About Viva Leichhardt

Viva Leichhardt is a not for profit business alliance working to restore the sparkle, spirit and soul of Little Italy in Leichhardt.

For more than 70 years, Leichhardt has been a hub of Italian culture in Sydney. Our streets are filled with the aroma of authentic Italian cuisine, the melodies of Italian conversation, and the vibrancy of our community spirit.

Leichhardt is more than just a suburb; it is a living story, a melting pot of memories and traditions. Behind every brick and every cobblestone, there are stories of generations, dreams, and flavors that have come together to shape our "Little Italy".

Viva Leichhardt brings together businesses across the area to collaborate, activate and advocate for a thriving local community, with events and activations that resonate with the rich, multicultural identity of Leichhardt. Our aim is to deliver sustainable spaces that reflect our dedication to both cultural heritage and the environment.

Our mission

Our vision is to transform Leichhardt into a thriving cultural hub, where the timeless charm of Italian heritage seamlessly merges with the modern spirit of Sydney. Through strategic planning, active community engagement, and a calendar full of exciting events, we aim to cultivate a precinct that is lively, inclusive, and resilient—both culturally and economically.

Collective business investment

Viva Leichhardt is a growing alliance of local businesses and land owners in Leichhardt who are committed to the revitalisation of Little Italy as a destination. Together we are working together to co-invest in initiatives which will help Leichhardt become an even more thriving hub for culture in Sydney.

Celebration and recognition of local culture

Italian Australians have made a significant contribution to the culture of Sydney and Australia. Leichhardt is the birthplace of this Italian culture. Over the years, the area has evolved to become even more diverse, a true melting pot of multicultural Sydney. Our aim is to celebrate and recognise this, as well as first nations people both past and current.

Events and activations

Our organisation and members run a series of events throughout the year to activate and enhance the local experience of Leichhardt, from the Norton Street Italian Festa, to the Valentines Day activation. We are currently planning our next event, to be announced soon.

Co-investment with government and local council

Viva Leichhardt aims to leverage funding from local business and landowners to co-invest in projects with local government and state government, including placemaking, wayfinding, artistic and cultural enhancements, as well as events and activations which increase the vibrancy of our area.