Star Observer

The Star Observer has been an LGBTI news publication since 1979, providing independent journalism during moments from the early Mardi Gras protests through the AIDS crisis to the marriage equality campaign. Founded by Michael Glynn during an era when homosexuality was criminalised and Sydney's gay community faced police attacks, the publication emerged from the first Mardi Gras protest march to serve as a voice for LGBTI Australians seeking equality and justice. Throughout its 45-year history, the Star Observer has evolved from a weekly Sydney newspaper to include the Melbourne Star, national magazine editions, and festival guides across Australia's major cities. The publication maintains an online presence with a national website and social media following. Operating as a community-owned, not-for-profit organisation until 2019, the Star Observer was then acquired by Out Publications under the AltMedia umbrella. The publication recently returned to its tabloid newspaper roots for its 40th anniversary, now publishing monthly in Sydney and online. The Star Observer has built a reputation for independent reporting, serving as a news journal for Australia's LGBTI community.