Perth secures spot as first Australian host of the Gay Games since 2002

Following next year’s Gay Games in Valencia [pictured], Perth has been officially named the host city for the 2030 Games. This announcement, made by the Federation of Gay Games (FGG) following a rigorous two-year global selection process, marks Perth as the first Australian city to host the Games since Sydney in 2002. The final vote took place at the FGG Annual General Assembly in València, Spain, where Perth’s bid triumphed over the United States’ Denver, Colorado, after Auckland, New Zealand withdrew earlier due to funding challenges.

The Gay Games, initiated in 1982 by Olympian Tom Waddell in San Francisco, were born out of the exclusion of LGBTQ+ athletes from mainstream sports. Although the original name Gay Olympics was changed following legal challenges, the Games have steadfastly honoured their founding principles of inclusion, participation, and community pride. Unlike traditional competitive events, the Gay Games impose no qualification barriers or requirements to disclose one’s identity, fostering a welcoming environment for all participants. Over the years, the event has garnered global significance with host cities spanning Amsterdam, Chicago, Paris, and Hong Kong, each contributing to the broadening of a truly international LGBTQ+ sporting and cultural movement.

Perth’s selection was the culmination of a vibrant and comprehensive bid, which outshone local Australian contenders Adelaide and Melbourne and overcame significant international competition. Key to its success was not only the city’s world-class sporting infrastructure and robust community and governmental support but also a powerful narrative of authentic inclusion that resonated deeply with the FGG. Justin Barnes, Chair of Team Perth and Director of Marketing & Community for the bid, acknowledged the mix of nerves and optimism tied to the announcement, reflecting pride in the team’s effort and confidence in Perth’s unique appeal to the LGBTQ+ community.

The Games themselves, set for 9-16 March 2030, will feature up to 36 sports and six cultural events, including grand opening and closing ceremonies. Organisers project that the event will attract thousands of LGBTQIA+ participants and spectators, delivering a significant economic boost to Western Australia through tourism and community engagement. The Cook Government, through Tourism WA, has pledged support, recognising the event’s potential to enhance the region’s profile on an international stage.

Beyond the economic impact, organisers and advocates emphasise the Games’ role in transforming sport for LGBTQ+ Australians by fostering diversity and challenging exclusionary norms. Christine Granger, CEO of Proud 2 Play, highlighted that hosting the Gay Games extends well beyond a single week of competition; it represents a catalyst for changing how sport is experienced and celebrated by LGBTQ+ individuals across the country.

The journey to securing the 2030 Games reflects broader themes in the global LGBTQ+ sporting community, including the vital importance of governmental backing, community mobilisation, and the pursuit of visibility and acceptance. Perth’s successful bid not only continues the legacy established by Sydney’s 2002 Games but also serves as a powerful statement about Australia’s ongoing commitment to fostering safe and inclusive spaces in sport and culture for people of all identities.