Best Awards Dinner Venues Melbourne for Hire

From a local grassroots level to the highest, most elite level, award dinners are always a glitzy, celebratory affair. There are a few non-negotiables: superb AV facilities, a stage, and a smooth-flowing layout. But maybe you need something a bit bigger? Smaller? By the water? Whatever your budget or brief, Melbourne has a number of incredible venues to host an amazing awards dinner. Let VenueNow help you find and book an ideal awards dinner venue in Melbourne. Start planning your impressive events and stylish celebrations!

Where will I find the best awards dinner venue in Melbourne?

There are many gala dinner venues in Melbourne, including award-winning restaurants, five-star hotels, stylish pubs and plenty of other choices. Narrow down your list by deciding which Melbourne suburb you'll have your gala dinner in.

Melbourne CBD

Melbourne CBD is the city's beating heart and there are plenty of gala dinner venues to hire here. The Melbourne Central Business District is home to a wide range of event spaces. If you're looking for an iconic Melbourne venue, the Grand Hyatt Melbourne is one of the most popular hotels in town and has several large function spaces, as well as a ballroom that can accommodate up to 700 guests. If you're looking for a high-end gala dinner venue, The Hotel Windsor is one of Melbourne's most iconic hotels and offers a number of luxurious function spaces.

Additionally, Collins Street, often referred to as the "Paris End" of Melbourne, is known for its elegant architecture, high-end boutiques, and prestigious dining establishments. This iconic street is lined with a range of venues that are perfect for hosting awards dinners.

Southbank, Victoria

Just across the Yarra River from Melbourne CBD is the arts and entertainment precinct of Southbank. Southbank is known for its incredible dining options, so it's no surprise that there are several great gala dinner venues here.

The Southbank Promenade is a vibrant area lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Many of these venues have private dining areas or event spaces that are perfect for hosting awards dinners.

Carlton North

Located just north of the Melbourne CBD, Carlton North is a trendy and up-and-coming suburb that offers a range of unique venues for hosting awards dinners. This vibrant neighbourhood boasts a mix of modern and historic spaces, making it an ideal choice for those looking for something different.

Port Melbourne

If you're looking for a gala dinner venue with a view, Port Melbourne is the perfect spot. This beachside suburb is home to a number of waterfront restaurants with private function spaces, perfect for an intimate awards dinner.

North Melbourne

North Melbourne is another great area to consider for your awards dinner venue. This vibrant suburb offers a range of unique and stylish options that will impress your guests. From industrial event space hires to luxury event venue hires, you can find the perfect awards dinner venue in North Melbourne.

South Yarra

South Yarra is one of Melbourne's most stylish suburbs and is home to some of the city's best shopping and dining. Perfect for corporate functions , South Yarra is also an ideal location for hosting prestigious events likes awards dinners. The suburb offers a variety of luxurious venues that can cater to both large and intimate events.

Richmond

Richmond is another great inner-city suburb with a number of excellent corporate event venue hires. Richmond is known for its lively bar scene, so if you're looking for a more relaxed awards dinner venue, this is the perfect spot.

South Melbourne

Just a short distance away from Richmond is South Melbourne, another fantastic suburb with a range of options for awards dinner venues. South Melbourne offers a mix of contemporary and historic venues that can cater to various event styles and sizes.

West Melbourne

West Melbourne is also worth considering when looking for awards dinner venues in Melbourne. This up-and-coming neighbourhood offers a unique blend of modernity and heritage, providing a range of options to suit your event needs.

What are the popular kinds of awards dinner venues in Melbourne?

There are different kinds of venues you can choose from when it comes to awards dinners and, just as with any other special event, the venue must be suitable for the occasion. As this is an awards dinner, the venue you choose should also have room for a stage or elevated platform for the presentation of awards. Some of the most popular types of awards dinner venues in Melbourne include:

Restaurants

Restaurants are one of the most versatile gala dinner venues because they come in all shapes and sizes, from fine dining to more casual establishments. There is even an option for exclusive venue hire. If you want an awards dinner that's more intimate, then consider booking a private room at a restaurant where you can have your own space for the event. Private dining rooms in restaurants offer a more exclusive and intimate setting for your awards dinner. These rooms are often equipped with audiovisual equipment, allowing you to seamlessly incorporate presentations or speeches into your event. Additionally, many restaurants have experienced event coordinators who can assist with customizing the menu and décor to suit your needs.

Hotels

Hotels are another popular choice for awards dinners, especially if you have out-of-town guests who will be attending the event. Many hotels also have their own restaurants, so you can kill two birds with one stone by booking a hotel as your venue. This is the perfect gala dinner venue as it has everything you need in one place: rooms for your guests, a restaurant for the dinner and, of course, a bar for post-dinner drinks. Your awards night at a hotel can be a luxurious and convenient experience for both you and your guests.

Bars

Bars are becoming increasingly popular as gala dinner venues because they offer a more relaxed atmosphere than some of the other options on this list. If you're looking for a fun and festive awards dinner, then a bar could be the perfect venue for you. Just be sure to book early as these types of venues can get very busy, very quickly!

Conference Centre/event spaces

In need of the largest event space for your private parties? There are many purpose-built conference and event spaces in Melbourne that are ideal for hosting an awards dinner. These venues usually have everything you need under one roof, from stage and AV equipment to a large space that can be easily configured to your specific needs.

Warehouse venues

Warehouse venues are becoming increasingly popular for all sorts of events, including gala dinners and cocktail parties. A converted warehouse venue is the perfect gala dinner venue for those who want something a bit different. These venues offer a blank canvas that can be transformed into the perfect event space, and they're often more affordable than some of the other options on this list.

Waterfront venues

If you're looking for a truly unique gala dinner venue, then consider a waterfront venue. These venues offer stunning views of the city or water and are sure to make your event one to remember. For truly unique events, there are even boats that can be hired as gala dinner venues!

Galleries and museums

For a gala dinner with a difference, consider booking a gallery or museum as your venue. These venues offer a stunning setting for your event, and they're sure to impress your guests. Just be sure to check with the venue in advance to see if there are any restrictions on food and drink.

What are some tips for booking an awards dinner venue in Melbourne?

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you're searching for an awards dinner venue in Melbourne:

Budget

How much are you willing to spend on the venue hire? This is an important question to ask yourself before you start searching for a venue for your private events as it will help you narrow down your options.

Style

When it comes to choosing an awards dinner venue in Melbourne, considering the style of the venue is crucial. The style of the venue should align with the theme and atmosphere you want to create for your awards dinner.

Melbourne City offers a variety of event spaces to cater to different preferences and event themes. Whether you're looking for a modern event space, a waterfront event venue or a venue with a touch of historic charm, there is a venue to suit your needs.

Location

Where do you want the event to be held? Melbourne has a number of different suburbs, each with its own unique vibe. Choose a location that's convenient for your guests and easy to get to.

Capacity for events

How many people do you need to accommodate in your gala events? Make sure the venue you choose has enough space for your guests, as well as a stage or raised platform for the awards presentation. Cocktail-style events are a popular choice for awards dinners, as they allow for a more relaxed and social atmosphere. However, if you prefer a more formal seating arrangement, make sure the venue has enough tables and chairs to accommodate all of your guests comfortably.

Dates

When do you want to hold the event? Be sure to check the availability of your chosen event venues before you make a booking.

Catering

What's a great corporate event without delicious food? Does the venue have in-house catering or do you need to organise your own external catering? If you're organising your own catering, then you'll need to make sure the venue has a kitchen that can be used by your caterers.

Event Manager

Does the venue have event specialists who could assist you on the day of your event? Having an experienced event manager can help ensure that everything runs smoothly during your awards dinner. They can coordinate with the venue staff, caterers, and audio-visual technicians, making sure that all aspects of the event are well-planned and executed. An event manager can also handle any last-minute changes or issues that may arise, allowing you to focus on enjoying the evening.

Parking and Accessibility

Consider the parking facilities and accessibility of the venue. It's important to choose a venue that has ample parking space for your guests or arrange alternative transportation options if needed. Additionally, check if the venue is accessible for individuals with disabilities, including ramps or elevators for wheelchair access.

Top events venues in Melbourne

Now that you know what to look for in an awards dinner venue, it's time to start searching for the perfect one! Are you looking for a chic cocktail-style event venue? Or how about a flexible event space with magnificent views?

Check out our list of the top 8 incredible event spaces in Melbourne.

Marvel Stadium

Marvel Stadium stands as a vibrant venue, boasting breathtaking views of the city and waterfront. It plays host to more than 80 sports and entertainment events each year, encompassing major international sports competitions and concerts by globally acclaimed artists. The stadium is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, versatile event spaces, and delicious catering options, securing its position as Australia's foremost location for events spanning from Australian rules football to international music tours.

Arts Centre Melbourne

Nestled along the picturesque Yarra River on St Kilda Road, the Arts Centre Melbourne stands as a leading destination, celebrated for its remarkable architectural aesthetic, epitomized by an iconic spire. This cultural hub boasts an array of spaces, including theatres, galleries, and open-air settings, perfectly catering to events of any scale. It also serves as the esteemed residence for major performing arts organisations, such as the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Australian Ballet.

SEA LIFE Melbourne

Located in the heart of Melbourne, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium presents a distinctive mix of indoor and outdoor venues, perfectly suited for hosting up to 2,000 guests. This venue stands out not just for its dynamic exhibits and superb accessibility through public transport, but also for its remarkable five-story aquarium tank. This centrepiece adds an extraordinary touch to dining events with its vibrant lighting, showcasing breathtaking coral landscapes and a diverse collection of exotic aquatic life. Additionally, the aquarium offers interactive and educational activities, making every visit enlightening and engaging.

ALTO Event Space

ALTO Event Space is a stunning blank canvas venue situated in Melbourne's CBD, atop the iconic GPO building. With sweeping views of Parliament House, ALTO Event Space is the perfect gala dinner venue for those who want to impress their guests.

The Glasshouse

The Glasshouse is a modern and stylish venue situated in the heart of Melbourne's CBD. With its floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning city views, The Glasshouse is the perfect gala dinner venue for those who want to wow their guests.

Eureka 89

Eureka 89 is a unique venue situated atop the Eureka Tower in Melbourne's CBD. Towering 300 metres above sea level, guests can enjoy breathtaking 360° views of magical Melbourne from the MCG and Rod Laver Arena to Flinders Street Station, Federation Square, Port Phillip Bay and beyond to the Dandenong Ranges. With sweeping views of the city and bay, Eureka89 is the perfect gala dinner venue for those who want to make a statement. Eureka is available for full venue hire for your next cocktail events and corporate events.

Crown Melbourne

Crown Melbourne is a world-class casino and entertainment complex located on the banks of the Yarra River. Crown Melbourne is the perfect gala dinner venue for those who want to impress their guests with their knowledge of Melbourne's hidden gems. It has top-notch hospitality for events of all types, offering private event spaces for a variety of event styles.

Harbour Kitchen

Harbour Kitchen, nestled in the heart of Melbourne's Docklands, offers unparalleled panoramic views of the locale, presenting a versatile space perfect for both grand and intimate gatherings. With a wide range of customisable dining and drink options, this fabulous event venue provides a breathtaking panorama of Victoria Harbour and the city's skyline. Its adaptable layout and diverse spaces, including a lush garden, elegant marble bar, and inviting alfresco areas, make it the ideal choice for any occasion, from corporate events to private celebrations.

Book your events venue in Melbourne today!

Are you having a difficult time deciding on the right awards dinner venue? Fear not! VenueNow has curated a list of the best awards dinner venues in Melbourne VIC and across Australia. From chic and stylish hotels and gorgeous open-plan warehouse event venue hires to modern and unique event spaces and outdoor event spaces, we have a venue to suit your every need. Make your event extraordinary. Our experts will work with you to create a memorable event that your guests will never forget. So what are you waiting for? Browse our website and find the perfect venue for your next amazing event!