© 9NewsClose to 2000 protesters are making their way down Sydney's Oxford Street, marching for LGBTQI+ rights ahead of tonight's Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
Close to 2000 protesters are making their way down Sydney's Oxford Street, marching for LGBTQI+ rights ahead of tonight's Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras event at Moore Park.
The so-far peaceful gathering, organised by activist group Pride in Protest, was granted an exemption yesterday from NSW Health COVID-19 restrictions.
NSW Health granted the exemption to exceed the current cap of 500 people at protests after negotiations with event organisers to facilitate easier contact tracing at the event.
© 9NewsThe so-far peaceful gathering, organised by activist group Pride in Protest, was granted an exemption yesterday.
The group is marching for LGBTQI+ rights and is taking the same route as protesters during the first 1978 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
While police withdrew an application to have the exemption denied, there is still a heavy presence of law enforcement ensuring things don't get out of hand at the protest.
"Anyone found committing any social behaviour that is criminal, violence or offensive will be identified quickly and you will be removed," NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Gelina Talbot said.
"Our priority is the safety of the community coming out to celebrate Mardi Gras."
Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, this is the first year the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras will not have floats making their way down Oxford Street.
© 9NewsWhile police withdrew an application to have the exemption denied, there is still a heavy presence of law enforcement ensuring things don't get out of hand at the protest.
Instead, more than 30,000 people will gather at the Sydney Cricket Ground for an official ticketed event with police issuing a warning to those planning to celebrate in the city.
The SCG parade will feature more than 5000 people from over 100 LGBTQI+ community groups as well as a live musical performances.