“We believe this would be a backwards step for inclusion, especially for our [LGBTIQ+] employees who simply want to celebrate being their authentic selves.”

Uniform police will still have a presence at the event to maintain community safety and public order.

A ‘trauma-informed approach’

“We will seek feedback after this year’s trial with regard to the impact on all attendees and participants to inform planning for future years.”

But police participation in pride events is controversial within the LGBTIQ+ community, given their origin out of the protest movement against police oppression of people from the community.

“We urge Victoria Police to commit to systemic reform pertinent to pride, protest, public safety and TGD human rights, including comprehensive cultural sensitivity education and steps towards nuanced and gender-affirming data collection.”

The reprieve followed a decision to ban uniformed officers from joining the 2024 march over concerns about its relationship with the LGBTIQ+ community.