Melb LGBTQI Radio Station Evacuation Linked To 'Divisive' Plebiscite

'Out, Loud & Proud' radio station JOY 94.9FM was evacuated earlier this week after a security threat was received via email.

A JOY representative has since released a statement claiming the threat "highlights the damage that can be done through a divisive public debate about our community’s aspiration to be equal members of society".

The Melbourne station remained on air during the evacuation and followed their emergency response plan, which had been reviewed and tightened following the Pulse nightclub tragedy in Orlando. 

In a media release, JOY stated, "A plebiscite is a delaying and divisive approach to the issue of marriage equality. Parliament can do its job and represent the views of the vast majority of Australians to legislate for marriage equality now, without the need for an unnecessary plebiscite and the risks that it will create for our station, our volunteers, our members and our communities."

JOY also thanked the "outstanding support" they received from Victoria Police in aiding the evacuation: "It is evident that there is a significant amount of respect and appreciation for the work our organisation does and the service we provide to the LGBTI communities of Melbourne and beyond."