Decriminalisation of sex work in Victoria

Brief synopsis: Tonight we look at the new Sex Work Decriminalisation Bill 2021 (Vic), which marks the most significant development in the sex workers’ rights movement in Victoria to date. Introduction: On 10 February 2022 the Sex Work Decriminalisation Bill 2021 was passed by Victorian Parliament. The new laws replace Victoria’s outdated licensing system, which criminalises consensual adult sex work. It represents the pinnacle of decades of advocacy by sex workers seeking to be treated in the same way as other workers, and will greatly improve the health and safety of workplaces where sex work occurs. Victoria is the fourth jurisdiction in the world to decriminalise sex work.  Guest: Tonight we’re lucky to be joined by Matthew, a sex worker and the Policy Officer at Sex Work Law Reform Victoria. Sex Work Law Reform Victoria is an independent non-partisan volunteer group led by sex workers, lobbying for the full decriminalisation of consensual adult sex work in Victoria. We spoke with Matthew on Done by Law last year when this bill was yet to be passed. Now, Matthew joins us again to talk about the impact of the passing of the bill, particularly in terms of anti-discrimination laws and issues of key importance to sex workers, such as the ability to work from home.