Thursday, 4 June 2026

 Rachel PAYNE (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (10:39): Sometimes those most stigmatised and in need of support are overlooked. When responding to the needs of St Kilda’s drug-using community in the early 1990s, St Kilda Gatehouse noticed one group being ignored: street-based sex workers. Since then they have become a pillar of support for the community, always leading with a person-centred approach. Last month I had the pleasure of meeting Nickie, the CEO of Gatehouse, at their drop-in centre. I toured the facility and learned about their history and the incredible work that they continue to do. Their drop-in centre is a primary point of contact, offering free health and safety supplies like PPE, naloxone and toiletries alongside informal counselling and referrals to other support services.

Importantly, it provides a safe space for connection, somewhere to relax, enjoy a hot meal or try on some new clothes and make-up. I was impressed by their young women’s program, supporting young women and girls affected by or at risk of sexual exploitation. Informed by lived experience, the program recognises that early intervention can reduce further harm. While it began in Melbourne’s south-east, Gatehouse hopes to expand this program across the peninsula and Gippsland, where demand continues to grow. It was clear to me that Gatehouse provides more than just services. Their stories, photos and drawings adorned the drop-in centre’s walls, reflecting a sense of belonging. Gatehouse’s work reminds us that compassion and support must extend to all members of our community, especially those often overlooked.