LGBTIQA+ Heritage Study

The City of Yarra has long been home to numerous LGBTIQA+ businesses, spaces and events which have contributed to strong connections and associations within the LGBTIQA+ communities—connections which are living and evolving.  

In 2023 Yarra City Council engaged GML and subconsultants Way Back When historians to undertake a heritage study of places and objects of significance to LGBTIQA+ communities in the City of Yarra.  

GML undertook a rigorous analysis, including targeted historical research and community consultation, to identify a comprehensive list of potential places of significance.  

GML’s report outlined recommendations and opportunities to best protect the places and objects identified in the comprehensive list through both statutory and non-statutory mechanisms to celebrate and promote the tangible and intangible LGBTIQA+ heritage values within Yarra.  

In Part 2 of the heritage study, GML undertook a detailed review and assessment of the places recommended in Part 1, including the preparation of heritage citations.

This comprised the review and assessment of five existing Heritage Overlay precincts and 13 new and existing individual places that were identified in Part 1 to have potential heritage significance to the LGBTIQA+ community. GML also provided recommendations to Yarra City Council on the appropriate statutory planning mechanisms to protect these places’ LGBTIQA+ heritage significance.