The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is one of Australia’s most iconic cultural events, bringing hundreds of thousands of people together each year to celebrate pride, diversity and community. In 2028, it will mark 50 years since it began as a protest and grew into a cornerstone of Sydney’s identity, and a major contributor to New South Wales’ cultural and economic life.

Yet despite its scale and significance, the Monday following the parade remains a normal workday for most people. This creates challenges for attendees, volunteers, performers, hospitality workers, and the many visitors who travel to Sydney for the event.

We are calling on the NSW Government to introduce a public holiday on the Monday after Mardi Gras. This change would bring meaningful benefits to our community and our state:

1. Recognition of a major cultural event. Mardi Gras is internationally renowned and deeply woven into the social fabric of NSW. A public holiday would acknowledge its importance in the same way other states recognise major cultural or sporting events.

2. Community wellbeing and safety. The parade and associated events run late into the night, involving thousands of volunteers and participants. A public holiday would allow people to rest and recover safely, reducing fatigue-related risks and supporting mental and physical wellbeing.

3. Economic benefits for NSW. A long weekend would encourage visitors to extend their stay, boosting tourism, hospitality, accommodation, and retail sectors. Major events already generate significant economic activity - a public holiday would amplify this impact.

4. A powerful message of inclusion. Introducing a Mardi Gras public holiday would demonstrate NSW’s commitment to equality, visibility, and pride. It would be a meaningful symbol of support for LGBTQIA+ communities across the state.

We urge the NSW Government and our local representatives, including the Member for Sydney, Alex Greenwich, to consider this proposal and begin the process of establishing a public holiday that reflects the cultural heart of our state.

If you believe Mardi Gras deserves the recognition and support it has earned, please sign and share this petition!