The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade Route has been added to the National Heritage List, recognising its rich history and outstanding value to Australia.
Running through the heart of Sydney, the two kilometre route captures both the history of the original 1978 parade and its role as an enduring cultural event in Australia. The listed site recognises the place where protests in 1978 highlighted the inequality experienced by LGBT people in Australia.
Since the resilience and bravery of the 78ers, the Parade Route has been centre stage for significant moments including the marriage equality movement and the fights for legislative reform.
It remains a place for cultural celebrations and political demonstrations, advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and influencing social change within Australia, and continues to be a beacon of tolerance, inclusion and social activism.
The Australian Government has decided to list the Route on Australia’s National Heritage List, after it was nominated for inclusion by the Heritage Council of NSW in 2024.
Australia’s National Heritage List recognises our most significant heritage places for their outstanding value to the nation. It includes over 120 natural, historic and First Nations places and encourages celebration of national heritage.
The listing means the values of the Parade Route will now be protected for future generations under national environment law, and enables access to the Australian Heritage Grants program.
Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said: “Inclusion in the National Heritage List is the highest heritage honour in Australia, and it’s great to see the Route recognised.
“Since 1978, the Parade has offered an opportunity for all Australians to come together and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and reflect on the past.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the Australian Heritage Council to identify, protect and conserve our country’s most important heritage sites.”
NSW Minister for Environment and Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe said: “To appreciate what the 78ers did, you have to understand that the LGBTQI+ community was being treated as second class citizens. There was violence, prejudice and discrimination built into our laws.
“When the 78ers marched, they put their lives on the line and refused to accept inequality.
“Today Mardi Gras is a time to celebrate the progress we have made while committing to the ongoing fight for equality, but we must never forget the shoulders we stand on.”
Member for Sydney Tanya Plibersek said: “This listing acknowledges the pain, violence and discrimination the 78ers fought against, and the celebration of love and diversity at the heart of Mardi Gras every year.
“I’m proud to have backed this nomination alongside the 78ers. It’s fantastic to see the Mardi Gras route finally receive the national recognition it deserves.”
Hundreds of thousands of Sydneysiders and domestic and international visitors who will flock to the vibrant streets of Darlinghurst on 28 February for the 2026 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade.
Proudly supported by Destination NSW, the Parade will feature more than 200 floats and 12,000 participants.
