ABSTRACT
This chapter seeks to expose the broad landscape of BDSM spaces in Australia. It does so by contextualising the scene via, firstly, an overview of the different definitions of BDSM and then highlighting the material culture of this sexual practice. The chapter highlights the typology and geography of BDSM spaces within metropolitan Australia, and examines how these spaces are regulated via the planning system within Sydney. Compliant commercial BDSM spaces are differentiated from BDSM event spaces by the degree of play and planning regulation that surrounds them. Simultaneously, there are some commercial BDSM events and spaces within Australia that operate clandestinely in order to evade formal bureaucratic planning, and health and occupation regulations. This chapter has sought to address this gap in the literature by painting a broad picture of the increased visibility and mainstreaming of BDSM practices. Consequently, BDSM lite products are available across a spectrum of retail environments not just the adult sex shop.
