Condom controversy hits NT teens - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)Condom controversy hits NT teens
Pharmacists in the Northern Territory would have to report any 15-year-old buying condoms under new underage sex laws, the Territory's Minister for Child Protection has confirmed.
The Australian Medical Association has described the legislation as unworkable because it makes it illegal not to report teenagers under 16 years of age who are sexually active.
The AMA warns the laws could increase teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections because young people would be afraid of seeking sexual health advice and contraception.
Malarndirri McCarthy has told Triple J's Hack program that under the new laws, pharmacists would be obliged to inform authorities about teenagers under 16 years of age buying condoms.
"The information would go to the central intake team which is part of the Northern Territory Families and Children Department," Ms McCarthy said.
"And then they would decide whether that goes on obviously to the police.
"And then they would make that observation as to whether they investigate."
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2009/04/22/46661_ntnews.html
Under proposed laws, any suspected incidents of underage sexual activity would be legally required to be reported, even if both parties are consenting and under 16.
Mandatory reporting of suspected sex crimes means anyone who is aware of underage sex must report it to health authorities, who tell police.
This would include purchasing condoms and consultation with doctors, teachers and family members about safe sex and contraception.
Malarndirri McCarthy has made comments suggesting, under the new laws criminal prosecution would be applied to under 16's engaging in consensual sex.