The Queensland Government has taken a step towards
decriminalising sex work, recognising it as work and not as a
crime. The Queensland Law Reform Commission was asked to
conduct a review and recommend a framework for a decriminalised sex
work industry in Queensland. This was requested with the aim of
enhancing safety, promoting health, and protecting the human rights
of those working in the industry.
Why Changes Are Needed
The current system of regulating sex work as prostitution under
criminal laws and licensing laws is flawed.
It stigmatises sex workers, increases their vulnerability to
exploitation and violence, and fails to protect their human rights.
It also prevents sex workers from working together and adopting
safe work practices, creating barriers to accessing health, safety,
and legal protections. Decriminalisation is needed to address these
issues and create a safer environment for sex workers to operate
in.
