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The future of a sex-on-premise proposal for a venue right in the centre of Perth’s CBD is set to be determined this month.
Despite local outrage against the proposal, the City of Perth is recommending the approval of a development application that would allow the Pink Rabbit Club to run an adults-only exclusive club for consensual sexual activities for the LGBTQI+ community.
The building, located at 129 Barrack Street, currently operates as an adult retail shop – known as Pink Rabbit Adult Boutique – on the ground floor, but the development application would see the upper floor become a space for “social connection, education and consensual sexual activity.”
The report to council ahead of the City’s agenda briefing session on July 21 notes the applicant, Rowe Group, describes the space as being designed to “foster a sex-positive, inclusive, and affirming environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and other identities within the community.”
“As an 18+ exclusive club, it emphasises social connection, education, and consensual intimate activities in a non-judgmental setting. Members are united by a shared interest in fostering LGBTQI+ community connections, including safe discussions, social interactions, and consensual activities (including those of sexual nature) that support personal expression and well-being,” the applicant said in the report.
In 2022, the council voted to grant conditional approval to change the building’s use from a small bar to an adult retail shop. This approval was for the ground and upper level of the building.
According to the report, “in early 2025, following the receipt of a complaint alleging the upper floor of the premises was being used for purposes which were contrary to the above approval, the city initiated preliminary enforcement action against the property owner and the business operator.”
“Following correspondence with the city, the operators ceased using the space for unauthorised activities,” the report said.
A City of Perth spokesperson confirmed that the business owners are the same people behind this current development application.
Public consultation on the proposal saw 341 submissions, with 290 of those objecting to the adults-only club.
Of the 290 oppositions, 279 of those people were not owners, occupiers or organisations in the City of Perth area. Responses came from as far south as Falcon and as north as Mullaloo.
Common themes for the reasons behind the objections included its location, public safety and concerns the business could operate as a brothel.
“I vehemently object to this proposal. The application is for a sex-on-premises venue in the Perth CBD. The city has been working to attract families, young people, residents and visitors back into the CBD. This proposal conflicts with that objective and risks undermining the character, reputation, and perceived safety of the city centre,” one submission from a Sorrento resident said.
A Hocking resident said they opposed the proposed development as it “does not align with the character, values, or long-term vision we are striving to uphold for our city.”
“This type of establishment carries impacts that reach beyond its walls—affecting the wellbeing, safety, and sense of peace for the families, residents, and businesses who call this area home,” they wrote.
“The location being considered is not appropriate for such a facility. Introducing it into this neighbourhood risks shifting the atmosphere of the area, placing unnecessary strain on local services, and undermining ongoing efforts to cultivate a safe, wholesome, and community-minded environment.”
A Mount Lawley resident said they believed the proposal would represent a “valuable addition” to the city’s social and cultural infrastructure.
“It will provide a dedicated, members-only venue where members of the LGBTQI+ community can gather in a secure, consensual, and supportive environment. Such spaces are important for promoting wellbeing, inclusion, and community connection in our diverse capital city,” they wrote.
The Pink Rabbit released a statement on its website on January 28 in regard to the development application.
“We recognise the profound cultural and historical significance of sex-on-premises (SOP) venues within the queer community. These spaces have long served as vital sanctuaries for connection, self-expression, and mutual support, particularly in contexts where mainstream environments may feel unsafe or unwelcoming,” the statement read.
“Pink Rabbit Club is committed to honouring this legacy by prioritising community well-being above all.
“Pink Rabbit Club aims to foster a vibrant, sex-positive sanctuary that empowers LGBTQI+ individuals to thrive, celebrate their identities, and prioritise both physical and emotional health in a controlled, private setting.”
The proposal details state that to become a member, individuals would have to be 18 years and older who identify within the LGBTQI+ spectrum and actively engage in or seek to explore LGBTQI+ sexual activity.
“All applicants must complete a membership form, agree to the code of conduct (emphasising consent, respect, and confidentiality), and undergo a verification process,” the proposal said.
No alcohol is allowed on site either.
To control behaviours, the proposal says affirmative consent is required for all interactions (verbal “yes” and ongoing check-ins).
“All interactions must be based on explicit, informed, and enthusiastic consent. Members must respect boundaries and immediately cease activity if consent is withdrawn,” it said.
The space’s proposed opening hours are Monday-Thursday 10am-9pm, Friday 10am-10pm, Saturday 10am-9pm, and Sunday noon-6pm.
The capacity for the club at any one time is capped to 50 members.
City of Perth officers have recommended that the development application be approved at their ordinary council meeting on July 28.
The conditions around the approval include external signage advertising the LGBTQI+ members space or related activities not being permitted on the subject site, and that patron access to Level 1 of the premises being limited to Barrack Street at all times.
The Pink Rabbit was approached for comment.
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