Lauren Renshaw, Jules Kim
Canberra: Australian Institute of Criminology, November 2015

In this report the Australian Institute of Criminology, in partnership with Scarlet Alliance, the Australian Sex Workers Association, presents one of the first pieces of research specifically conducted on the work and migration experiences of migrant sex workers in Australia.

Surveying a large sample of migrant and non-migrant sex workers across a range of states and territories in Australia, the study has enabled an assessment to be made of the demographic profile, work conditions and access to services of migrant sex workers.

It contrasts and compares the experiences of migrant sex workers with those of Australian-born sex workers. The migration experiences and motivations of respondents for migrating to Australia are also documented and the possible pathways migrants may take in engaging in sex work are described, along with an analysis of the specific needs and services required by this group..

There has been little research conducted on the experiences of migrant sex workers both internationally and within Australia. This is despite widespread media and other reports highlighting the perception of migrant sex workers as particularly vulnerable to exploitation and human trafficking. This report focuses on consolidating current knowledge of migrants in the Australian sex industry, based on a review of the existing literature and an analysis of responses to a survey conducted among migrant and non-migrant sex workers in a range of states and territories in Australia in 2010

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