BHN celebrates decriminalisation of sex work
After years of advocating for sex workers, Better Health Network (BHN) is delighted the final stage of decriminalisation of sex work in Victoria, will come into effect on Friday 1 December.
The last step in this legislative change sees Victoria become the third Australian jurisdiction to decriminalise sex work, following decades of advocacy and activism from sex workers and supporters.
BHN CEO, Damian Ferrie, said the new law represents a significant cultural milestone in acknowledging the legitimacy of the sex work industry in Victoria and ensuring sex workers have the same safety, opportunity and security that workers in other environments are entitled to.
“Every Victorian worker, no matter their industry, deserves to feel safe in their workplace – sex work is no different. Decriminalisation will strengthen protections and reduce discrimination and stigma against sex workers. It will help ensure sex work is safe, workers’ safety is increased, and their health and human rights are improved,” he said.
BHN operates Resourcing health & Education (RhED) for the Victorian sex industry – providing site-based and outreach services in collaboration with other health promoting activity.
“On behalf of BHN I would like to congratulate sex workers and sex worker organisations, allies and peak bodies who have tirelessly fought for decriminalisation of sex work in Victoria,” Mr Ferrie said.
He added that while much has been achieved through the change, there is still much work to do to advance the health, wellbeing and self-determination of sex workers in Victoria.
“While we applaud the community for securing this historic reform and celebrate this historic achievement, we will continue to advocate for the complete decriminalisation of street-based sex work and the best interests and rights of sex workers in Victoria.
For more information and support available through RhED, visit www.sexworker.org.au
MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Youna Kim
M 0428 479 017