The Imperial Hotel has been a hub for Sydney’s gay community from the era before homosexuality was decriminalised. Photo: NSW Government.
Erskineville’s Imperial Hotel has been listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, recognising an iconic landmark of LGBTQIA+ culture in the state’s capital.
The hotel started its history as a working-class watering hole before being bought in 1983 by Dawn O’Donnell, a famous member of the city’s LGBTQIA+ community, who turned The Imperial into an LGBTQIA+ friendly venue. O’Donnell was widely known for operating gay and lesbian venues at a time when homosexuality was still an offence under law.
The Imperial became a welcome home for Sydney’s burgeoning LGBTQIA+ community and today it stands as an enduring symbol of acceptance in the city. It has operated for more than 40 years, making it the longest-standing venue of its kind outside of Oxford Street.
“The Imperial Hotel is home to stories of love, pride, protest and resistance,” Member for Sydney Tanya Plibersek said.
”It holds the memories of generations in our community who have gathered there and continues to be a safe space for many – particularly the LGBTQIA+ community.
“I’m so pleased it will be recognised on the NSW Heritage Register, celebrating its history and significance and making sure it is preserved for generations to come.”
The Imperial was particularly known for its live drag shows after it was featured in the hit Australian film The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Drag shows in tribute to the film are still performed every Saturday night.
The listing of the Imperial on the register formally recognises the cultural significance and protects the building and its history for years to come. It also supports the continued use of the building as a venue for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The Minns Government recognises the diverse communities, people and places that make NSW a unique place through the state registry, formally enshrining the importance and status of venues for their history and contribution to the state.
“We look forward to working with the community to grow, nurture and develop its legacy long into the future,” chief operating officer of Universal Hotels [which owns The Imperial] Richie Haines said.
“We are keenly aware of the hotel’s history and significance to the LGBTQIA+ community and are pleased that this has been enshrined for many generations to come.”
