Sex Industry Facts

Everything you wanted to know about the Sex Industry, but were afraid to ask. A general client resource from the Sex Workers Outreach Project SWOP.

  • Sex work has been decriminalised in some states of Australia, such as in NSW, NT, VIC and QLD.
  • Australian states and territories have different laws governing where sex workers are allowed to work.
  • Sex workers come from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
  • All sex workers are different and have their unique personal style.
  • Male, female and trans people work in the sex industry.
  • When a client sees a sex worker, the client is paying for a service. Prices may vary according to the service. The client needs to find out what the service involves.
  • Fees are paid before the service. Refunds are not given, for instance, if the client’s expectations are not met.
  • Sex workers have health & safety rights and responsibilities.
  • Sex workers examine clients for signs of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) before a service. If they believe a client may have an infection they have a right to refuse to see the client.
  • Condoms, dams, water based lube and gloves are used in the sex industry to protect the client and worker. They help to reduce the transmission of STIs and HIV. Sex workers can insist on safe sex practices and if the client refuses, the worker may not provide the service.
  • Assault in the sex industry, just like anywhere else is a crime. If a client assaults or rapes a sex worker, the client can be charged and taken to court.
  • If you are happy with the service, show it with a tip and not just with a kiss!

Information adapted from The Sex Workers Outreach Project and The Multicultural HIV/AIDS Service and reproduced with kind permission.

Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWOP)
PO Box 1354, Strawberry Hills
NSW 2012 Australia

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