The law in Victoria is changing. Sex work is being decriminalised in two stages.
This means that sex industry specific laws are being removed and sex work will be regulated like all other work in Victoria.
Stage 1 began on 10 May 2022. This included several key health-related changes such as the repeal of mandatory 3-monthly STI testing for sex workers.
A new attribute has also been added to the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. The ‘profession, trade or occupation’ attribute means that sex workers cannot be treated unfairly or discriminated against because of their work.
Research has shown that sex workers in Victoria have a high level of sexual health knowledge. We can expect that sex workers will continue to get tested regularly.
Health services should make sure they understand the sex work reforms so they can provide high-quality and non-discriminatory care.
Visit the Victorian Department of Health website to find out more.
Notification forms for STIs have also been updated to reflect the sex work reforms, improve data collection and to digitise the notification process.
The Victorian Department of Health requires the collection of information about diagnoses of the following STIs as part of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008: syphilis, donovanosis, gonorrhoea, and HIV. Notification helps to monitor and control infectious conditions and prevent further illness at a population level.
The new secure online notification form is time-efficient, user-friendly and can be accessed on the Victorian Department of Health website. The old forms have been retired and for any queries, please contact 1300 651 160 or email infectious.diseases@health.vic.gov.au
Disclaimer: This article was provided by Victorian Department of Health. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.
