Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association

@scarletalliance

National peak body for sex workers & sex worker organisations in unceded Australia. Fighting for our rights, health & safety since 1989.

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Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· 19d

On Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 July, sex worker organisations from Australia and Thailand gave testimonies to an expert panel at the Feminist Inquiry into Violence against Sex Workers, organised by ARC Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (CEVAW)

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· 23d

We're looking for our next CEO. We're looking for a leader with sex work experience, strategic vision, and a commitment to community accountability. Head to buff.ly/h7cIe9H to read the full position description and application details. Applications close 5:00pm AEST, 31 July 2026.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· 27d

There are just three more days to get your idea ready for a sex worker-led session at the 2026 National Forum. This year conference will be held on Kaurna Country (Adelaide) from 17-19 November. Submissions close at 11.59pm this Sunday, 19 July. Find the submission form at linktr.ee/scarlet_alliance

NATIONAL FORUM IS BETTER
WITH YOU.Time is running out to submit your idea for a sex worker-led session at National Forum in November! Submissions close this Sunday, 19 July.

The Scarlet Alliance National Forum is a sex worker only conference.It is held annually, with the 2026 event held from 17-19 November on Kaurna Country (Adelaide).
National Forum provides an opportunity for sex workers to come together to network and talk about what is important to us. It includes peer-led sessions like workshops, panels, presentations and events.
Do you have skills, knowledge, or experience to share with other sex workers?
We want to hear your ideas for sex worker-led sessions at National Forum on Kaurna Country (Adelaide), 17–19 November. You don't need to be an experienced presenter, we're looking for sessions that come from peer knowledge, lived experience, and practical skills. Applications close this 11.59pm this Sunday, 19 July.

Tell us your session idea for National Forum 2026.Forum is about sharing our skills, knowledge, and experience in sex work, organising, and advocacy. What are the issues affecting sex workers currently, and how can we influence these?
You will need to fill in an online application for your idea which includes a session outline, why it matters, and how you will engage your audience. We are looking for ideas that come from peer knowledge and skills. This could include:
Traditional presentations and panels.
Workshops and skill building sessions that sex workers can apply to their work.
Interactive lunchtime activities and social and networking events.

Submissions should be about sharing something with the room. We are not seeking consultation sessions or sessions that ask for feedback or advice on a project, service or idea. If your session touches on potentially difficult topics, please consider how you will keep people safe, supported, and respected. Some topic inspiration:
Digital security skillshare.Sex work and ageing.Criminalisation of survival and poverty.Building alliances with disability and migrant justice and prison abolition movements.The religious right and anti-porn movements: mapping actors and strategy.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jul 10

Are you across the latest changes to My Health Record? Swipe through to read our latest flyer on how your privacy may be affected, and share with a sex worker friend.

Protect your privacy.
Recent changes to My Health Record create privacy concerns for sex workers. Learn what has changed and what you can do to protect your medical information.

My Health Record is an online record of your health history, including sexually transmissible infection (STI) test results.
My Health Record (MHR) is run by the Australian Government, and can be accessed by any healthcare provider involved in your care. These providers may include:
DOCTORS AND NURSES
Medical providers and admin staff at general practitioner (GP), specialist clinics or hospitals.
PHARMACISTS
Staff at chemists (or pharmacies), or anywhere you get prescriptions filled.
ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

ReceFrom July 2026, unless you ask them not to, labs must upload test results (including STI tests) to MHR. This creates privacy concerns for sex workers.How will the changes affect me?
Sex workers choose to see different healthcare providers for different reasons. For example, you might visit a sexual health clinic for STI testing but see your family doctor for general healthcare. You may not have disclosed all aspects of your life, work, or health history to that doctor.

From July 2026, your regular doctor will be able to view your STI test results if they are uploaded to MHR. For some sex workers, this may feel like a loss of privacy or control over who can access their sensitive health information. Understanding how MHR works, and what options you have, can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and privacy.
You may have MHR and not realise. Unless you’ve already opted out, every person with a Medicare card also has MHR.

You can opt out of My Health Record completely, or manage your privacy settings to control who can access your information.

You can cancel or manage your My Health Record by calling the helpline on 1800 723 471, using the 1800Medicare or Healthdirect apps, or through your myGov account.

Cancelling your My Health Record permanently deletes all information stored in the My Health Record system. However, healthcare providers may still keep copies of your health records in their own practice systems.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jul 7

It's NAIDOC Week! Celebrating 50 Years of Deadly, this week is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander excellence. Head to linktr.ee/scarlet_alliance to find the NAIDOC Week educational resources, an to donate to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sex worker advisory group.

50 YEARS OF NAIDOC WEEK
5-12 July is NAIDOC Week. This annual celebration recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

NAIDOC Week is celebrated in the first week of July every year and has been for five decades. To celebrate this milestone, this year’s NAIDOC theme is “50 Years of Deadly”.

NAIDOC Week was born out of one of the world’s first civil rights gatherings. On 26 January 1938, protestors demonstrating
for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people, marched
through the streets of Sydney in what
was known as the Day of Mourning.

In 1955 the day was moved to the first Sunday in July after it was decided it should be a celebration as well. In 1974, it became a week long event.

What happens during NAIDOC Week?
Across the country, communities celebrate NAIDOC Week with local events and the NAIDOC Committee awards grants. The flagship NAIDOC Week event is the National NAIDOC Awards ceremony which celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander excellence in various fields.
Get involved with NAIDOC Week.
Download the NAIDOC Week educational resources from naidoc.org.au and/or attend a NAIDOC event.Read books and purchase artwork by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors and artists.
Support an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business or community organisation.You can also donate to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sex worker advisory group via the ‘Donate’ section at linktr.ee/scarlet_alliance

Artwork shown is Paralpi by Zaachariaha Fielding | 2026 Winner
The National NAIDOC Week Poster Competition is a prestigious part of the celebration with a rich history beginning in 1967. This year’s winning work, depicts the sounds of Paralpi, a significant place just outside Mimili on the Eastern APY Lands in South Australia.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jul 5

The good news: UTI can be easy to prevent and treat.Fortunately there are a few things you can do to try and prevent UTI from giving you grief.Always change condoms when you switch between anal and vaginal sex.Avoid vaginal douches and/or spermicide products.Try to pee in between
bookings, schedule bathroom breaks for longer sessions and stay hydrated!Make sure you completely empty your bladder every time you pee, and wipe front to back.

If you have a UTI and over-the counter treatment hasn’t cleared it up within 48 hours, you need to see a doctor.If you think you have a UTI, or if treatment is not working, don’t ignore it. If a UTI is left untreated, it can lead to serious kidney and bladder infections.
Your doctor may do a physical examination or urine test, depending on your symptoms.
They may also prescribe you an antibiotic. Symptoms generally clear up within a few
days of taking the antibiotic. UTI can reoccur,
so talk to your doctor if it happens frequently.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jul 5

For some of us, dealing with urinary tract infections (UTI) is unfortunately, a common thing. There are a few things that you can try to prevent a UTI from giving you trouble. Swipe for the tips, then share with a sex worker friend who can use them. Visit redbookonline.org.au.

UTI SURVIVAL GUIDE
Here is why your urinary tract might be asking for better working conditions.

Feeling like you really need to pee, when you only just went to the bathroom. Burning and stinging when you do go. Pain in the lower abdomen. Dark, cloudy or smelly urine.
These are all symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). A UTI happens when bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause an infection. There are different types of UTIs depending on which part of the urinary tract is affected, including the urethra, bladder or kidneys. While UTI aren't sexually transmitted, sex can increase the chance of bacteria entering the urinary tract, making a UTI more likely.

Who is more likely to get a UTI?
UTI are fairly common, although people with a vagina are more likely to get them. The urethra in a vulva is short and straight which makes it easier for germs to travel into the urinary tract.

Some people are more prone to UTI at certain times in their menstrual cycle. An increase in sexual activity can also contribute to UTI, which can explain why back to back bookings may trigger a UTI in some workers.Sex can make it easier for bacteria to end up where they’re not wanted. Excessive friction during vaginal sex can contribute too.

Can I still take bookings if I have a UTI?Short answer is yes, UTI are not contagious. The long answer is that UTI symptoms can make sex uncomfortable or painful. If you’re on medication to treat a UTI, remember that some antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraception.Frequent UTI are not a sign of poor hygiene, but they might be a sign that something needs attention.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jul 3

On National Day of Protest, we recognise the power of collective action among the sex work community and resist increasing threats that restrict the right to protest. Sign the Declaration of our Right to Protest buff.ly/Qb6XFbJ

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jul 3

Not all wh*res have claws, but those who do are definitely sick of people asking how they work with them. Swipe for some cultural history on long nails and some tips on safer sex with a stiletto manicure. Share this with a sex worker friend. 💅

THOSE NAILS LOOK... DANGEROUS
Don’t listen to the haters who say you can’t do sex work or kink services with sharp claws.

Long, sparkly, elaborately decorated nails wouldn’t exist without women of colour.
Long before elaborate nail art was embraced by the mainstream as a global beauty trend, Black women were creating and wearing colourful, heavily embellished nail designs as a form of creativity and self-expression.
When acrylic nails were introduced in the mid-20th century, white, heteronormative beauty standards favoured French manicures and pastel, neutral shades. Bold nail aesthetics worn by women of colour (some of whom were LGBTQ+, and sex workers) were dismissed as "lower class" or “unprofessional”.

Not just for looks: long nails for extra services. False (or fake) nails are extensions added to natural fingernails using materials such as acrylic or gel. For many sex workers, long nails are not just for visual appeal or fashion; they can also enhance the sensory experience for clients.Lightly dragging nails across the skin or gentle head scratches can feel pleasurable and intimate. You can incorporate long nails into BDSM bookings. For example, combining nails with other sensory tools or as pain play. Some clients may have a fetish for long or false nails so you may be able to charge
more for this as an extra or fetish service.

Nail it: safer sex tips for wh*res with claws.If you like the aesthetic of long fingernails but provide penetrative services with your fingers, you could try a ‘queer’ manicure where two fingernails are kept short while the others are long. This can reduce the risk of scratching your client during vaginal or anal penetration. You can also cover sharp tips with tissue and wear nitrile or latex gloves. Alternatively, stuffing cotton wool into the tips of the glove will reduce the risk of them tearing. If you like the tissue or cotton wool idea but don’t need a whole glove, try a finger cot!

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jun 28

June 30 is the end of the financial year, so now is the perfect time to donate to our work if you can! Your support keeps our work responsive and able to sustain the advocacy, policy and sector support that falls outside of our general funding's scope. Donate here: www.givenow.com.au/scarletallia...

HELP US CONTINUE FIGHTING FOR SEX WORKERS
It’s almost the end of financial year! Your donations enable us to be responsive and support work that does not receive government funding.

Your support makes a difference.
As the financial year draws to a close, now is the perfect time to support our work. We know many people are doing it tough in the cost-of-living crisis, so if you’re not in a position to donate, sharing this post still makes a difference in reaching those who can.
Our rights are under attack from emboldened anti-sex-work actors, whose politics are often aligned with anti-trans, anti-migrant and anti-women agendas. Scarlet Alliance continues to stand and fight for decriminalisation, dignity, safety and justice.

Scarlet Alliance does not receive flexible core funding, which means much of our work is either tied directly to project grants or self-funded. While our STI and BBV prevention work and new migration project are government funded, donations help us remain responsive and sustain the advocacy, policy and sector support work that falls outside funding scopes, keeping Scarlet Alliance vibrant, sustainable and able to meet emerging needs.

Anyone can make a donation, and if it’s over $2, it’s tax deductible! Head to linktr.ee/scarlet_alliance or givenow.com.au/scarletalliance
If you’re a philanthropist interested in discussing other giving options, please contact mish.pony@scarletalliance.org.au

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jun 25

You don't need to be a skilled presenter to host a workshop or session at National Forum. All you need is knowledge that can benefit other sex workers and we've put together a few past session examples to inspire you! Head to linktr.ee/scarlet_alliance to find the session submission form.

TEACH US YOUR TRICKS
Share your sex work skills, knowledge, and experience at this year’s National Forum on Kaurna Country (Adelaide), taking place from 17–19 November 2026.

The Scarlet Alliance National Forum is the annual sex worker only conference in unceded Australia.
National Forum provides an opportunity for sex workers to come together to network and talk about what is important to us. It includes peer-led sessions like workshops, panels, presentations and events.
Do you have skills, knowledge, or experience to share with other sex workers?
Submit your idea for a sex worker-led session at National Forum on Kaurna Country (Adelaide), 17–19 November. You don't need to be an experienced presenter, we're looking for sessions that come from peer knowledge, lived experience, and practical skills. Applications close 19 July. If you're looking for inspiration, check out a few sessions from previous years to get your ideas flowing.

Need some inspiration?
You don't need to be an experienced presenter to run a great session at National Forum. If you have knowledge, skills, or experiences that could benefit other sex workers, you already have something valuable to share. Here are some examples from previous years to inspire your submission.
F**king your lover...on the clock.
Jenna and Katia held a discussion about the unique adventures and challenges of bringing their partners into their work. This light-hearted chat was full of
humorous anecdotes, candid oversharing, and special guests.
Private advertising hacks.
Rosie’s 2024 session was a structured skill-share focused on creating effective private ads, covering topics like branding, photography, and social media. The session left participants better equipped to explore new income avenues.

Building sex worker cooperatives.
Participants in Mama B, River, Paprika, and Tilly’s 2025 session gained an understanding on what a sex worker cooperative is, and where in unceded Australia it may be possible to start one.
Sex worker storytelling.
At the 2025 National Forum, Hilary Caldwell and G Pleitez held a workshop to empower sex workers to write their own story and to share tips on finding their voice, privacy, and privilege.
The brothel hustle.
From nailing the client intro to keeping the vibe sexy in a health check, Nyla, Katia, Salem and Greta shared their tips as experienced brothel and massage workers. The workshop offered concrete skills and scripts for participants to follow.
If you’ve got an idea for a skillshare, workshop or session at National Forum 2026, we want to know about it. Head to linktr.ee/scarlet_alliance to find the Scarlet Alliance 2026 National Forum session submission form.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jun 16

Need a little inspiration for your session idea?
Here are some comments from last year’s attendees on what they would love to see in 2026.
“Sex work and sustainability, like a self-care practices workshop. How to work within your capacity and means.”
“I’d love to see more sessions focused on practical skills that people can apply directly to their work, like how to do a health check or negotiating condom use.”
“Workshops on financial discrimination and online safety.”
“More disability involvement, sessions, workshops and speakers!”

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jun 16

We want to hear from you at National Forum! Submissions are open for sex worker-run sessions until 19 July. Submit your idea at buff.ly/ZazL0eb

SHARE YOUR SKILLS AT NATIONAL FORUM 2026
Ever attended National Forum and thought, “I’d love to present a session?” Well, now is your chance! Submissions for sex worker-run sessions are open until 19 July.

The Scarlet Alliance National Forum is a
sex worker only event.
It is held annually, with the 2026 event held from 17-19 November on Kaurna Country (Adelaide).
National Forum provides an opportunity for sex workers to come together to network and talk about what is important to us. It includes peer-led sessions, such as workshops, panels, presentations and events.

Whether you’re an experienced worker or new to the community, National Forum is a great place to develop peer education skills and learn about policies and laws.
Registrations to attend National Forum will open in August. So for now, save the following dates: Tuesday 17, Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 November 2026.

Got a great idea for a session to run at the 2026
National Forum?
Submissions for sex worker-run sessions are open from now until 19 July.
You will need to fill in an online application for your idea which includes a session outline, why it matters, and how you will engage your audience. We are looking for ideas that come from peer knowledge and skills. This could include:
Traditional presentations and panels.
Workshops and skill building sessions that sex workers can apply to their work.
Interactive lunchtime activities and social and networking events.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· Jun 2

On 2 June 1975, around 200 sex workers occupied a church in Lyon, France to protest police harassment, violence, discrimination. . Their eight day occupation sparked a global movement for sex worker rights and is why we mark International Whores' Day each year. . #InternationalWhoresDay

IN 1975, SEX WORKERS IN LYON SAID: ENOUGH
Today we acknowledge their legacy on International Whores’ Day.

On 2 June 1975, around 200 sex workers occupied Saint-Nizier Church in Lyon, France.
Why were sex workers protesting?
In the 1970s, French sex workers faced: Constant police raids Fines and arrests Loss of income and housing Surveillance and harassment
Their children being taken from them

The final straw...
Police crackdowns intensified in Lyon. Workers reported being repeatedly targeted, pushed further underground and left less able to work safely. After years of being ignored, they decided to take action where nobody could look away.
Slide shows a picture of the occupation with a banner that reads ‘the prostitutes of Lyon have taken refuge in this church’.

On 2 June 1975, sex workers (many with their children) and their supporters entered Saint Nizier Church and refused to leave. They hung banners, spoke to journalists, organised collectively, and demanded an end to police repression. For eight days, the church became a centre of resistance.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· May 31

Dental dams are a practical harm reduction tool that can make oral sex safer. . ✨️ Works well with lube ✨️ Can be cut from a condom in a pinch ✨️ One more tool in your safer sex tool kit. . Do you have any tips for easier dam use? Let us know in the comments.

LET’S LICK RESPONSIBLY: DENTAL DAMS
Awkward? Sometimes. Underused? Definitely. But if you do oral on vulvas or engage in anal play, dental dams are just one more option to add to your safer sex toolkit.

Let’s talk about dental dams.
A dental dam is a thin latex or polyurethane sheet used as a barrier during oral sex on a vulva or anus (rimming).
Think of it like a condom for mouths.
Dental dams create a barrier that
reduces fluid exchange and can provide extra protection during some oral services.
Not everyone uses dental dams, and that’s okay. Safer sex is about having different options available so you can choose what works best for you. Dental dams can help lower the risk of some sexually transmissible infections (STI) while giving you another protection option for oral services.

How to actually use a dental dam without fumbling.
CHECK THE PACKAGING
Make sure the wrapper isn’t damaged and check the expiry date before use. A torn or old dam is more likely to break during play.
PLACE IT FLAT
Lay the dam over the vulva or anus so it fully covers the area before any licking or rimming starts. Smooth it out gently so it stays in place.
If you’ve never used a dam before, practice unfolding one, adding lube, and holding it in place before you try to do it in a booking. Keep it sexy and clients will follow your lead.

WATER BASED LUBE
A little lube between the skin and the dam can increase sensation and reduce friction. You can warm the lube up first so it’s more comfortable.
HOLD IT IN PLACE
Use your hands or gentle body pressure to help keep the dam in place. The more relaxed and confident you feel using it, the more natural it tends to become.
DON’T FLIP IT
If the dam falls or slips, get a new one. Don’t flip it over and use the other side. It’s also important to get a fresh dam when switching between body parts or different people.
THROW IT OUT AFTER
Dams are single use only. Once you’re done, put it in the bin, and wash your hands.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· May 29

Your face isn't the only thing that can identify you. Backgrounds, tattoos, reflections, even that one hotel painting that is always in the background of your pics. 📷️ Swipe for practical ways to stay anonymous without sacrificing your aesthetic. Do you have any tips? Let us know in the comments.

KNOW ME IRL? NO
YOU DON’T.
Photography is an important part of sex worker advertising strategies. But how do we maintain our privacy?

Professional photographer vs. selfies?
Taking and editing your own photos, and keeping them separate from your personal images, is often the safest option for protecting your privacy. But if you want more professional content, asking trusted sex worker peers for photographer recommendations can be a great place to start. Some photographers are sex workers themselves.

Before working with a photographer, it’s important to have clear conversations and agreements in place. Things you may want to include in a contract to help protect your privacy include:
How will your images be stored, shared, or backed up?
Who owns the copyright or licensing rights to the images?
Can the photographer post your images on their own website or social media?
Will the photographer delete your images after delivery if requested?

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· May 27

As the end of the financial year draws to a close, now is the perfect time to support our work if you can. If not, sharing this post helps reach those who do have the means for financial support. Visit buff.ly/mSaaWkx

SUPPORT US TO FIGHT FOR SEX WORKER RIGHTS
Your donations enable us to be responsive and support work that does not receive government funding.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· May 24

Menstrual sponges are one of those products that more workers should know about. They can help some people feel more comfortable and confident while working on their period. Do you have a Sex Ed Sunday topic you would like us to cover? Tell us in the comments.

Sex ed sunday
Bleeding booked and busy
How to use a menstrual sponge
Working on your period?
Here's your guide to using menstrual sponges safely and confidently.

Whether you’ve heard horror stories about stuck sponges, have no idea what a menstrual sponge actually is, or are looking for ways to work more comfortably on your period, this guide breaks down how to use sponges safely, confidently, and with less stress.

Many sex workers
work on their period
by using a sponge to soak up menstrual fluid.
Menstrual sponges can be purchased online or at your local sex worker peer organisation. They come individually wrapped and are sterile for single use only.
Sponges can be left in for up to eight hours. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and some come pre-lubricated.

We do not recommend using sea sponges, as they are not sterile, may contain debris and can scratch the inside of your vagina or tear the condom.
“If I know a client is
bringing a lot of energy...or size, I’ll sometimes use a sponge for extra cushioning even if I’m not on
my period.”

How do I use a sponge?
A simple step-by-step guide to using a menstrual sponge safely, comfortably, and with confidence at work. Remember, if you feel pain or discomfort remove the sponge straight away.
Wash your hands with soap and water and take the sponge out of the packet.
Wet the sponge with water or lube, and wring out any excess liquid.
Squeeze the sponge into a narrow shape and push it up inside your vagina.
You can squat or lift one leg while standing to make it easier.
Do not leave sponge in for more than eight hours, or reuse the same sponge.

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· May 22

Boundaries don't stop once the booking starts. . You are allowed to: ✨️ redirect ✨️ pause ✨️ say no ✨️ change your mind ✨️ end the booking if needed . A client pushing limits during a booking isn't "bad communication", it's a boundary test. . For more sex worker skill shares visit redbookonline.org.au

FAQ Friday
The Other Worker Let Me Do it
PART 02 OF 02
BOUNDARIES DURING THE BOOKING
Just because someone has paid for a booking does not mean they are entitled to push your boundaries.

Negotiation doesn’t stop when the booking starts.
Last week on FAQ Friday, we discussed negotiation tips and asserting boundaries before a booking begins. This week, we’re talking about maintaining and asserting boundaries during the booking or service.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to negotiation, and not everyone will have the same level of negotiating power at work. This post may not reflect your exact circumstances, but it can offer ideas to support confidence, communication, and assertiveness at work.
You are never obligated to be polite to someone who is disrespecting your boundaries. You are entitled to end the booking at any time.

“Can’t you make an exception?”: when clients push for more
Sometimes a client may try to challenge, negotiate, or ignore your boundaries. Sex workers often refer to these people as “boundary pushers”.
Some clients may cross boundaries
accidentally because they are inexperienced,
nervous, or lack social skills. Others may do it intentionally to see what they can get away
with, gain a sense of power, or pressure you into providing something you have already said no to.

Boundaries can be physical, such as the services you do or do not offer, or the safer sex PPE (personal protective equipment) you choose to use. But
they can also be emotional, like not sharing
personal information or discussing parts
of your private life.

Boundaries work best when stated early, communicated clearly, and repeated calmly if
needed. You do not need to justify, soften, or
defend your boundaries to make them acceptable.

Maintaining boundaries often starts with the health check.
For many in-person workers, maintaining boundaries starts with making sure a visual health check happens in the first place.
Checking clients for visible sexually transmitted infections (STI) symptoms can happen at the start of a booking or more discreetly throughout (see our FAQ Friday post from 30 January for more).

Most clients understand that health checks are a normal part of the booking process, but some may feel awkward, not understand
their importance, or
try to avoid them
altogether.
“I make it sexy and tell them if they show me theirs now, they’ll get to see mine later.”
“I think it is a huge
red flag or warning sign if a client attempts to negotiate or refuse a
health check.”
“My go-to is saying it’s nothing personal and every client I see needs to have a health check.”

Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association@scarletalliance· May 19

It's almost that time again! The Scarlet Alliance 2026 National Forum will be held on Kaurna Country from 17-19 November. Applications are now open for sex workers who would like to facilitate a session at National Forum. You can find the online application form at linktr.ee/scarlet_alliance.