The rainbow flag has flown outside Brisbane City Hall for the first time, to signify the city's support for International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia.
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Supporters rallied in Queen's Park on Sunday morning before walking to King George Square, where they held a minute's silence for victims of homophobic or transphobic abuse.
Around 20 people raised a giant rainbow flag and sang, before inviting others to stand beneath it.
Convenor of the Brisbane LGBTIQ Action Group Phil Brown said seeing the flag was a sign of hope.
"Not only to the many marginalised LGBT people themselves, but also to mainstream society about the harm that discrimination and prejudice has on real people, who could be their neighbours, friends, relatives and workmates," he said.
"Flying the flag will begin conversations over the breakfast table and in the work tea-room. These conversations will bring about greater understanding, break down barriers and promote respect for all citizens."
The lights on the Story Bridge would also glow in the rainbow colours on Sunday night, including purple, the official colour of IDAHOT.
#StoryBridgeLights go #Rainbow to support International Day against Homophobia #Brisbane pic.twitter.com/KsnP7PeM74— StoryBridgeLights (@bridgelights)
May 17, 2015
Mr Brown said such gestures were significant to the queer community.
"[There is] celebration to have recognition and validation that LGBT residents actually exist, and the uplifting effect this has knowing this message is being shared with the wider community in which we all live," he said.
In Australia, someone who is the target of homophobia is six times more likely to take their own life than a straight friend.
Jane Foster-Cosgrove volunteers with church groups helping to promote better mental health, and attended the rally and flag-raising with her husband to show support for the LGBTIQ community.
"The consequences of homophobia right across the age groups is just horrific, regardless of any other perspective anyone may have around the issue of gay rights," the 59-year-old grandmother said.
"I don't believe anybody can stand back from it... the impact on our young people of homophobia is devastating."
2015 marks the tenth annual IDAHOT, with Biphobia also added to the name of the day this year.
May 17 was picked as the date because it marks the day in 1990 that the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases, where it had been listed as a mental disorder.
Headspace provides support for young people; anyone in distress can call Kids Help Line on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
