There was no shortage of colour and skin on show as tens of thousands hit the streets for Melbourne’s annual pride march.

A bright and colourful crowd gathered at Ian Johnson Oval in St Kilda on Sunday morning before embarking on the Midsumma Pride March.

More than 200 community groups marched in the event, watched on by thousands of people who’d lined the route along Fitzroy Street.

Organisers expected 50,000 people to attend the march, one of the signature celebrations of Melbourne’s three-week LGBTIQ+ cultural festival.

Although the march returned last year, the 2023 edition marks the first without restrictions since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020.

“LGBTIQ+ are a resilient community and that is shown here today by the record numbers that are out here marching to celebrate their authentic selves,” Commissioner for LGBTIQ+ Communities Todd Fernando told reporters.

As is tradition, the “Dykes on Bikes” brigade preceded the march, led by Boon Wurrung Elders, a Rainbow Aboriginal Float and Premier Daniel Andrews.

Mr Andrews was joined by his wife Catherine, Mr Fernando, Equality Minister Harriet Shing and federal Labor MP Josh Burns after announcing fresh grants for LGBTIQ+ organisations and groups.

The march, which has been an annual event since 1996, demonstrates equality is a non-negotiable in Victoria, Mr Andrews said.

“With record crowds, record numbers of different organisations marching, more tickets sold across pride events and Midsumma events than any year previously, I think it’s just proof positive that this is a state that values inclusion,” he said.

Ms Shing couldn’t resist gently ribbing Sydney while spruiking Melbourne’s diversity credentials.

“Melbourne has recently been voted the fourth most LGBTIQ+-friendly city in the world. Sydney’s got a way to go and we look forward to them joining us in the top 10 at some point,” she said.