The Government of Western Australia is calling for community members, local government and other stakeholders to help refine its planning policy on brothels.

Planning Minister Alannah MacTiernan said under the proposal, which is expected to come into effect by the end of this year, any business that provides sexual services would require planning approval from the relevant local government.

Ms MacTiernan said: “Brothels, being sexual service business requiring a certificate, will be prohibited in residential areas or mixed residential/commercial areas.

“Business that operates without planning approval could face fines of up to $50,000 and additional daily penalties of $5,000 each day.”

The amendment legislation will also enable local governments to limit the operation of sexual service business in industrial areas.

“While sexual service businesses will be permitted in industrial areas, local governments can make decisions on the appropriateness of the specific location,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“Issues such as compatibility with other businesses and activities in the area, proximity to residences, schools and pedestrian thoroughfares and the provision for parking and lighting are to be taken into account as part of the approval process.
 
Copies of the draft guidelines are available at http://www.wapc.wa.gov.au/comment.