Our History

For over 15 years, Vixen operated as an unfunded sex workers’ rights collective, run entirely by volunteer sex worker activists who dedicated their time and energy to supporting and advocating for our community.

During this time, Vixen led the Victorian campaign for the decriminalisation of sex work, which was achieved in 2022.

As decriminalisation began to roll out, the Victorian Department of Health approached Vixen and Scarlet Alliance to apply for funding to establish Vixen as an organisation. Scarlet Alliance now auspices Vixen, supporting our transition into an autonomous sex worker organisation.

With this funding, Vixen delivers a range of services and programs shaped by the needs and voices of our community.

We acknowledge the long-standing efforts of sex workers in Victoria and beyond, who have educated one another on workplace health, safety, and rights, proving that peer education is the most effective approach. Continuing this tradition, we provide sex worker-only spaces at our office and most events.

While significant progress has been made, we remain committed to achieving full decriminalisation, as street-based and migrant sex workers continue to face considerable policing.