Looking for function venue hire in Melbourne? We’ve made it easy by listing the city’s best options all in one place. Whether it’s a stylish rooftop in the CBD, a relaxed bar in Fitzroy, a waterfront space in Docklands, or a lively venue in St Kilda, there are plenty of choices on offer. With Partystar, you can see prices upfront, compare venues quickly, and avoid wasting time phoning around. Most venues include a free $100 bar tab, adding extra value to your booking. Start browsing below and find the perfect venue!
(Don't forget: we throw in free bar tabs at most venues.)
Melbourne's got thousands of venues. Rooftop bars with awesome views, warehouse spaces with exposed brick, hidden laneway bars that feel like secret discoveries. Here's what years of booking Melbourne venues taught us about finding the perfect spot:
The CBD is convenient and everyone knows Flinders Street Station. But there is so much more to Melbourne than just the city.
Throwing a 30th for creative types who live in the inner north? Venues in Fitzroy or Collingwood could mean half your guests can walk home. People relax more, stay later, enjoy themselves just that little extra. On the other hand, if it includes families and elderly parents, somewhere near parking or a train station makes everyone's night easier.
Here's what each area brings:
CBD and Southbank Highly accessible. The Free Tram Zone is popular, and with such a range of options, you'll find a vibe that suits. From cocktail bars to river-view terraces, it's all here.
Fitzroy, Collingwood, Brunswick These neighbourhoods have warehouse spaces with stories, bars with real character, sticky floors. The inner-north has charm, and it'll show up in your event.
South Yarra, Prahran, Windsor Chapel Street runs through here with everything from intimate wine bars to lavish function spaces. You get decent parking, and that mix of classy and relaxed.
St Kilda, Elwood Beach parties. Summer events are magic when the sun hits the bay. The area has a relaxed vibe.
Richmond, Cremorne Underrated. Swan Street in particular has venues that are fun without the price-tag. Easy train access, plenty of variety, yet still central.
The best venue makes your guests excited before they've even shown up. When people are pumped about the location itself, your event's off to a fantastic start.
Before you start browsing venues, ask yourself:
Once you have those details, you’re halfway there.
Melbourne’s event spaces are as varied as the city itself. Here’s a quick overview:
There are a few common ways venues structure their pricing:
Tip: Don’t assume “free hire” means no cost. Usually, you’ll need to commit to a bar tab or food spend—but that’s money you’d spend anyway.
Ask for an itemised quote before confirming. It saves headaches later.
Tip: Ask if venues offer reduced rates for quieter nights if you’re flexible.
Food and drink options vary widely: finger food, grazing tables, sit-down meals. Drinks packages give cost certainty; bar tabs offer flexibility. Want a DJ or live band? Ask about sound limits, curfews, and AV equipment.
Older buildings and laneways can have tricky stairs. Ask about ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets. CBD parking can be tight, so suburban pubs with big carparks can save stress.
Create a shortlist of 3–5 venues. Compare cost, size, layout, availability, accessibility, and flexibility. Visiting even one alternative can reveal better value or vibe.
Arrive early to check setup, decorations, and signage. Ensure the venue contact is on-site.
Finding the perfect function venue in Melbourne doesn’t have to be stressful. Once you define your needs and do some research, the city’s many spaces make it easy to find something special. With a little planning, you’ll have a great space and a night your guests will remember.
