Australian Sex Work Laws 2025: State by State Guide

Understanding Sex Work Legislation in Australia

Sex work laws vary significantly across Australian states and territories. This guide provides an overview of current legislation to help escorts understand their legal rights and obligations.

New South Wales

NSW has the most liberal sex work laws in Australia:

• Private escort work is fully decriminalized
• No licensing required for independent escorts
• Brothels require council approval
• Street-based work has some restrictions

Victoria

Victoria operates a licensing system:

• Private escorts can work without a license
• Brothels and escort agencies require licensing
• Recent reforms have simplified regulations
• Advertising has specific guidelines

Queensland

Queensland has stricter regulations:

• Solo operators can work legally
• Working with others requires licensing
• Specific advertising restrictions apply
• Brothels must be licensed

Western Australia

• Private escort work is legal
• Brothels are illegal
• Specific containment provisions apply

South Australia

• Sex work exists in legal grey area
• Brothels are illegal
• Private escort work has fewer restrictions
• Reform discussions ongoing

Tasmania

• Sex work is decriminalized
• Private escorts can operate legally
• No licensing requirements

ACT (Canberra)

• Sex work is fully legal
• Escorts can operate independently
• Brothels can be licensed

Northern Territory

• Escort agencies can be licensed
• Private work has specific regulations
• Darwin has local guidelines

Important Notes

Laws change frequently. Always verify current regulations in your state. This guide is informational only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a lawyer for specific legal questions.