Obeying God or the Government? NSW Conversion Practices Law with Neil Foster, Michael Stead & Simon Swadling

The Pastor's Heart with Dominic Steele

New South Wales’ Conversion Practices Ban Act has just come into effect — along with guidelines from Anti-Discrimination NSW that many Christian leaders believe overstep the legal boundaries and impact ordinary pastoral ministry.

We are joined by legal expert Associate Professor Neil Foster, South Sydney Bishop Michael Stead, and Summer Hill Anglican Assistant Minister Simon Swadling.

Together, we unpack the implications of the new law for Christian preaching, prayer, counselling, and discipleship — especially in matters of sexuality, marriage, and gender.

We discuss:

• The difference between the legislation and the government’s explanatory materials
• The implications for pastors, parents, and churches
• The tone and posture of faithful gospel ministry in a hostile legal environment
• Why some pastors are calling for civil disobedience — and others for restraint

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Conversion Therapy Legislation (00:00:00)

2. Pastoral Hearts for Same-Sex Attracted Christians (00:05:47)

3. Guidelines vs. Legislation Discrepancies (00:10:53)

4. Anti-Discrimination Board's Copied Guidelines (00:20:43)

5. Distinguishing Orientation from Behavior (00:25:54)

6. Pastoral Approaches and Legal Boundaries (00:34:42)

7. Prayer and Final Thoughts (00:39:25)