Western embraces unlimited freedom and endless dreams at Mardi Gras 2025
Western Sydney University is excited to continue our tradition of participating in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. This year, our students, staff and alumni will march together on Saturday, 1 March 2025.
The parade is Australia’s largest celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and otherwise sexuality and/or gender-diverse communities (LGBTQIA+).
The theme of the 2025 Sydney Mardi Gras is ‘Free to be’, a mandate that has been part of the LGBTQIA+ community since the first protest march, 47 years ago. The Western Sydney University contingent of staff, students and alumni will be marching under the theme ‘Free to reach endless dreams. Empowered to be my true self’.
Joining the parade this year will be Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO who is proud to be supporting the LGBTQIA+ community at Western Sydney University.
"The University has been a proud supporter of the Sydney Mardi Gras for over a decade. It is an honour to be attending this vibrant celebration for the first time as the head of this sector-leading organisation,” said Professor Williams.
“Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is unwavering, and I am thrilled to stand alongside the members of our LGBTQIA+ community at this joyous event. Together, we will continue to champion equity, acceptance, and the freedom for everyone to be their truest selves."
This year’s 40-person contingent will also include: Professor Alphia Possamai-Inesedy, Pro Vice-Chancellor Student Success; Glenn Campbell, CEO of The College; Professor Catherine Renshaw, Dean, School of Law; Kirsty Dwyer, Chief People Officer and Michelle Falconer, Director, Equity Inclusion and Wellbeing.
As part of this year’s Mardi Gras celebrations the University has also unveiled installation of the progressive pride flag on the steps between buildings EA and EB at the Parramatta South campus. This permanent feature isn’t just a beautiful addition to campus, it’s a powerful symbol of pride, inclusion, and love.
The installation was unveiled on Sunday, 23 February 2025, in a small ceremony with Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott AO and Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President, Indigenous Leadership.
Support for students and staff at Western Sydney University includes the Queer Collective, Rainbow Western and the Ally Network – groups and initiatives committed to creating an inclusive and respectful culture.
To find out more information about these and other initiatives, please visit the Equity, Inclusion and Belonging website.
For more information on Western Sydney University’s 2025 Mardi Gras Parade and community events, please visit our Mardi Gras page.
ENDS
24 February 2025
Mardi Gras 2025
Free to be at Western – students celebrate true self-expression and inclusion at Mardi Gras
For Jelly Van Doorn, participating in Western Sydney University’s contingent of the 2025 Sydney Mardi Gras Parade is important in showing students and staff that they are welcome to be who they are.
Western embraces unlimited freedom and endless dreams at Mardi Gras 2025
Western Sydney University is excited to continue our tradition of participating in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.