Sydney will be a real rainbow city come Mardi Gras. After a unanimous vote on last Monday night, Sydney Town Hall will fly the gay and lesbian flag during Mardi Gras and Pride Week in June.

The City of Sydney Council is already responsible for the pride flags that line Oxford St leading up to and during Mardi Gras, but one councilor thought it best to extend the rainbow feel to the centre of the city. The proposal was put forth by councilor Phillip Black after he visited San Francisco pride celebrations, and it seems all other City of Sydney Councilors agree with Black.

According to the City of Sydney, the decision ‘recognises the City’s ongoing commitment to supporting its many GLBT residents, workers and visitors.’

“I’m delighted that Council has endorsed the flying of the rainbow flag during these celebrations in recognition of the flag’s importance to our GLBT community and our commitment to creating a diverse, open and accepting City for all,” says Lord Mayor Clover Moore [pictured right].

Created in 1978, the Pride flag has become a recognisable symbol of the gay community. In case you’ve forgotten, the colours on the flag represent life (red), healing (orange), sunlight (yellow), nature (green), harmony (blue) and spirit (purple).