A long-running family brothel in Wollongong is pushing to extend its operating hours until 3:30am, arguing the move will help curb late-night antisocial behaviour and meet growing local demand.
Family Business Responds to Customer Demand
Happy Fortune, a family-operated brothel on West Street that has been trading for nine years, has lodged a development application with Wollongong City Council. The business currently operates from 10am to 12:30am daily. Manager Tony Ku, who runs the venue for his aunt, the owner, says the busiest times are late at night and in the early morning.
"The ability for a small business to provide a service when people want it is everything," Mr Ku stated. He explained that customers are actively demanding longer opening hours, with patrons often trying to gain entry after nearby bars close at 2am.
Safety and Regulation at the Heart of the Bid
Mr Ku contends that extending hours to 3:30am would create a safer environment for both staff and the public. He reported instances of heavily intoxicated or drug-affected individuals attempting to enter outside operating hours, sometimes necessitating police intervention.
"If we can grow this business more, if we can defeat those not legally opened, we can provide more safer regulated places and safe for the community," he said. The proposal aims to offer a lawful, well-regulated alternative to illegal sex work, referencing a recent investigation that revealed up to 100 illegal sex workers operating in the Wollongong area.
Mr Ku emphasised that longer hours provide a secure workplace for female employees, contrasting it with potentially riskier at-home services. "For the weekend fun, a lot of people go to the bars and the club for fun and then want to go somewhere else to have fun as well," he added. "We want to extend time so we can provide as well, so the people in Wollongong have a place to relax."
Council Considers the Environmental Impact
The development application's statement of environmental effects suggests the extended hours are unlikely to negatively affect neighbours. The report notes the site is "well-separated from residential properties" in an area of Wollongong and that the change would meet existing demand without altering the nature or intensity of the business.
Currently employing three staff, Happy Fortune hopes extended trading could lead to more job opportunities. While Mr Ku expressed a desire for 24/7 operation, he acknowledged it was unlikely and said "we will try 3am at least."
The development application was on public exhibition until December 5, 2025, and a decision from Wollongong City Council is pending. The outcome will determine if this local business can adapt its hours to the rhythms of the city's night-time economy.
