From horn implants to split tongues and scrotal injections
– extreme forms of body art, sometimes called 'body
modifications', are becoming increasingly popular and gaining
greater social acceptance.
But Australian law doesn't seem to be keeping up with
changing attitudes regarding such forms of self-expression.
Body Art and the Law
Standard tattoos and piercings are accepted forms of body art in
Australia, and are regulated by public health laws and local
council bylaws in all States and Territories.
In NSW, the Tattoo Parlours Act 2012 requires all tattooing
businesses and their staff to be licensed. Tattooing without a
licence carries a maximum penalty of 100 penalty units, or $11,000,
as well as a criminal record.
