Canberra Gay and Lesbian Scene

(Canberra, Australian Capital Territory - ACT, Australia)



Gay CanberraAustralia has become a very gay friendly country and as its capital city, Canberra is leading the way in equal rights and anti-discriminatory laws. For the local LGBT community, the highlight of the year is without question the SpringOut pride extravaganza held annually in the middle of November, while for the latest goings on, tune into QRadio, the city's very own LGBT radio station.

There are a handful of gay bars and nightspots in and around Canberra, although patrons are welcomed at most venues, regardless of their sexuality. However, a number of the clubs around the Sydney Building can be a little rough at times, and so it is recommended that these are avoided where possible.

One nightclub not to avoid is the centrally located Cube on the pedestrianised Petrie Plaza, which is just down the road from the Canberra Centre and opened in the year 2002 as a dedicated LGBT club. Weekly karaoke, drag acts and fundraising nights are accompanied by themed events, where the best dressed often enjoy free admission. The doors generally open at 21:00 and patrons dance the night away, past midnight, staying as late as 05:00 the next morning.


Useful LGBT gay and lesbian venues in the Canberra area include the following selection:


LGBT Festivals

There are festivals throughout the year for gay and lesbian visitors and the Canberra Pride Group organises many of these events. Look out for the Australian National University (ANU) Pride Week in late September, and the Capital Queer Film Festival in November.

SpringOut
The highlight of the gay scene in Canberra is without question the SpringOut Pride Festival each November, which lasts in the region of three weeks and includes an almost endless stream of parties, a rally parade and live music. Events begin on the lawns of the Westlund House and usually culminate with the Bushdance Party.