To show support for International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT), held annually on 17 May, councils across the country are hoisting rainbow flags above their buildings.
The move is a first for many councils.
In regional Victoria, Mitchell Shire Mayor Sue Marstaeller said the act is a simple but important gesture.
“Our Council voted to raise the rainbow flag because we want to support and encourage inclusion for everyone in the community.
“The ensuing outpouring of support from the community has been overwhelming and clearly demonstrates that this simple initiative is well received by thousands of other residents who value inclusion and compassion for the GLBTI community.”
In Ballarat, a flag raising ceremony was accompanied by one minute of noise – part of a global campaign encouraging people to speak out about violence.
Throughout the day, the Ballarat Library held a community lunch, film screening and afternoon activities. Local basketball teams, the Miners and Rush, will wear rainbow socks in support of LGBTIQ people at their home game in the evening.
In Queensland, Ipswich City Council, Scenic Rim Regional Council and Noosa Regional Council are some of the councils taking part in the international awareness day.
But, not all councils chose to participate.
Sunshine Coast Council decided not to fly a flag – stating it was against their flag policy – which drew criticism from local LGBTQI groups.
This morning, a small group of protestors gathered outside the Council’s chambers to display their own rainbow flag.
The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia is marked internationally on May 17 because on that date in 1990 the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases.
