Campaign for exemption amid barbershop’s push for ‘last male sanctuary’ – what about legislation?

An Adelaide barber shop has applied for an exemption to South Australia’s Equal Opportunity Act in a push to remain a self-proclaimed ‘male sanctuary’ for customers, and formally ban women.

The move follows complaints around claims of its ‘male-only’ barber ethos.

In an open letter – Robbie’s Chop Shop has called on support of clients stating “we feel the complaint is misconceived,” also expressing that an exemption would prevent diverting further resource away from barbering, while offering a safe space for men to come together.

The social media post has garnered almost 800 comments, but has been met with mixed responses.

In today’s current climate of inclusion – what does South Australian legislation say about such a topic?

Image: Image courtesy of Emma Wotzke

Produced By: Emma Wotzke

Featured In Story: Anne Hewett – Associate Professor, University of Adelaide Law School , and

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 10th August 2023