Benalla Rural City Council is inviting the community to come together in support of LGBTQIA+ inclusion as part of this year’s IDAHOBIT events.

IDAHOBIT – the International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination – is recognised globally each year on 17 May. Benalla will mark the occasion a little earlier to ensure local businesses, services and community members can take part.

Flag Raising Ceremony
When: 4pm, Thursday 14 May 2026
Where: Benalla Civic Centre, 13 Mair Street, Benalla.

Afternoon Tea
When: Following Flag Raising Ceremony
Where: Benalla Visitor Information Centre, 14 Mair Street, Benalla.

Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the day is an important reminder of the role communities play in creating safe and inclusive spaces.

“IDAHOBIT is about standing with our community as a whole and showing that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and included,” Cr Hearn said.

“When we come together like this, we send a clear message that Benalla Rural City is a community where people can be themselves.”

As part of the week’s activities, the community is invited to a free screening of the Academy Award–winning film Moonlight at Benalla Cinema at 12.30pm, Sunday 17 May. This coming-of-age drama explores identity, belonging and connection.

IDAHOBIT marks the 1990 decision by the World Health Organization to remove homosexuality from the classification of diseases. The day aims to raise awareness of discrimination and promote equality through education and celebration.

For more information, visit the Benalla Rural City Council website or contact Council’s Customer Service team.