Australia: LGBTQ community to celebrate Mardi Gras in Sydney March 5; protest planned for Oxford Street

Event

Members and supporters of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) community plan to hold the annual Mardi Gras celebration at Sydney Cricket Ground from 1800 March 5. Thousands of people will attend the ticketed event, in addition to more than 6,500 participants in the parade at the site. New South Wales Police will likely increase security for the duration of the event. Authorities will close some roads, leading to localized traffic disruptions. Increased demand for public transport is also likely as participants travel to and depart the event site.

Pride in Protest and other LGBTQ activist groups have gathered at Taylor Square and will rally along Oxford Street. Several hundred to a few thousand people could join the action. Officials will almost certainly monitor the demonstration. Minor skirmishes cannot be ruled out, especially if activists attempt to block roads or other disruptive actions on Oxford Street. Localized transport disruptions are likely on Oxford Street and surrounding areas in central Sydney.

Advice

Avoid the planned demonstration in central Sydney March 5 as a precaution. Exercise caution around Sydney Cricket Ground the afternoon and evening of March 5. Allow additional travel time near event sites.