The Department of Justice is currently studying the review of a decriminalised framework for the sex work industry completed by the Queensland Law Reform Commission (QLRC).
The QLRC proposed 47 recommendations to cover a framework to enact a safe and decriminalised sex work industry while improving the health, safety, rights and legal protections for its workers.
Attorney General, Shannon Fentiman said the Government broadly supported the recommendations and was committed to decriminalising the sex work industry to protect the rights of all Queenslanders, while balancing the needs and expectations of the community.
“The QLRC review included extensive evidence-based research and consultation with stakeholder groups and the public, while considering laws in other Australian jurisdictions, including the Northern Territory, Victoria, NSW and New Zealand,” Ms Fentiman said.
“Its findings note the need for a modernisation of Queensland laws and legislation surrounding the sex work industry.”
She said that as part of its review, the QLRC found that a majority of submissions from across the State were overwhelmingly opposed to any continued criminal law specifically targeting sex workers.
“The Law Reform Commission found that the current laws stigmatise sex workers, increase their vulnerability to exploitation and violence and fail to protect their human rights,” the Attorney General said.
“The review has provided the opportunity to consider how best to modernise our laws, support business in the State, and reduce discrimination and stigma associated with workers in the sex work industry.”
She said her Department was now considering how to best implement laws and regulations that would afford sex workers the same rights and legal protections as any other business or industry.
A 20-page summary of the report can be accessed at this PS News link and the full report from this PS News link.
