Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning announced today that he has approved the City of Port Phillip’s request for Amendment C149. This will allow for the construction the Victorian Pride Centre (VPC) on Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. The Planning Minister’s announcement coincides with the release of the VPC’s construction tender.
The planning approval and release of construction tender marks the beginning of the project construction phase, where the vision and plan for an iconic, safe and inclusive space for LGBTIQ communities becomes reality. Construction will begin in early 2019. The planning permit is expected to be gazetted within the next two weeks.
Jude Munro AO, VPC Board Chair welcomed the announcement and said, “we are thrilled to be able to announce to our communities that their wish for a safe place of belonging and pride is now a reality.”
Ms Munro AO went on to say that “we deserve a place that is truly accepting and reflective of the diversity, vibrancy and strength of LGBTIQ communities”. She thanked Minister Wynne, Martin Foley Minister for Equality, Bernadene Voss City of Port Phillip Mayor and Councillors for their support of the project.
Bernadene Voss, Mayor of City of Port Phillip commented “Port Phillip Council is delighted the Victorian Pride Centre is a step closer to opening its doors on Fitzroy Street. The community consultation we undertook as part of the planning process showed how strongly our community supports this inclusive and important initiative. The VPC will make a great contribution to the renewal of Fitzroy Street as well as bringing cultural, social and economic benefits to St Kilda and Victoria when it takes pride of place on this iconic street.”
Minister Wynne said, “we are getting on with making it a reality, so we have a place for the LGBTQI community to call home in Victoria.”
“The Pride Centre is long overdue – it is exciting news for the LGBTQI community and yet another welcome addition to St Kilda” added Minister for Equality, Martin Foley.
In June, the VPC undertook an Expression of Interest process. Four construction companies have now received construction tender documentation. The EOI process included construction evaluation criteria, in addition companies were required to respond to their understanding of how the project celebrates, bolsters and protects equality, diversity and inclusion. The tender closes on the 28th of November followed by an evaluation process expected to be completed by end-December.
The Pride Centre is due to open in 2020, it will be an Australian first. It will provide Australian LGBTIQ people, communities and allies with an iconic, safe and very literal symbol of pride.
Photo: Lachlan from Geelong, feels safe when he belongs. He believes the Pride Centre will be a place of belonging and acceptance.