(Community Recognition Statement, 8 May 2019, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate I celebrate the life of long-time LGBTQIA+ activist and community hero Ron Austin, who recently passed away at the age of 90. 

Ron was an early member of the Campaign Against Moral Persecution [CAMP], which was one of the first groups fighting for equality in Australia and he was especially involved in the political action committee. He was a founding member of the gay telephone counselling service. Ron was a proud 78er, marching in every Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. The Most Fabulous Parade Entry Mardi Gras award is named in his honour. He is credited with coming up with the idea for the first Mardi Gras when he asked, "Why don't we have a street party?" Ron later became an active member of the Pride History Group, helping record our history and the ongoing fight for justice. I thank Ron for his contribution to our fabulous global city and Australia's LGBTQIA+ community.