10 Considerations When Choosing an Event Space in Melbourne

Melbourne is one of Australia’s busiest business and cultural hubs, which means there’s no shortage of venues to hire for corporate events, workshops, or private gatherings. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? Whether you’re planning a training session for your team, a strategy day with clients, or a small networking event, the space you select can make or break the experience.

To help you narrow down the search, here are ten important considerations to keep in mind when looking for the perfect event space in Melbourne.

1. Location and Accessibility

One of the first things to think about is location. Melbourne’s CBD offers convenience for those travelling by train or tram, but nearby suburbs such as St Kilda provide a balance of accessibility and atmosphere. An event space close to major transport links ensures your guests can arrive on time without the hassle of complicated travel. Parking availability is another factor, especially if your attendees are coming from different parts of the city or region.

For example, a St Kilda venue combines proximity to the city with a more relaxed setting, making it an appealing choice for businesses wanting to get away from the noise of the CBD while still remaining central.

2. Venue Size and Capacity

The size of the venue should reflect the scale of your event. A space designed for 40–45 guests is often ideal for workshops, small conferences, or corporate meetings. Too large a venue can feel empty and impersonal, while a cramped room can affect comfort and concentration.

When comparing Melbourne event venues, always ask for the maximum seated capacity and check whether the space feels suitable for your group size. It’s also worth confirming if outdoor areas are included, as this can extend the capacity for breaks or informal networking.

3. Layout Flexibility

Not every event follows the same format, which is why flexibility in layout is so important. Some gatherings work best in a theatre-style setup, while others require a U-shape, cabaret-style tables, or classroom rows. A good venue will allow you to adapt the room to suit your agenda.

For instance, a workshop with interactive sessions will need space for participants to move around, while a presentation-heavy event may prioritise rows facing a large screen. Ask your venue about layout options in advance to ensure the space supports your program.

4. Technology and Equipment

In today’s professional environment, reliable technology is non-negotiable. At a minimum, you’ll want fast Wi-Fi, a quality sound system, and a large screen for presentations. Some Melbourne venues also provide projectors, microphones, or video-conferencing capabilities - particularly useful for hybrid events with remote participants.

If your chosen space includes this equipment in the hire fee, it’s a major bonus. Otherwise, you may need to budget for external hire. Testing the technology before your event day is also essential to avoid last-minute issues.

5. Catering and Food Options

Food plays a bigger role in corporate events than many people realise. Well-timed catering keeps energy levels up and creates opportunities for informal conversations. When reviewing event venues in Melbourne, ask about catering facilities.

Some venues provide in-house catering packages, while others allow external suppliers. Even if you plan to bring in your own food and drink, you’ll need space for setup — whether that’s a buffet station, tea and coffee area, or formal dining service. Flexibility here can make your planning much easier.

6. Indoor Comfort and Outdoor Breakout Areas

Events can run for hours, and sitting indoors all day can affect focus. Having an outdoor breakout area is a huge advantage. A garden, courtyard, or pergola gives attendees a place to stretch, enjoy fresh air, and reset between sessions.

Venues that combine indoor function rooms with tranquil outdoor areas create a more enjoyable overall experience. This is especially relevant in Melbourne, where the weather often allows for outdoor breaks during most of the year.

7. Atmosphere and Style

The look and feel of a venue may seem secondary to logistics, but atmosphere matters. A professional yet welcoming environment sets the tone for your event. Garden surroundings, natural light, or stylish interiors can help attendees feel comfortable and engaged.

When comparing event spaces in Melbourne, visit in person if possible. Pay attention to how the room feels - is it modern, relaxed, or too formal for your audience? The right atmosphere can encourage creativity and productivity.

8. Privacy and Exclusivity

Many corporate events involve sensitive discussions, so privacy is important. Ensure your venue offers exclusive use during your booking time. Some venues host multiple events simultaneously, which can lead to noise or interruptions.

Dedicated event spaces in smaller venues often provide more privacy than large hotels with multiple functions running at once. This gives you confidence that your event will run without distractions.

9. Value for Money

Hiring a venue is an investment, and value for money should be a key consideration. Look beyond the base hire fee and consider what’s included. Complimentary Wi-Fi, use of outdoor spaces, and access to presentation equipment can all add significant value.

It’s worth asking for a full breakdown of what’s covered in the hire cost to avoid unexpected extras. Sometimes a slightly higher upfront cost provides much better inclusions and convenience, saving you money in the long run.

10. Added Touches and Amenities

Finally, think about the small details that make a venue stand out. Easy parking, natural light, comfortable seating, or a peaceful garden setting can elevate the overall experience. These extras don’t just benefit attendees - they reflect well on you as the organiser.

Guests are more likely to leave with a positive impression when the environment feels cared for and thoughtful.

Bringing It All Together

Choosing the right event space in Melbourne is about more than ticking boxes — it’s about creating the right environment for your guests and ensuring the day runs smoothly. By keeping these ten considerations in mind - location, size, flexibility, technology, catering, indoor and outdoor balance, atmosphere, privacy, value, and added touches - you can select a venue that truly suits your needs.

A Note on Kimberley Gardens

If you’re weighing up options, venues like Kimberley Gardens in St Kilda naturally tick many of these boxes. With indoor capacity for 40–45 guests, a large presentation screen, reliable Wi-Fi, outdoor seating under a pergola, and tranquil gardens, it’s well suited for small to medium corporate gatherings. The combination of professional facilities and relaxed surroundings makes it a versatile choice for workshops, meetings, and networking events.