Funding Success for the Sex Worker Legal Program

We’re thrilled to share that the Sex Worker Legal Program (SWLP) has secured funding from the Victorian Government, ensuring the continuation of the program for the next three years.

After significant public and private advocacy, the Victorian Government has committed to ensuring the Sex Worker Legal Program can continue for a further three years.

This funding is a vital investment in the rights, safety, and wellbeing of sex workers across Victoria. Since its inception in 2022, the SWLP has provided specialist, trauma-informed legal assistance to sex workers facing a range of complex legal issues – from workplace rights and discrimination to personal safety and sexual assault. The program has delivered over 900 legal tasks and built strong, trusted relationships with the sex worker community.

While this funding allows us to maintain our current service, it does not cover the full amount we sought to expand the program. Demand continues to grow, and we remain committed to securing additional resources to extend our reach and impact.

We particularly acknowledge the role of the Attorney-General, Sonya Kilkenny, and the Department of Justice and Community Safety in supporting this outcome.

Importantly, we would like to extend our deepest thanks to all those in the community, led fiercely by sex workers, who advocated for this outcome.

In particular, our program partners and parliamentary advocates:

  • Vixen
  • RhED Program at Better Health Network
  • St Kilda Gatehouse
  • Georgie Purcell MP
  • Rachel Payne MP
  • Katherine Copsey MP

We also acknowledge the invaluable support of the Victorian Legal Services Board, who has ensured the continuation of the program for the past 2.5 years.

For more information about the SWLP, including referral to our service, visit our webpage here.

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