Tony went through 'hell' due to unnecessary surgery as a child
Tony Briffa said she has gone through “hell” after an unnecessary medical procedure led to decades of consequences. 
Born with lumps in a Victorian hospital, doctors confirmed she had an intersex variation called Androgen Insensitivity – a rare condition that prevents the body from responding to the male hormones.

She presented as female externally, but internally, she had testes instead of ovaries.

Tony Briffa is now a strong advocate for intersex Australians. (Victorian Parliament)

These changes do not pertain to any immediate or essential medical treatments.

Briffa was present in the Victorian parliament gallery as the laws were passed, and she became emotional when discussing the momentous occasion.

“I’ve dedicated 26 years to advocating for these reforms,” she expressed.

“I never allowed myself to imagine this day would come. I think of all the people and families I’ve supported over the years, including those who are no longer with us, and this achievement is in their honor.

“This will make a significant difference for children, and I hope it inspires other regions in Australia to implement similar measures.”

It follows similar legislation in the ACT.

The territory was the first in the country to protect intersex people from deferrable surgeries until they can consent.

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