Lord Mayor Clover Moore says both initiatives were unanimously supported by the City Council.

“As one of the most LGBTQIA+ inclusive communities not just in Australia but around the world, Oxford Street is the perfect home for a museum that celebrates the history and culture of the LGBTQIA+ community,” the Mayor says.

“Qtopia Sydney’s proposed museum aims to provide a safe and inclusive space for the public to celebrate, remember and learn more about the rich history of Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ community.

“And with Sydney hosting the LGBTQIA+ community’s flagship global festival WorldPride early next year, now is the time to bring this museum to life. It would educate visitors and locals on Sydney’s role in the LGBT rights movement and HIV/AIDS response, and become a contemporary beacon for pride and diversity.”

Meanwhile, Qtopia CEO Greg Fisher says the timing for this Sydney project is perfect.

“We are ready to stand as a proud, new, celebratory, amazing museum, ready to welcome the world for WorldPride 2023, and the community before and after,” Greg says.

“We’re ready to succeed and to be a meaningful part of Council’s important Oxford Street precinct rejuvenation initiative.”

The City has also allocated in-kind support worth $650,000 to Sydney WorldPride, addding to their $500,000 sponsorship of the event.

Sydney WorldPride 2023 will incorporate much-beloved Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras festival events plus an additional 200+ arts and sport events, theatre, concerts, parties, First Nations programming and a human rights conference.

Sydney WorldPride 2023 takes place from 17 February-5 March.