The Bill, introduced by Family First member of the legislative council Robert Brokenshire, would see the age of consent for medical treatments rise from 16 to 18 years.

Mr Brokenshire said the private member’s Bill evolved from consultation with the community.

“A lot of constituents raised the issue that as parents they aren’t being given the opportunity to talk to their kids about complicated medical procedures,” he said.

“The Government is talking about not allowing driving licences until the age of 18 but they are allowing young people to decide on medical procedures from the age of 16, if not younger.”

Mr Brokenshire said parents needed to be given the opportunity to discuss major procedures such as cosmetic surgery, abortions and lap-band surgery.

“Parents want the opportunity to support their kids and may want to make sure they get counselling,” he said.

“Most parents are loving and caring.”

Despite concerns raised by the Youth Affairs Council of South Australia that young people would be denied access to treatment Mr Brokenshire said the Bill was not aimed at basic procedures.

“Family First is not advocating that someone who cuts their finger can’t get stitches,” he said.