GAY MEN AUSTRALIA (2)

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GAY MEN AUSTRALIA (2)

Sydney and Melbourne both offer a diverse collection of bars, discos, restaurants and saunas as well as sex shops and other "sex on premises" venues and cruising spots and beats for gay men. The major organised gay events tend to be concentrated there as well, such as Mardi Gras and the major dance parties and events like the Sleaze Ball, Pride, and Mid-Summa. But the smaller capitals cities and even some country centres have well-established and thriving gay scenes as well.

Social and support networks of gay men also provide an alternative for those wanting to get away from the pressure, noise, drinking or emphasis on sex/youth/beauty in the bar and club scene.

Commercial sex services are also available in most areas, with escort services, brothels and massage services listed in the local phone books, the gay press and tourist publications in most large cities and tourist areas.

It is not unknown for gays to be attacked or verbally abused by homophobic types in areas known to be frequented by gays - either parks or beats, or sometimes in areas with many gay venues, particularly late at night/early in the morning. Be cautious if walking alone in areas you do not know, but if you have any problems report them to the police.

THE LAW

Gay sex has been decriminalised in all states and territories in Australia. The legal age of consent for male/male sex is 16 in ACT, QLD and VIC, 17 in SA and TAS, 18 in NSW and NT and 21 in WA. For female/female sex their is either no law or the legal age is 16. The legal age for possession or viewing of X-Rated material in all states is 18.

Prostitution has been legalised in most states and territories but in most areas soliciting for sex in public places is still illegal. Licensed brothels are not allowed to operate in some areas, e.g. near schools and hospitals, etc.

Sexual assault, rape, or (consensual or forced) sex with anyone under the legal age carries

heavy penalties including jail terms (and deportation for visitors) and while the gender of the participants is not necessarily a factor in the law (though it may be in its enforcement), the age difference between the participants will usually result in harsher penalties the greater it is.

HIV and AIDS in AUSTRALIA

The rate of new infections with HIV in Australia has been falling in recent years, thanks largely to the enormous amount of time and money that has been spent on promoting AIDS awareness and safe sex practices by government health departments and AIDS charities and groups. AIDS however is still a problem in Australia and standard precautions are required. Condoms and water based lubricants are available at "sex on premises" venues and at pharmacies (drugstores) nationwide.

Find out yourself and book a fantastic holiday on: http://www.gaytraveller.com.au

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