A powerful international legal advocacy organisation, known for its conservative Christian stance on social issues, has entered a dispute over sex education in a South Australian school, backing a mother who is contemplating legal action.
Controversial Presentation Sparks Legal Threat
Nicki Gaylard alleges that her daughter and other Year 9 students at Renmark High School were exposed to inappropriate material during a presentation by Headspace Berri last year. The session, intended to promote inclusivity, reportedly included references to incest and bestiality, which Gaylard claims deeply affected her child and "shortened her childhood".
The South Australian education department has called the incident isolated and unacceptable, confirming that steps have been taken to prevent a recurrence. Headspace National, after a review, acknowledged that aspects of the external presenter's content were not suitable for young people and has since strengthened guidance for its centres.
The Global Legal Group Stepping In
The group offering support is ADF International, the global arm of the US-based Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF). In a press release, ADF International stated it is supporting Gaylard's proposed action. Its advocacy director, Robert Clarke, framed the case as "not about ideology", though the release criticised "radical approaches to sex education" being "quietly rolled out" in schools.
The ADF describes its mission as advancing "a Christian view of marriage and sexuality" and championing religious freedom, free speech, and parental rights. However, it faces significant criticism. The US Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) designates the ADF as a hate group, accusing it of historically supporting the criminalisation of homosexuality and promoting anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric—claims the ADF vehemently denies.
A History of Influence and Controversy
The organisation's influence extends globally. In the US, the ADF celebrated its role in overturning Roe v. Wade. In Australia, former Prime Minister Tony Abbott addressed the group twice, in 2016 and 2017, drawing criticism from politicians like then-Greens senator Robert Simms.
Expert Elenie Poulos, an adjunct fellow at Macquarie University, notes the ADF has a "huge" impact and a long, aggressive history of lobbying against LGBTQ+ rights. She expressed concern about ADF International's expansion, stating its "aggressive anti-gay stance is extremely harmful".
An ADF International spokesperson dismissed accusations of being anti-gay or anti-trans as "tired" and "false", arguing they distract from core issues of dignity and freedom.
