Qtopia Gets the Keys

The keys to the old Darlinghurst Police Station were officially handed over to Qtopia Sydney, this week. Qtopia will be Sydney’s first Queer History and Culture Centre and is currently in residence at the old bandstand in Green Park with a series of live shows and activations programmed till mid October.

The Police Station site, just off Taylor Square and next to the National Art School (formerly Darlinghurst Goal) has an important place in Sydney’s queer history and was associated with the harassment and persecution of Sydney’s LGBTQI community, including 78ers who attended the very first Mardi Gras rally.

In a statement, CEO of Qtopia Sydney, Greg Fisher said, “The transfer of this property holds great significance. The Queer community will take confidence that the hard-fought wins from illegality to legality, from inequality to equality, from humiliation to respect, have been heard by political leaders across the spectrum. Our stories will soon be invested in this property – told and re-told – to ensure that education and awareness are the foundation of a new future of tolerance, acceptance, respect and love.” 

In post to social media, Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore celebrated the news, writing, “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 LGBTIQA+ community.

“While this building contributed to injustices suffered by many LGBTIQA+ people, transforming it into a significant community resource will support the healing of past injustices, address past wrongs, and celebrate the community’s resilience.”

Qtopia Sydney is set to move into its permanent location at the Darlinghurst Police Station in February 2024, just in time for Mardi Gras. In the meantime, check out their current program here.

Welcome to the Neighbourhood Qtopia!