South Australian government imposes new adult-entertainment exclusion zones in Adelaide CBD

State officials have approved a set of planning amendments that create exclusion zones for fresh adult-entertainment operations across Adelaide's central business district and the entirety of North Adelaide, with the notable exception of Hindley Street. The prohibited zones encompass major thoroughfares and shopping strips, including King William Street, Rundle Mall, Rundle Street and the North, South, East and West Terraces, as well as large residential sections in the CBD's southern side.

The restrictions target venues that provide nude or lap dances and retailers of sexually explicit products, but they spare existing establishments in those areas and do not apply to lingerie retailers or massage parlours, which are governed by a different code. Planning Minister Nick Champion explained the changes are intended to safeguard the distinctive character of streets and squares, particularly in the East End, which has become a thriving dining and cultural hub.

Adelaide City Council will now have to scrutinise applications for sex shops more closely, assessing advertising and storefront presentation. Business owner Frank Hannon-Tan welcomed the rules, saying they will help maintain the precinct’s appeal as the city grows.