Thousands of people filled the streets of Sydney for the annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, celebrating inclusion, diversity and queer culture while honouring 48 years since the first march in 1978. Confetti, glitter and rainbow flags coloured the route, alongside signs supporting Palestine and banners recalling the movement’s protest roots. Streets central to the parade were recently added to the National Heritage List in recognition of their significance to queer history.

The original marchers known as the 78ers were warmly cheered as they carried a banner reading 'Stop Police Attacks on Gays, Women and Blacks'. Veteran participant Karl Zlotkowski said their numbers are shrinking with age but they hope to return for the 50th anniversary in 2028. Spectators praised their courage in paving the way for what has become a major cultural institution.

More than 170 floats took part, representing rainbow families, transgender people, people with disability, unions, government departments and community choirs. Political leaders and local officials joined the 1.3 kilometre march, while families with young children and the motorcycle group Dykes on Bikes drew loud cheers from the crowd.

The night included controversy after organisers barred an activist group over social media posts deemed to breach the parade’s code of conduct. Despite this, police reported no significant arrests and praised the generally respectful behaviour of attendees, with only four people detained for breach of the peace.