Intersex Human Rights Australia

Australian insurance companies have been using genetic test results to discriminate against individuals. This practice can lead to higher premiums or outright denial of coverage for those with certain genetic markers. This has directly affected members of the intersex community.

In the Darlington Statement, we called for “We call for an end to genetic discrimination, including in insurance and employment.”

People who undergo genetic testing, often for medical reasons, may find themselves at a disadvantage when applying for life insurance, disability insurance, or other types of coverage. This creates a dilemma for individuals who need genetic testing for health reasons but fear the financial repercussions.

IHRA put a submission to Treasury in their consideration of this issue and it has been announced today that in response to these practices, the federal government is bringing in new legislation that will ban the use of genetic information in insurance underwriting. This move aims to protect individuals from discrimination and ensure fair access to insurance.

The IHRA submission was led by Dr Alice de Jonge. Alice is a senior lecturer in law at Monash Business School. She has been a director on the board of IHRA since December 2021. She is author of four books and over 50 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. Her research focuses on issues of human rights, equity and social inclusion in national and international law.

Visit Submission on use of genetic testing results in insurance underwriting – https://lnkd.in/ghzziTYz to read the full submission.

Sources:
The Guardian: “Australia to ban life insurance companies from discriminating based on genetic testing results”
Submission on use of genetic testing results in insurance underwriting – Intersex Human Rights Australia (ihra.org.au)