Operate a sex services business

If you want to operate a sex services business that has three or more sex workers, you must apply for a suitability certificate.

What a sex services business does

A sex services business provides for, or arranges, sex work.

This includes services provided on the premises or in a different location.

Individuals, companies, partnerships and body corporates can apply for a suitability certificate.

To apply, you must meet the following criteria:

be at least 18 years old
have not been found guilty of a relevant offence – see below
have not been bankrupt
have not had a suitability certificate or similar certificate revoked in another state or territory.

You can't apply for a suitability certificate if you have been found guilty of any of these indictable offences:

dangerous drug use or possession - other than, less than a traffickable quantity
assault
sexual assault
fraud or dishonesty
theft
against the Fair Work Act 2009 (Commonwealth) or a work health and safety law.

You must apply for a suitability certificate before you operate your sexual services business.

If you are a body corporate or partnership, you must apply for a suitability certificate for:

An executive officer of a body corporate is someone who is a director or takes part in the management of the organisation.

To apply by mail, email, fax or in person, follow these steps:

Step 2. Pay the $141 application fee.

Step 3. Submit your application and fee at any Territory Business Centre.

If your application is approved, you will receive your certificate in the post.

You won’t need to renew your certificate while you operate your business.

If you move to another sexual services business, you will need to apply for a separate certificate.

There are guidelines you must follow if you want to advertise your sexual services business.

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