Optus signs as Presenting Partner of Sydney Mardi Gras Film Festival

Yes! 

We are thrilled to welcome Optus on board as Presenting Partner of the Mardi Gras Film Festival. MGFF will be a major event in the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras / World Pride calendar in February 2023. 

Optus has announced its role as Presenting Partner with Queer Screen’s Mardi Gras Film Festival for the next three years.

The announcement coincides with the establishment of Optus’ new LGBTQIA+ employee network called Express Yourself – part of Optus’ Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging strategy.

The strategy also includes formalised employee networks for Women, Ability and Disability, Culture and Heritage, and Veterans and Services, and allies.

Commenting on the sponsorship Optus managing director marketing and revenue Matt Williams said, “It is thrilling to announce our support of Mardi Gras and Sydney WorldPride 2023 at a time when embracing and celebrating diversity and individuality is more important than ever.

“It’s been a tough two years locally and globally, and we know the optimism that comes from one of the most important and renowned international pride festivals. The theme, United We Shine, is absolutely the tonic needed as the world gradually begins to open up.”

Williams said with the biennial global WorldPride heading to the Southern Hemisphere for the first time in 2023, it is particularly important to continue to advocate for equality, visibility and social justice.

“The LGBTQIA+ community have long shown resilience and commitment for a safer and more inclusive world, particularly in Australia from the pioneering [Mardi Gras] 78ers to the advocation for marriage equality and everything in between.”

“Optus is standing proud in our support of the LGBTQIA+ community and wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe Mardi Gras festival, and we can’t wait to connect with the community at Fair Day and the Parade.”

Mardi Gras Film Festival is part of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras festival program.

“We are ecstatic about welcoming Optus on board as a Presenting Partner for the next three years and look forward to seeing Optus employees and customers at the Mardi Gras Film Festival this month,” Queer Screen co-chair Cheryl Kavanagh said.

“We see our core values – diversity, inspiration, creativity, inclusiveness and pride – reflected in Optus’ Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging strategy,” added co-chair Abs Osseiran. “While the aims of the LGBTQIA+ employee network, called Express Yourself, are undoubtedly aligned with our vision to celebrate queer identities on screen!”