SCAG releases discussion paper on non-consensual DNA testing

07/11/2008

The Model Criminal Law Officers' Committee of the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General has released a discussion paper, entitled Non-consensual Genetic Testing.�The closing date for comments is 31 January 2009.�When announcing the release of the discussion paper, Minister for Home Affairs Bob Debus said: "“Non-consensual genetic testing may involve physical harm, where a bodily sample is taken by force, or emotional harm, where the paternity or identity of the individual is questioned, or genetic predisposition to illness is identified without that person’s consent."

The discussion paper proposes the following draft model offences for consideration:

• Obtaining bodily material for genetic testing • the use of bodily material for genetic testing • and the disclosure or use of results from genetic testing.�

Download a copy of the discussion paper in pdf>

7 November 2008