"She Matters" Mural Removed from Hosier Lane for Theatre Renovations
A memorial installation known as the "She Matters" mural was removed from Hosier Lane in Melbourne last Friday. The removal was carried out to facilitate exterior rectification works on the adjacent heritage-listed Forum Theatre. The City of Melbourne has stated it will work with the mural's artists to find a new location for the installation.
About the Mural
The "She Matters" mural was installed on International Women's Day in 2024. It featured the names, photographs, and artistic images of more than 200 Australian women who are reported to have died due to violence.
The installation was maintained by the Red Hearts Campaign and Sherele Moody, founder of Australian Femicide Watch. The mural had been vandalized in 2025 and was subsequently repaired by volunteers.
Why It Was Removed
The mural was removed as part of ongoing renovation work on the Forum Theatre building. A 2024 heritage report indicated parts of the theatre's facade were at risk of collapse, requiring urgent work for public safety. The duration of the current renovation work is undefined.
Multiple reasons for the mural's removal have been cited by the involved parties:
- Building Renovations: The Marriner Group, which owns and operates the Forum Melbourne, stated that necessary rectification works had to move to the Hosier Lane side of the building.
- Lane Policy: A spokesperson for the Marriner Group noted that while Hosier Lane is an evolving space for street art, poster installations are not permitted there.
- Safety Concerns: Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece stated the City of Melbourne was informed that materials used to maintain the mural were blocking emergency exits to the Forum Theatre, creating a safety risk.
The Marriner Group spokesperson stated the artist was notified in advance of the removal to allow for documentation or relocation of the installation.
Reactions and the Path Forward
Sherele Moody, the mural's co-maintainer, stated she was devastated to find the mural removed. She reported going to add a 204th image to the memorial when she discovered it had been taken down.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece said the council would prioritize finding a new home for the mural, aiming to balance the theatre's restoration with keeping the artwork visible and impactful.
The Marriner Group spokesperson acknowledged the sensitivity and significance of the installation.
Additional Context
- Hosier Lane is a laneway famous for its street art and is a popular tourist destination.
- The Forum Theatre, adjacent to the mural site, first opened in 1929.