The Imperial Hotel has long been an iconic venue, long cherished as a safe space and cultural hub for the queer community. It now joins the ranks of other protected landmarks that embody inclusivity and resilience.
Originally established in 1881, The Imperial Hotel building dates back to 1940. Its transformation into a haven for Sydney's LGBTIQ+ community began in 1983 when renowned lesbian figure Dawn O'Donnell purchased the venue. During this time, homosexuality was still illegal in NSW. O'Donnell, however, went ahead and reimagined the Imperial as a vibrant and welcoming space for the queer community. Over the decades, the Imperial Hotel has become synonymous with drag performances and community.
The hotel gained international fame through its appearance in the beloved 1994 Australian film 'The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert', cementing its place in Australian cultural history.
Heritage Minister Penny Sharpe emphasised preserving spaces like the Imperial Hotel, saying,
"Places like this have always been important to the LGBTQIA+ community—they remain safe spaces where we've celebrated, danced, and resisted."
She also highlighted her personal connection to the venue as a young queer woman.
Sydney MP Tanya Plibersek echoed these sentiments, describing the hotel as "home to stories of love, pride, protest, and resistance." She added that its inclusion on the State Heritage Register ensures that its legacy will be preserved for generations to come.
Universal Hotels, which currently owns the Imperial Hotel, expressed pride in being custodians of such a historic venue. Chief Operating Officer Richie Haines stated:
"We are keenly aware of the hotel's history and significance to the LGBTIQ+ community and are pleased that this has been enshrined for many generations to come."
The listing comes amid broader efforts by the City of Sydney to preserve LGBTIQ+ landmarks. Iconic Oxford Street venues such as the Oxford Hotel, Palms nightclub, and Universal (formerly Midnight Shift) have also been nominated for heritage status due to their contributions to Sydney's queer history. These initiatives reflect growing recognition of LGBTIQ+ spaces as integral parts of Australia's cultural fabric.
The heritage listing coincides with plans for a $1 million revamp of the Imperial Hotel, including a new atrium designed to enhance its role as a community gathering space.
As the city of Sydney continues to honor its queer history through preservation efforts, venues like the Imperial Hotel stand as enduring symbols of acceptance and pride.
For generations past and future, Erskineville's Imperial Hotel remains not just a building but a beacon of hope and celebration for LGBTIQ+ community.
