Sydney's rich LGBTIQ+ history is being recognised in its place names.
Sydney has a rich LGBTIQ+ history. It is now being recognised in some of the city's key place names. Oxford Street in Paddington is famous for gay rights marches and the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Nearby areas are also gaining iconic status for the LGBTIQ+ community.
In 2017, more than 30,000 people gathered in Prince Alfred Park in support of the Australian (Equality) Marriage Law Proposal. During the event, they heard the great news that more than 60 per cent of Australians voted in favour of marriage equality.
It was a historic occasion, long awaited by over 800,000 Australians who identify as LGBTIQ+.
The gathering inspired Alex Greenwich MP, co-chair of Australian Marriage Equality. He proposed to officially name the location 'Equality Green'. It is the central lawn of Prince Alfred Park.
In August 2020, the Geographical Names Board approved the name 'Equality Green' after a surge of public support.
“The name Equality Green is a fitting tribute to that joyous day when we gathered together in Prince Alfred Park to learn that love had won a landslide victory,” City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.
A 90m rainbow pathway now permanently borders Equality Green, commemorating the same-sex marriage milestone.
In nearby Newtown, a vibrant LGBTQI area, the Inner West LGBTQ Working Group lobbied to rename Bedford Square 'Pride Square.' They wanted to create a safe space for the local community.
Newtown has several well-established gay and lesbian pubs. It also has LGBTIQ+ friendly businesses and support groups. They create a safe space for community members seeking connection and support.
In 2022, the Inner West Council backed the group's bid. They applied to the Geographical Names Board to rename the square 'Pride Square'.
The Geographical Names Board approved the new name after a public consultation. In February 2023, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese opened Pride Square at the Pride Inner West Festival.
“Couldn’t miss the chance to officially open Pride Square in Newtown … and to unveil the pride flag beacon – a colourful celebration of diversity,” the Prime Minister said. “Every Australian deserves respect and equality – no matter where you live or who you love.”
The area is now home to the Sydney Pride Centre. It is a safe space for LGBTIQ+ communities to connect, create, and collaborate. The centre is in the old Newtown Town Hall, next to Pride Square.
