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The NSW Education Program on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a statewide Program that was established in September 1997. It is funded through the NSW Department of Health.
FGM, which is also known as female circumcision refers to the practice of partial or complete removal or cutting of the external female genitalia. The procedure is most often performed on girls or young women.
The aim of the program is to prevent the practice of FGM in NSW and to minimise the health and psychological impact of the practice for women, girls and their families affected by, or at risk of, FGM.
If any person is found guilty of performing, or arranging for FGM to be done to a female baby, a girl or a woman in NSW they can be imprisoned for up to 21 years.
A person is guilty of an offence if the person takes another person from the State, or arranges for another person to be taken from the State, with the intention of having female genital mutilation performed on the other person.
If you are concerned about the safety of a female baby, a girl or women being at risk of having FGM done to them in NSW or being taken out of NSW or Australia for this purpose contact:
NSW Police - Tel: 000
NSW FGM Program - Tel: (02) 9840 4182 or (02) 9840 3877
Child Protection Helpline - Tel: 132 111
The practice of FGM is prohibited by law in NSW and throughout Australia. The legislation applies to anyone who is usually a resident in NSW, whether or not FGM is performed within NSW or overseas.
FGM threatens the health and welfare of children and young people and is an abuse of human rights.
Reporting your concerns can help to protect the health and welfare of girls at risk of FGM. Child Protection is a community responsibility.
The belief that FGM is a traditional religious or cultural practice should not stop you from taking action.
If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of FGM report it immediately to:
The Child Protection Helpline on 132 111 (TTY 1800 212 936) for the cost of a local call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
or the NSW Police on 000
Click here for further child protection contacts
You should also contact the Child Protection Helpline and the NSW Education Program on FGM if you know of someone who has already undergone the procedure. They may require specialist health care and support and other girls in their family may be at risk.
If you are a community organisation, government agency or health or welfare professional interested in receiving training on FGM, visit our Information for Health Professionals page.
Download a copy of our service brochure to find out more about the practice of FGM, legislation in NSW as well as our aims, objectives and programs.
Providing culturally appropriate care for women, girls and families affected by FGM
This one day workshop is open to all professionals who may come into contact with women girls and families affected by FGM. To find out more, visit our Information for Health Professionals page.