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AAP
AAP
Health
Nick Gibbs

Queensland moves on rights for donor-conceived people

Access to genetic origins could allow people to better manage their health, Shannon Fentiman says. (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Donor-conceived people may have greater access to their genetic history under a suite of recommendations accepted by the Queensland government.

In response to a parliamentary inquiry on donor conception, the government gave in-principle support for donor-conceived persons to be legislatively provided with the right to know the identity of their donor and siblings when they turn 18.

Donors having access to information about donor-conceived persons was also supported.

Access to genetic origins will not only enhance well-being, but could allow people to manage their health more appropriately, Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman said.

"Conception using donated sperm, eggs or embryos has given countless Queensland couples and individuals the precious gift of starting or extending a family," she said on Tuesday.

"We must not lose sight of the unique needs of those who have been conceived through this process."

Providing accurate and timely information will require a central donor conception register to be established in Queensland.

"Further consideration is required regarding the implementation, funding and resourcing implications to establish and maintain a register," the government response says.

This will likely involve developing IT systems and digitising historical records.

The best way to obtain contact preferences of those involved, particularly for historical donor conception procedures, also needs to be considered.

Three decades of advocacy have preceded the changes, Donor Conceived Australia national director Aimee Shackleton said.

"Queensland donor-conceived people have the same rights to their medical and family history as any other Australian, including the option for facilitated contact with donors and siblings, with the consent of both parties," she said.

Queensland does not have legislation to regulate donor conception practices or assisted reproductive technology services generally, including access to donor conception information, the government response says.

Timing for introduction of the required legislation will depend on consultation and working through the operational and implementation issues.

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