SIN Media Release
20/08/2026
New CBD rules risk worker safety
The South Australian Sex Industry Network (SIN) is concerned new planning restrictions for adult
entertainment premises will reduce workers’ access to safe, stable workplaces.
The rules exclude adult entertainment premises from key Adelaide CBD streets, precincts and
residential areas, as well as all of North Adelaide.
SIN Acting CEO Brass said the changes could entrench the existing limited number of venues and
reduce workers’ choice.
“Adult entertainment venues are workplaces, and sex workers must be included in decisions about
where and how those workplaces operate.”
“Reducing the number of available venues can limit workers’ ability to leave unsafe conditions,
report concerns and choose workplaces that meet their needs.”
SIN said venues should be assessed on their actual planning impacts, not excluded because they are
associated with sex work.
“We support appropriate regulation of adult venues. But fair planning means assessing each
proposal on evidence—not entrenching a duopoly or treating sex-worker workplaces differently
from other entertainment venues.”
SIN is calling for further consultation with sex workers and their representative organisations before
the changes proceed.
“No policy about sex-worker safety should be developed without meaningful input from sex
workers.”
SIN continues to advocate for the full decriminalisation of sex work in South Australia as the best
way to protect sex workers’ health, rights, dignity and safety.
“Decriminalisation is internationally recognised as best-practice sex industry legislation because it
enables sex workers to access the same work health and safety protections as other workers.”
“Sex work has been decriminalised in Queensland, the Northern Territory, New South Wales and
Victoria, while the ACT is progressing reforms in the same direction. South Australia is now out of
step with jurisdictions across the country.”
“It is long past time for South Australia to decriminalise sex work and ensure sex workers can work
safely, access essential services and exercise their rights without discriminatory laws or stigma.”
Media contact:
Brass, Acting CEO
South Australian Sex Industry Network (SIN)
(08) 8351 7626 | **@*****rg.au