersex children from unnecessary medical intervention and making it a domestic violence offence to "out" or threaten to out an LGBTQI partner.
But Equality Australia said it was disappointed by the government's delay.
"The NSW government must deliver legislation that prevents the psychological damage and trauma that conversion practices cause, in whichever settings they occur," legal director Ghassan Kassisieh said.
"A strong prohibition backed by a civil-response scheme that is focused on education and prevention is central to any successful reform."
Mr Minns said his government intended to fulfil the commitment to ban LGBTQI conversion practices in the state.
"It's clear though that we need more time and more consultation and I want to get this right," he said.
"Stakeholders have asked for more time to work through this (and) we'll continue to engage and consult with a view to bringing a bill early next year."
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