The Dunedin Model: Dunedin Sex Worker Experiences Under Decriminalisation in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Background: The Prostitution Reform Act 2003 (PRA) decriminalised sex work in New Zealand and represents a best practice model for sex work legislation (Radačić, 2017, p.2). This article is based on a project that focuses on Dunedin, New Zealand, due to the absence of council bylaws that may contradict the PRA and a lack of post-decriminalisation research. Methods: The project involved qualitative, semi-structured interviews with seven Dunedin-based sex workers and one brothel manager in 2018 to determine what decriminalisation can look like under the legislation of the PRA. The analysis and methodology are framed by feminist standpoint theory. Results: This article concludes that the PRA is successful when (a) the operators (managers) adhere fully to the provisions of the PRA and the NZPC guidelines, (b) sex workers are confident and knowledgeable about their rights under the legislation, and (c) councils do not introduce bylaws that contradict the provisions of the PRA. Success is defined as a system that ensures workers’ rights and equitable and fair treatment. I name this success the ‘Dunedin Model’. Conclusions: Wider implications of this model include (a) the importance of creating situated legislation based on the recommendations of socially situated people, who possess the knowledge necessary to create it; (b) the necessity of full adherence to this legislation by both management and local councils; and (c) the obligation to allow for, create and maintain systems that allow for persons to be aware of their rights.