PRIDE WA is to relocate its headquarters to Northbridge Piazza.

As the Voice foreshadowed after the cat was inadvertently let out of the bag during recent council discussions, the organisation has been negotiating a move into the city (“Wounded Pride forgives Perth,” Voice, July 30, 2022).

It’s now been confirmed Pride’s moving out of its long-time HQ in gay-friendly Vincent council after successfully bidding to be the primary tenant at the Northbridge Piazza, which is currently vacant.

Pride will use the spaceas offices and an event and meeting hub for the LGBTQIA+ community, and will now hold public consultation on what events people want to see with suggestions of market days and film airings on the Piazza screen. 

Last month the council changed the piazza to a “community” use classification, meaning it’s eligible for a peppercorn lease and the council covers the rates, maintenance and renewal costs. There used to be a commercial tenant in there but it’s been vacant since they went out of business, and with the current vacancy rate in Northbridge and the site’s tricky positioning set so far back from the street, the council was unlikely to find someone to pay commercial rent.

Lord mayor Basil Zempilas said in a media statement: “The City’s Pride Piazza reaffirms Perth as a national leader for celebrating and championing diversity and inclusion ‚Äì and I can’t think of a better, more vibrant neighbourhood for Pride WA to call home.”

“The Piazza is the heart and soul of Northbridge and we’re excited to see rainbow events and activities lighting up the Piazza throughout the year. This is a wonderful opportunity for businesses, locals and visitors to enjoy more activations throughout the year.”

Pride WA CEO Choon Tan said: “Pride WA is thrilled to have the generous support of the City of Perth in making Pride Piazza a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ and wider Northbridge Community to meet in what we hope will become a globally-recognised LGBTQIA+ landmark.

“Having a ‘home’ for Perth’s queer community is a significant milestone as it means Pride WA and LGBTQIA+ groups and start-ups can access facilities and thrive together.”

by DAVID BELL