A barber shop has pledged to remain a “last male sanctuary” and will apply to block women from its premises with an exemption application to the Equal Opportunity Act.
The move comes following a complaint to Equal Opportunity SA about the barber’s request that women observe its status as a space for men.
“Whilst we feel that this complaint is misconceived, we are doing our best to resolve the situation in a respectful and understanding manner to the satisfaction of all involved,” Robbie’s Chop Shop writes on its Instagram page.
“This is not the first complaint of this type we have received, so in order to deal with them once and for all, we have decided to make an application for an exemption to Equal Opportunity Act.”
The South Australian barber, located on Adelaide’s King William Rd, said it wanted to maintain a “safe space” for men to come together and discuss issues.
The post, which has 368 likes, asks for supporters to write testimonials backing the barber’s mission.
Instagram users have expressed mixed views to the news, with some expressing support and others disapproval.
“Men will literally ask for exemptions to the Equal Opportunity Act instead of just going to therapy,” writes ashleigh_hellfire.
“Why is it that female only hairdressers, salons, gyms etc can exist but one singular male only barbershop can be an issue?!” writes nalsaxx.
“This place is more than a barbershop – I’ve seen first hand through my own brother and husband. Guys come here not just for cuts, but for the banter and environment.”
Antyreligious asks the barber to clarify its position on transgender customers.
“How do you feel about Trans men and non-binary people,” the user writes.
“How do you classify the man in male only?”
Robbie’s Chop Shop has been contacted for comment.