Visiting Melbourne

Melbourne is one of Australia’s most vibrant, diverse and welcoming cities — a place where creativity, culture and community thrive. For LGBTQIA+ travellers, the city offers a rich blend of inclusive spaces, celebrated queer history, and a warm, open atmosphere that makes every visitor feel at home.

A city that celebrates diversity

Melbourne has long been recognised as a hub of LGBTQIA+ culture in Australia. From its thriving arts scene to its inclusive nightlife and community events, the city embraces diversity in all its forms. Whether you’re exploring iconic laneways, enjoying world-class dining, or connecting with local queer communities, you’ll find a city that celebrates individuality and expression.

Experience the Midsumma Festival

Your visit for the Pride and Progress in Pharmacy Conference coincides with Midsumma Festival, Melbourne’s premier LGBTQIA+ arts and culture celebration. Running each summer, Midsumma brings the city to life with more than three weeks of performances, exhibitions, parties, and community events. 2027 Midsumma calendar to be confirmed.

Festival Highlights

●        Midsumma Carnival

A huge outdoor celebration in Alexandra Gardens featuring performances, community stalls, food, and entertainment.

●        Midsumma Pride March

A powerful and joyful march through St Kilda celebrating visibility, solidarity, and community pride.

●        Arts & Performance

Theatre, cabaret, drag, dance, visual arts, and storytelling from local and international queer artists.

With the conference taking place during this vibrant period, attendees can immerse themselves in Melbourne’s queer culture and enjoy the city at its most colourful and inclusive.

Neighbourhoods to explore

●        Fitzroy & Collingwood – The heart of Melbourne’s queer culture, known for eclectic bars, street art, and inclusive venues.

●        St Kilda – A relaxed bayside suburb with a long LGBTQIA+ history, perfect for beach walks, cafes, and sunset views.

●        South Yarra – Visit Chapel St for shopping restaurants and bars and Commercial Rd as the original LGBTQIA+ epicentre

●        Southbank & CBD – Close to the conference venue, offering galleries, theatres, restaurants, and easy transport connections.

Queer-friendly spaces & nightlife

Melbourne’s LGBTQIA+ nightlife is diverse and welcoming, with venues ranging from relaxed cocktail lounges to energetic dance floors. Many host drag shows, queer arts events and community gatherings throughout the year.

Safety & inclusion

Melbourne is widely regarded as a safe and inclusive destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers. Public spaces, transport and hospitality venues are known for their welcoming approach. As always, visitors are encouraged to engage with the city in ways that feel comfortable and authentic to them.

Getting around

Melbourne’s extensive tram, train, and bus network makes it easy to explore the city.

The conference venue is within the Melbourne CBD Free Tram Zone, where a ticket is not required for travel. A myki card is required for travel on trams outside the Free Tram Zone and for travel on suburban trains and buses.

Melbourne Airport is located around 25 minutes from the city centre, making transfers to the conference venue at Federation Square simple and convenient. Travellers can choose from a range of options, including the SkyBus, which offers frequent express services to Southern Cross Station, as well as taxis, rideshare services, and private shuttles available directly from the terminal.

A warm welcome awaits