Tougher Laws Against Illegal Brothels
The Victorian Government has introduced new laws into Parliament, to make Victoria Police the lead agency for the enforcement of laws relating to the sex work industry and to reduce unlawful conduct.
"The amendments will remove barriers to Victoria Police taking action against illegal brothel operators and properly balance the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies and licensing authorities,” Minister for Consumer Affairs, Michael O'Brien said.
"This bill provides Victoria Police with the power to investigate brothels operating without the required planning permit, and seek orders to effectively shut down illegal brothels, similar to the powers already available to local government,” Mr O'Brien said.
Consumer Affairs Victoria will retain powers to bring court action against any licensed operator who breaches sex work laws and will remain primarily responsible for monitoring compliance with the licensing system.
Proceeds of crime provisions in the Confiscation Act 1997 will also apply to sex work-related offences, so that those convicted of such offences will face losing their assets.
These powers also are widened to apply to the offences related to illegal advertising, as well as serious sexual offences under the Crimes Act 1958.
Victoria Police and Consumer Affairs Victoria are working together with other agencies and have set up an illegal brothel taskforce, involving local councils, Australian Federal Police, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship and the Australian Taxation Office.
The Victoria Sex Industry Strategic Management Group is developing an approach to enhance the sharing of information and intelligence to assist in the identification, arrest and prosecution of illegal brothel operators in Victoria.