About Us

A Short History of Fitzroy Street

Fitzroy Street stands as one of St Kilda’s most culturally rich and historically layered boulevards. Named in the mid-1800s after Sir Charles Augustus FitzRoy — Governor of New South Wales and Governor-General of the Australian colonies — the street quickly evolved into the lively gateway to Melbourne’s favourite seaside playground. Its early decades saw grand hotels, theatres, restaurants and cafés shaping a social strip that attracted locals and travellers alike.

Through the 20th century, Fitzroy Street became a beacon for artists, musicians and free thinkers. Beloved artist Mirka Mora was central to this creative energy, leaving her mark through her whimsical murals, distinctive style and deep connection to the St Kilda arts community. Her influence helped cement the neighbourhood’s reputation for bohemian expression and artistic experimentation.

Fitzroy Street also played an iconic role in Australia’s entertainment and queer history. The first professional drag show in Melbourne — the famous “Les Girls” revue — opened at the Ritz Hotel (now part of the George Hotel), paving the way for decades of drag, cabaret and queer nightlife. From the 1970s onward, the street became a centre of LGBTQIA+ culture, activism and celebration — a legacy proudly carried forward by the Victorian Pride Centre, Australia’s first purpose-built home for LGBTQIA+ organisations, now standing proudly on Fitzroy Street.

Music has long been woven into the soul of the precinct. Venues along the strip have welcomed an extraordinary array of performers over the years, from emerging local acts to world-renowned names. Artists such as Lenny Kravitz, Nick Cave, Bob Geldof, Paul Kelly, The Living End, Tim Rogers, Midnight Oil, INXS and even Billie Eilish have all had connections to St Kilda’s legendary live-music scene, reinforcing Fitzroy Street’s status as a cultural and creative landmark.

Today, Fitzroy Street continues to evolve while honouring its colourful past. It has become a vibrant dining destination, home to a remarkable diversity of global cuisines including Sri Lankan, South American, West African, Mexican, Italian and many more. Its eateries, bars, cafés and venues keep the street buzzing from morning to late night, reflecting the multicultural spirit at the heart of St Kilda.

A place where heritage meets modern culture, where creativity thrives and communities gather, Fitzroy Street remains one of Melbourne’s most dynamic and meaningful urban corridors.