Sydney - Australia's Sex Party picked an appropriate venue for its launch Thursday: a Melbourne sex-toy emporium where vendors promised something for absolutely everyone.

"I think there are enough free-minded individuals for us to win seats," party leader Fiona Patten said. "There's a new conservatism creeping up in Australia. We're becoming a nanny state where politicians can't talk about sex without giggling or saying something negative."

The former fashion designer said the party would campaign against censorship and lobby for gays to marry and adopt children.

An immediate target is draft legislation that would force internet service providers to block access to pornographic websites.

Party member John Newton said that the laws would slow the internet and infringe on free speech and claimed that "the only countries with similar laws are Iran and North Korea."

Patten, who founded the Eros Foundation sex industry lobby group in 1992, said she was well qualified to lead the Sex Party.

"I certainly did get some experience working as a sex worker in the industry," she told national broadcaster ABC. "I mean, I've always been interested in sex, I think, all my life. And I thank my parents for that."

Patten said going into recession would give the sex industry a lift.

"Some retailers are saying that when people start worrying about their finances - and they are worrying about the economy - they go and buy a vibrator or an adult film," she said. "We're a cheap luxury that can make you feel good." (dpa)