A group of Redfern mosque members has voiced strong concern over a plan to expand a Surry Hills brothel just 45 metres from their place of worship, citing fears about its impact on families and the broader community.
The issue surfaced following a proposal by The Ginza Club (DA 2024/1069), a sex services premises located on Cleveland Street, to increase its number of service rooms from nine to 19 by converting two neighbouring heritage-listed terraces.
The Redfern Islamic Society, which operates the Redfern Mosque nearby, believes the development risks undermining community values, particularly during late-night prayer times in the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
Concerns From the Local Faith Community
Leaders from the Redfern Mosque say the brothel’s location already causes discomfort among families and worshippers, who frequently walk past the venue. They believe increasing its size would only make matters worse. They are particularly worried about the visibility of clients coming and going, sometimes lingering in parked cars outside the premises.
There is concern that the brothel’s presence may influence young people passing through the area or create an atmosphere that doesn’t align with the mosque’s purpose and values. Members of the mosque say the overlap between late prayer services and the brothel’s business hours, especially during Ramadan when services can finish around 10:00 p.m., puts their community in an uncomfortable position.
While some acknowledge there may be a need for such services, they question the appropriateness of its location in close proximity to places frequented by children and families.
Brothel Operators Say Policies Are in Place
In response to community concerns, the business behind The Ginza Club submitted a detailed Plan of Management outlining health and safety protocols, access restrictions, and procedures designed to minimise any impact on the surrounding neighbourhood. The document, prepared in consultation with urban planning consultants, details how the premises would operate discreetly, with no visible signage, controlled access via security cameras, and professional conduct expected from both staff and clients.
According to the Plan of Management, all service rooms are monitored for safety, and staff are trained to manage behaviour, support safe practices, and maintain cleanliness. The business also emphasises that the extended premises will operate within its current hours — from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 2:00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
The business further argued that its operations align with existing council policies, particularly since sex work has been decriminalised in New South Wales. They stressed that the building’s exterior would remain discreet and that all personnel are trained to prevent antisocial behaviour and ensure safety for all visitors.
Council’s Decision and Community Response
Despite receiving multiple submissions from residents opposed to the development — raising issues around parking, noise, and proximity to Inner Sydney High School — the City of Sydney’s Local Planning Panel approved the expansion. The council found the application complied with zoning laws and noted that the neighbourhood already hosts a mix of commercial uses.
Some local residents fear the expansion could change the character of the area, drawing comparisons to the former red-light district of Kings Cross. Community members, including those from the mosque, have expressed disappointment in the council’s decision and are considering options to appeal or challenge the outcome.
A meeting with nearby homeowners has since been planned to explore further steps that can be taken.
Published 1-April-2025
