Qld set to totally decriminalise prostitution

Prostitution is already permitted in certain scenarios in Queensland. Now the Government is moving toward full decriminalisation.

The State Government has moved to totally decriminalise prostitution, referring the matter to the Queensland Law Reform Commission.

Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman will today announce she has asked for the review to investigate how to set up a new system of laws to improve the health, safety, human rights and legal protections for sex workers across the state.

There are currently just two forms of legalised sex work in Queensland – services provided at a licensed brothel, and when a person is working alone from a premises, providing in-house calls, outcall services, or both.

All other forms are illegal – including escort agencies, unlicensed brothels, massage parlours, street workers who publicly solicit and those who work in small groups – although they by far make up the majority of services being offered.

Women cannot operate in pairs, check in with a colleague before or after calls, work with another person providing them security, or employ another person to screen or book clients.

Ms Fentiman said feedback from the industry was that current laws were actually making things less safe.

“We need to ensure appropriate and modern laws are in place for the industry and its associated safe working arrangements, and that these are also in the best interests of the community,” Ms Fentiman said.

Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman

“The review will consider how best to provide appropriate safeguards to protect sex workers.

“Feedback from the sector has been that current laws criminalise safety strategies used by sex workers.

“A key focus of this review is the safety of workers and putting in place proper regulation so the industry doesn’t operate in the shadows.

“Sex workers shouldn’t have to choose between working legally and being safe at work.”

She said the QLRC would consult with the industry, and the community would also be able to provide submissions on the issue.

It will also consider laws in other jurisdictions, including the NT and NSW, which has already decriminalised sex work.

“This is an important step forward allowing us to consider what reform will benefit the industry and the agencies that provide support and regulation,” she said.

“It is our hope that these recommendations will help reduce the barriers sex workers and businesses face.

“These barriers include appropriate access to health, safety and legal protections – which are rights that should be afforded to every Queenslander.”

The commission will provide its report, including any draft legislation required, by November 27, 2022.

Originally published as Qld set to totally decriminalise prostitution