The iconic LGBTQIA+ landmark, the Imperial Hotel in Erskineville, has been listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, recognising its deep cultural and historical significance.
“The Imperial Hotel has been at the heart of Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ community for decades, fostering a spirit of inclusivity, creativity and celebration. Its listing on the State Heritage Register ensures this important history is recognised and preserved for generations to come,” said NSW Minister for Heritage, Penny Sharpe.
“Heritage is about more than bricks and mortar – it’s about the stories, communities and movements that shape our society. The Imperial Hotel’s listing not only protects the building, but also recognises its profound contribution to LGBTQIA+ history in NSW.”
The Imperial Hotel was a working man’s pub before it was purchased in 1983 by Dawn O’Donnell, a well-known member of the LGBTQIA+ community and entrepreneur, who transformed it into the vibrant community hub it is today. Dawn was infamous for running gay and lesbian venues during a period when homosexuality was still illegal.
Emerging at a time when laws regarding homosexuality in NSW were being amended, the Imperial Hotel became a welcoming haven for Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ community. Today it stands as the longest running LGBTQIA+ friendly venue outside Oxford Street, running for over 40 years. The pub was instrumental in the development of the Newtown/Erskineville LGBTQIA+ precinct.
The Imperial Hotel gained a national and international reputation for its live drag shows, after featuring in the hit film The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, which features scenes filmed at the Hotel. A live drag show inspired by the film is still performed every Saturday night. More than just a venue, it stands as a symbol of resilience, inclusivity and artistic expression.
“Universal Hotels is a proud custodian of The Imperial Hotel,” said Richie Haines, Chief Operating Officer, Universal Hotels. “We look forward to working with the community to grow, nurture and develop its legacy long into the future.
“We are keenly aware of the hotel’s history and significance to the LGBTQIA+ community and are pleased that this has been enshrined for many generations to come.”
The listing of the Imperial Hotel on the State Heritage Register recognises its cultural significance and ensures its history is protected for future generations. It supports the ongoing operation of the hotel as a beloved LGBTQIA+ venue, while safeguarding its heritage values.
The listing also celebrates what makes the Imperial special – its inclusivity, creativity, and role as a vibrant community hub – by ensuring these values can live on through its ongoing use.
Through additions to the NSW State Heritage Register, the Government is recognising, protecting, preserving and promoting the diverse people, groups, places and events which have contributed to the state’s rich heritage.
Image: The Imperial Hotel, Erskineville (sourced)