2 August 2007

NATS SEEK CHANGE TO BODY PIERCING LAWS

The National Party is pushing hard for a change to state laws so that body piercing on a person under 18 years of age can only be performed with parental consent.

Eastern Region MP Peter Hall said a notice of motion to change the law also called for the capacity to prosecute individuals or businesses who illegally carry out body piercing on underage people. The motion is set for debate in Parliament next Wednesday.

“The Nationals are keen to see a similar situation to tattooing, which is prohibited on people under the age of 18,” Mr Hall said. “While body piercings are not a permanent feature like a tattoo, the reality is there are health issues as well as safety issues that need be considered.

“It is appropriate that parental consent is a requirement so that health issues are properly considered and discussed.”

The Australian Medical Association has reported that complications arising from piercing procedures can include infections, speech impediments, breathing problems, increased tooth decay and broken teeth. Infections can also result in blood poisoning, toxic shock syndrome and blocked airways as well as the risk of HIV and hepatitis.

Mr Hall said there had been recent media reports of botched body piercing. “However, police are unable to charge the people performing the piercing because there are no current laws outlawing under aged body piercing,” he added.

Mr Hall said as the incidence of body piercing increases, especially for younger people, it was time to seek better regulations for the industry.

“This is not about ceasing the practice of body piercing, which appeals to some people. It is about making the industry more accountable and making sure that young people consider the possible consequences, with their parents, of this activity.

“We are urging the Government to act quickly before an underage person suffers from serious infections or health problems as a result of a body piercing.”

Mr Hall said he was keen to hear the views of members of the community, who were welcome to contact his office in Traralgon to express their opinion.

Mr Hall said The Nationals had received a number of complaints from distressed parents of children who had undergone body piercing without parental consent.

“The main aim of the amendment is to bring a particular focus to the interests and welfare of children.”

Media contact:                  Peter Hall      (03) 5174 7066   or 0427 747 066