Top 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.

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. 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.

Southbank

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.

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.

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.

Richmond

Richmond is another great inner-city suburb with a number of excellent gala dinner venues. 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.

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. 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.

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.

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

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. 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.

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

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.

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 its own catering or do you need to organise your own? 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.

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! Check out our list of the top 10 gala dinner venues 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 exceptional catering services, 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 theaters, 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 centerpiece 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. 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.

Metropolis Events

Metropolis Events is a modern and stylish venue located within Melbourne’s Arts Precinct. It is a sophisticated and flexible events venue suitable for meetings and conferences, gala dinners, private celebrations, intimate ceremonies and lavish wedding receptions. With its sleek and contemporary design, Metropolis Events is the perfect gala dinner venue for those who want to make a statement.

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.

Harbour Kitchen

Harbour Kitchen, nestled in the heart of Melbourne's Docklands, offers unparalleled 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 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 and across Australia. From chic and stylish hotels to modern and unique event spaces, we have a venue to suit your every need. 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 event!