About Us
In February 2024, Qtopia Sydney opened its doors to share the journey of the Queer community in Australia.
Through our exhibitions, performances, and programs, we strive to honour the stories of those who paved the way, amplify the voices of the present, and inspire a more inclusive future for all.
Qtopia Sydney is a storyteller – we tell stories through exhibitions, performances and programs, all designed to celebrate, commemorate and most importantly, educate.
Too often, LGBTQIA+ stories have been relegated to side notes in the history books, ignoring the significant contributions that the Queer community has made in all aspects of life – to medicine, the law, the arts, commerce, politics, and so much more. Without these stories being told, prejudice and discrimination will remain against our community.
Whilst many of us have come to Qtopia Sydney at different times for different reasons, the story of Qtopia Sydney itself started nearly 40 years ago, when what began as a doctor/patient relationship evolved into a friendship, and then became a guiding light for community recognition and remembrance.
Qtopia Sydney was born from the vision of the late Professor David Cooper, who dreamed of a space to honour the history of those impacted by HIV/AIDS. This vision was shared by Professor Cooper’s wife, Dorrie, with our Founder, David Polson AM. As one of the first men diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Australia, David Polson participated in 28 drug trials under Professor Cooper’s care. These trials not only led to life-saving medications for AIDS patients, but also enormous medical advancements that have had far-reaching international benefits for the wider community as well.
Inspired by Professor Cooper’s dream, David Polson made it his mission to see this vision to fruition. Pulling together a committee of inspired, passionate individuals, the team set to making Qtopia Sydney come to life.
For each member of the founding committee, and later Board, their reason and need for a place like Qtopia Sydney was individual – for some, it was to honour friends lost to AIDS, Suicide and Hate Crimes. For others, it was to create a house of education to combat bullying.
For everyone, it was to ensure that LGBTQIA+ stories were not only recorded, but were vibrantly told and celebrated.
And so, Qtopia Sydney was born.
Spanning over 1,750 square metres and three distinct sites, Qtopia Sydney is the largest Centre for Queer History and Culture in the World.
More than a museum, Qtopia Sydney explores Queer history from the earliest Indigenous experiences to today’s fight for inclusion. We offer an interactive environment dedicated to storytelling, empowerment and inclusiveness.
We prioritise education to ensure that not only is society’s mindset and language more informed and respectful, but also to encourage all people to stand proudly as themselves, knowing that there is a community behind them. For it is education that can deliver tolerance over intolerance and respect over hate.
Whilst visiting Qtopia Sydney, we ask you to consider these fundamental life concepts through your own lens, and through the experiences of others. When you leave our doors, we hope you are armed with what it means to be inclusive and respectful of everyone’s identity, and with the empathy to find ways to celebrate that within your own community. We believe that this understanding is the best way to replace prejudice and fear with love and confidence.
Qtopia Sydney is an ACNC registered charity with DGR1 status.
A Vision
Making a dream a reality
Before Professor Cooper died, he shared with his wife Dorrie, his vision of a space that would highlight the medical, humanitarian, political and community response to HIV/AIDS in Sydney.
Our Founder, David Polson AM was one of the first 400 men to be diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in Australia. He is one of only 32 still alive today. Having participated in 28 drug trials, David Polson is adamant that his survival and life are due to the care, love and commitment of Professor David Cooper.
When David learned of Professor Cooper’s dream, he made it his mission to make it a reality. From there, Qtopia Sydney was born. Along with a group of dedicated people, caring sponsors and vocal supporters, Qtopia Sydney not only tells the story of HIV/AIDS, but celebrates the growth and spirit of the LGBTQIA+ community in this country and beyond.
Our Location
Our main building: A legacy reclaimed
Located at 301 Forbes Street, the former Darlinghurst Police Station stands as a powerful symbol of Sydney’s vibrant yet tumultuous past. This building is intrinsically tied to the mistreatment and oppression faced by the city’s LGBTQIA+ community, as well as the resilience and strength that define its history.
Transforming this historic site into the home of Queer history and culture is an act of reclamation—an opportunity to amplify the voices of those who fought valiantly for equality and recognition. It is a tribute to the past and a commitment to empowering future generations to honour the journey that has shaped the freedoms we celebrate today.
Situated at the crossroads of Queer nightlife, entertainment and cultural landmarks like the National Art School, the Sydney Jewish Museum, Eternity Playhouse and Oxford Street, Qtopia Sydney bridges history, community and creativity.
