Bondi Junction Brothels
Reverend the Hon. Dr GORDON MOYES: I ask the Minister for Justice, representing the Minister for Community Services, a question without notice. Is the Minister aware of the reports yesterday that the brothels in Bondi Junction, employing at least 95 prostitutes and currently operating in residential areas, are taking action in the New South Wales Land and Environment Court today to keep operating in the housing block? Is the Minister aware that there are reports of residents frightened to come home at night, of stairwells smelling like urinals, of scantily clad prostitutes running between floors, of residents unable to sleep because of the noise, of landlords unable to get other decent tenants, and of “heavies” hanging around the building? Will the Minister indicate what moves are being made to protect children from this type of adverse environment? If the appeal in the Land and Environment Court today is successful, will the Minister explain what strategies will be put in place to protect children in such environments?
The Hon. JOHN HATZISTERGOS: I am not aware of the details contained in the honourable member’s question, but I will be happy to refer the question to the Minister for Community Services and obtain an answer in due course.
