2 min article

Restricted adult items policy

Adult and sexual wellness items must be listed in the correct category and must follow our guidelines.

This policy was updated on 28 February 2024 to include a guideline on AI-generated or digitally altered images of public figures, and is effective as of this date.

Most adult items are subject to some form of restriction or prohibition. We'll review the content of the listing description, images and categories, to determine if an item is allowed.

What is the policy?

Sexually-oriented adult material is not allowed. This includes the following:

  • Films and video games classified as RC (refused classification), X or created for an adult audience
  • Adult magazines, books, comics, nudist publications or adult anime/manga that include sexually-explicit content, nudity or sexual stories
    • The following magazines and books can be listed as long as the listing and product don't contain nude images or explicit content: Playboy, Playgirl, Mayfair and Penthouse
  • Listings containing nudity (other than nude art)
    • eBay defines nudity as male/female genitalia, anus or female breasts where the areola or nipple is visible
  • AI-generated or digitally altered nude or sexually suggestive images of public figures
  • Images included when leaving Feedback may not contain nudity, even if the actual item or original listing included nudity

Sex toys and sex accessories may be listed in the Health & Beauty > Health Care > Sexual Wellness categories following these guidelines:

  • The Sex Toys and Fantasy, Fetish & Accessories categories are restricted to pre-approved sellers*
  • Items must be new and in the original packaging
  • Listings must not offer international postage
  • Listings must not include images of nudity or sexual content

*To apply for approval to list in restricted sexual wellness categories, please contact us - opens in new window or tab. Be ready to provide your eBay username, Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN), registered business name and website. Approval to list in these categories will be at eBay's discretion. Learn more about products with eligibility requirements.

Nude art listings must include the item specifics attribute Subject: Nudes, and can only be listed in these categories:

  • Art categories
  • Collectables > Photographic Images > Photographs
  • Collectables > Postcards > Non-Topographical Postcards

Activity on eBay is required to follow this policy, the eBay User Agreement and all applicable laws, as well as respect the rights of third parties. If it doesn't, eBay may take action consistent with applicable laws and the eBay User Agreement, and may even be legally required to do so. Such actions may include, as an example only: Removing the listing or other content, issuing a warning, restricting activity or account suspension.

Tip
Visit Seller Help to find details of any policy issues with your account or listings, and get the information you need to quickly resolve them.

Why does eBay have this policy?

We want to make adult items available to those who wish to purchase them and can do so legally, while preventing those who do not wish to view or purchase these items from easily accessing them.

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