The ‘girls’ And ‘boys’ Who Work Around The... (Press, 18 February 1983)

The article highlights the state of prostitution in Sydney's King's Cross area in 1983, revealing the involvement of New Zealanders and the challenges faced by sex workers. The Sydney police noted increasing participation from Kiwis in the local sex trade. The working conditions for many women in this area are described as dire, with several engaged in drug addiction, particularly heroin, which can cost as much as $600 daily to maintain. The narrative centres on a social worker named Tess Lim, who aims to assist these women, including Julie, a New Zealand sex worker aiming to travel to Europe. Julie earns $50 per transaction, but takes home only $20 after the parlour cut. Other encounters include Sadie, a former nightclub owner who manages a parlour for a New Zealander and remarks on the prevalence of heroin dependence among the workers. Tess interacts with various individuals, including Karen, a young woman struggling with drug issues, and Brian, a 17-year-old Maori boy working in male prostitution. Conversations reveal the despair and lack of options faced by these individuals, with many feeling trapped in their circumstances. The article also touches on the broader implications of local policing, citing a past incident where law enforcement raided a gay club in error, leading to arrests that sparked concerns over civil rights and safety among the LGBTQ+ community. Paul, a leader in the local gay community, expresses his frustration over police actions. As Tess navigates the streets, she points out that some of the sex workers are extremely young, highlighting the vulnerability of those involved. Her concern for the youth involved in prostitution is palpable, notably in her interactions with a 13-year-old girl named Cerina, who expressed a lack of desire to return to New Zealand. Detective-Sergeant John Ellsworthy, head of the Sydney vice squad, contributes insight on the demographics of sex workers, noting a notable presence of Maori individuals among drag queens and those struggling with addiction. He clarifies the limited legal framework governing prostitution in New South Wales and outlines the statistics concerning active prostitutes and parlours in Sydney. The police department's reputation is depicted as tarnished, with references to corruption and allegations of officers engaging in drug-related activities. However, there are assurances that reports of misconduct are taken seriously, with ongoing investigations leading to some convictions. The piece starkly portrays the challenges and societal issues entwined with the sex trade in King's Cross, emphasising the need for support and reform.

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