Leichhardt to be recognised as Little Italy

Thursday 13 February 2020

Inner West Council voted unanimously last night to formally apply to have central Leichhardt officially renamed as Little Italy.

Council will apply to the Geographic Names Board to have a precinct including Norton and Marion Streets designated as Little Italy.

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said the feedback from community consultation had found the move to acknowledge Leichhardt’s heritage was strongly supported.

“This honours the many thousands of Italian migrants who have built this country after landing in Leichhardt,” Byrne said.

“Leichhardt is recognised across Sydney, Australia and even across the globe as Little Italy.”

Council will be working with the Italian Government, Co.As.It and Italian organisations and businesses throughout Leichhardt to bring new public art, prominent signage and events to the old neighbourhood to celebrate it as Australia’s own Little Italy.

The decision follows the successful naming last year of Little Portugal in Petersham, which recognises the close ties of that area with the Portuguese community.

For media enquiries, contact Elizabeth Heath, Media and Communications Coordinator, 2 9392 5334 or Elizabeth.Heath@innerwest.nsw.gov.au