The 4 most inclusive LGBTQIA+ hotspots in Brisbane

Aside from some of the world’s most gorgeous beaches and the renowned Aussie outback just a stone’s throw away, there are plenty of other reasons that Brisbane is a top study destination for international students.

The river city boasts thriving cultural hubs that foster inclusivity and community across all walks of life, dotted with lively bars, cafés and stores that promise endless possibilities all throughout the year.

In this article, we highlight some of the most popular LGBTQIA+ friendly locations, shared with us by one of UQ’s own international students, Naomi.

West End

Perhaps the most well-known LGBTQIA+ friendly location in all of Brisbane, but for good reason, West End is home to many inclusive businesses and is plastered in art and decoration that screams allyship. The cosy suburb, nestled behind Brisbane’s famous South Bank, is home to a vibrant arts scene with almost daily live music events and community theatre centres that provide endless entertainment and performances from many LGBTQIA+ creatives. West End is the beating heart of Brisbane’s queer community and is truly a place that, for Naomi, holds “no judgement” where you can “be whoever you want to be”. The suburb is directly across the river from UQ and easily accessible by the CityCat ferry from the UQ Ferry Terminal, or by bus via the Brisbane CBD.

A restaurant and cafe in West End

We recommend exploring any of the bars, cafés, bookstores, and other small business along West End’s iconic Boundary Street. Musgrave Park is also a fantastic visit; famous for its ongoing significance for Brisbane’s Aboriginal community as a remnant of the Kurilpa Indigenous campground, the park plays host to an array of cultural events every year. Each of these events mark important moments of historical recognition of oppression and are an excellent opportunity to bring people together to celebrate cultural identity and pride.

A bookshop in West End

Musgrave Park

Thrift stores

The revival of vintage clothing has taken Brisbane by storm, following in the footsteps of Melbourne and Sydney, first with charity operated second-hand clothing stores and now with the advent of boutique and curated vintage shops throughout the whole city. In our interview, Naomi described the importance of self-expression through clothing and how thrifting was a popular pastime in their friendship groups. These beautiful stores, many of which are now operated by friendly local fashion enthusiasts, offer the perfect library of unique items through which to show your individuality and distinctive style. Once again, West End is home to a vast selection of vintage stores with many of these smaller boutique businesses that are well worth a look. There are also numerous vintage events held around the Brisbane CBD and Showgrounds throughout the year that offer a much larger range of second-hand treasures.

Rock climbing

The global rock climbing or ‘bouldering’ craze has taken Brisbane by storm and the climbing gyms scattered throughout the city are some of “the safest” locations for the LGBTQIA+ community, says Naomi. These gyms have become a haven for queer students who are more physically inclined and are looking for a challenging new hobby that promises mind (and body) bending problem solving and a killer workout all rolled into one. Anyone can get involved with facilities for absolute beginners to avid climbers.

Indoor rock climbing in Brisbane

Brisbane Pride Festival

Held annually around September or October, the Brisbane Pride Festival is highlighted by the Pride Rally and March and Fair Day that celebrate LGBTQIA+ identity, advocate for equality, and showcase queer creatives and small businesses. The march begins in the Brisbane CBD and proceeds through South Bank, before arriving in Musgrave Park in West End where the fair is held. Naomi described the parade as “a really good experience” where it was incredible to “see that we [LGBTQIA+ people] were protected”. The pride on display made Naomi feel overwhelming safe; the ability to present openly as part of a community celebrating their identity was incredibly positive, especially to do so in areas that were less familiar and comfortable. The festival is a must-do for anyone wishing to experience the colourful and extensive LGBTQIA+ community that calls Brisbane home.

Moving to a new city is daunting and it can be hard to find new places to go and things to experience outside of your normal weekly routine. This is particularly the case when concerns about inclusivity can add anxiety to an already stressful situation. By providing the above locations and events, we hope to remove some of the worry that can be associated with exploring new things, and even offer various places where you can create respectful support networks outside the university.

Article by Sebastian Hulme-Peake
Bachelor of Advanced Humanities