Australian Doctor Loses Medical License Over Social Media Criticism of Social Issues - Free Speech Concerns Rise

A medical professional in Australia has lost his license after being found guilty of professional misconduct, not for providing inadequate patient care, but for expressing critical opinions on social media regarding abortion, LGBT issues, and COVID-19 measures. Dr. Jereth Kok, who was suspended over six years ago, was stripped of his medical credentials following a ruling by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) on July 25. The tribunal determined that 54 out of 85 social media posts made over a 12-year span constituted misconduct under national law. The Human Rights Law Alliance (HRLA), representing Dr. Kok, expressed concern that this decision sets a troubling precedent for free speech in Australia, especially for professionals with Christian or conservative beliefs. They emphasized that regulatory bodies like AHPRA and the Medical Board have extended their authority to discipline practitioners not only for their clinical work but also for holding and expressing unpopular social or moral views, even privately. Critics, including Australia’s Family First organization, condemned the ruling, calling it a gross injustice and a threat to free expression. They argued t...