Italian Leichhardt Storytelling Project

Sharing the powerful migration stories that shaped Leichhardt’s Italian community from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Hear stories of the Leichhardt Italian migration experience between the 1920s to the 1960s. Each story reveals a wondrous and heart-rending picture of journeys and arrivals; separations and reunions. 

Recorded by Dani Torresan (Spineless Wonders Audio).

Little Italy


In honour of the many thousands of Italian migrants who have built this country after landing in Leichhardt, Inner West Council successfully applied to have central Leichhardt officially renamed as Little Italy. The Geographic Names Board have confirmed the precinct including Norton and Marion Streets designated as Little Italy.

Inner West Council Mayor, Darcy Byrne said “Leichhardt is recognised across Sydney, Australia and even across the globe as Little Italy.”

Council is 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.

Franca Locantro

Frank Panucci

Frank Portelli

Gina Bortolin Papa

Giuseppe Scarcella

Mary and Thomas Camporeale

Orazio Muratore

Page last updated: 21 Jan 2026