LOS ANGELES — Rachel Payne, the General Manager of the Eros Association, the Australian adult industry association, has entered local politics with a run for the South Ward seat of Moreland City Council in Victoria.
Payne is running on behalf of the Reason Party, a rep explained, and has been "a vocal advocate for LGBT rights, sexual freedoms and cannabis law reform and is looking to provide a unique voice on issues facing the diverse Melbourne suburb."
She is also advocating for small businesses, particularly during the pandemic.
"We need to see high-street shops survive with local government supporting, not hindering, small businesses," Payne told XBIZ. "Through my work for adults-only businesses, I am used to dealing with the impact of draconian laws and red tape."
"We really need a change in Moreland," she added, "and that's only going to happen if people actively promote alternative candidates this election."
The rep noted that running "minor party campaigns in local elections has been particularly difficult this year due to tighter restrictions on movement. As such, Ms. Payne is keen to spread the word online about diverse candidates in the upcoming election through the hashtag #RachelForReason."
The local council elections are occurring via postal vote, with polls closing on October 23 and 6 p.m. local time.
Visit Rachel Payne's campaign website and Twitter handle for additional information.