Top Conference Venues Sydney for Hire

Sydney is the perfect city for hosting conferences and corporate events as it has so much to offer in terms of venues, accommodation, transport links and food options. If you're planning a conference in Sydney, we've got tips on finding the perfect venue, including which Sydney areas are best for your event and what types of conference venues you can expect to find.

Where can I find conference venues in Sydney?

A conference is an excellent way to bring people together for a common purpose. It can be formal or informal and it could involve anything from presentations, networking events, workshops and seminars. If you're organising a Sydney conference, then there's no better place than the city that offers everything you need with its great food variety, international diversity and multiculturalism as well as its world-class tourist attractions.

To get you started on the hunt for your perfect Sydney conference venue, here are some Sydney neighbourhoods to consider:

Sydney CBD

The Sydney CBD is home to many of Sydney's iconic landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. This area has some of the best and most top-rated Sydney conference venues, including ones that offer panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. If you're aiming to make an impression, then the Sydney CBD is the place to hold your conference.

The Rocks and Circular Quay

An iconic Sydney area rich in history, you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants and bars as well as some great conference venues for any type of event. This is a more residential neighbourhood with excellent transport links so it's perfect if your attendees are coming from far away or just want somewhere quiet after hours. You can also stay at one of the many hotels here too so they don't have to worry about finding accommodation on their own during their trip.

Pyrmont

Close enough to walk into the central city but tucked away cosily around Darling Harbour and Iron Cove Bay, Pyrmont offers up a range of affordable options that won't disappoint. It's also close to the restaurants, cafes and bars of Darling Harbour so you can easily combine business with pleasure during your conference in Sydney.

North Sydney

Just across the Harbour Bridge from the CBD, North Sydney is a bustling hub with plenty to offer in terms of conference venues and things to do. This area has excellent transport links so it's perfect if your attendees are coming from outside of Sydney or even interstate.

The Eastern suburbs

Sydney's eastern suburbs offer a serene alternative to the busy city centre and can be accessed by train, ferry or bus. These areas are close enough to enjoy Sydney entertainment but also provide some of the best conference venues in town with their scenic views and beautiful outdoor spaces for your attendees to relax between sessions. This is an excellent choice if you don't want all that hustle and bustle during your event.

Ultimo

Close to Central Station (so excellent transport links) as well as some top-notch eateries that will make sure no one goes hungry, Ultimo is a great choice for conferences because it has everything you need all under one roof. Once morning coffee or lunch breaks are over, there's plenty more on offer too, from the nearby trendy nightclubs to high end shopping at Westfield Sydney Shopping Centre.

Paddington

For those looking for something a little different, Paddington offers an eclectic mix of historic architecture alongside cool new venues. There's also a huge range of hotels to choose from and excellent eateries in the area, as well as some great museums that can make for an enriching day trip.

Chippendale

Chippendale is an upmarket district that has recently undergone a huge transformation with lots of new developments taking place. Its dining culture also offers something for everyone — from authentic Thai restaurants to modern Australian cuisine — making it perfect for conference delegates exploring their culinary options or looking to learn more about different cultures during their visit here!

Surry Hills

Surry Hills has become one of Sydney's leading creative hubs thanks to its thriving art scene that attracts visitors from around the world. The Rocks houses some stylish warehouses converted into international hotels and venues while Woolloomooloo still retains its charming fishing village vibe with a touch of Bohemian glamour.

What are the most popular types of conference venues in Sydney?

Sydney has some of the best conference venues in all of Australia. From world-class hotel meeting rooms to massive convention centres, the conference venues Sydney has on offer will make your event one to remember. Unsure as to what type of event space you should book in Sydney? These are some of the most popular types of Sydney conference venues to consider:

Hotel event space

These are event spaces that are located in hotels and designed for conferences, meetings and other corporate functions. They often have a full range of amenities, such as high-speed WiFi, state of the art audiovisual equipment, projectors and LED screens. Hotels usually have a variety of event spaces to choose from, including meeting rooms, ballrooms, boardrooms and more. One of the best things about booking a hotel Sydney conference venue is that you get lots of natural light and sweeping views of the Sydney Harbour and the city skyline.

Museum event space

If you're looking for a space with a unique atmosphere, consider booking your conference in one of Sydney's museums. These conference spaces can be rented out by the hour and usually have air-conditioning to keep everyone comfortable during those hot summer months. These event venues also often come equipped with projectors, screens and WiFi access points.

Convention centre event space

Sydney is home to some of Australia's best convention centres — perfect if you want an upscale venue that has everything from onsite restaurants and bars to state of the art audio systems and spacious meeting rooms. Convention centres are ideal when it comes to hosting big conferences or events where multiple trade shows will take place at once because they offer such expansive square footage. They also often offer many different types of rooms, with varying capacities and layouts — perfect for any size or type of event.

Coworking space

Sydney has a number of coworking spaces, which are perfect for entrepreneurs to work in. If you're planning on hosting an event that needs lots of creative minds and big thinkers, then this is the type of venue you'll need!

Coworking spaces often have tables with laptops and other equipment ready so delegates can just plugin when they arrive. They also usually provide business-grade internet connectivity as well as free coffee.

Restaurants

Some restaurants offer event spaces and meeting rooms too. This type of conference venue is often smaller than the others on this list and may be limited in what amenities it can offer (e.g., no audiovisual equipment or no private dining room options). However, if you're after a more intimate setting with room for a small to medium-sized crowd, then a restaurant might be your best option!

What should I consider when looking for Sydney conference venues?

These are some things to keep in mind as you look through the many conference venues Sydney has on offer:

The location of the venue

The location is one of the main things you should consider when looking for a conference venue in Sydney. If attendees are travelling from outside of NSW or interstate then they will need an easy-to-find and well-connected location with good public transport links. Ask yourself:

• Is the conference venue centrally located?
• Does it have easy access to public transport?
• Is the location near a train station or bus stop to make commuting easier for guests and presenters?

You may also want a venue that is near tourist attractions like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach so that attendees can make the most of their time in the city.

The capacity of the venue

When looking for a conference venue, it's important to know how many people will be attending your event. This will help you narrow down your search to venues that can accommodate your group size.

The size of the venue

Is there enough space for your event? Can you accommodate all of your attendees or will some have to stand throughout the conference? Are there breakout rooms, adequate seating and an open-plan design with plenty of natural light? Are there adjoining areas that can be used for meetings during breaks from talks?

The facilities

Do you want catering, audiovisual equipment or other services? What is included when booking the venue? Are there any extra charges for these things on top of what's already been quoted? Is it possible to get something cheaper by renting only part of the space instead of all of it?

The catering

In terms of catering services in a Sydney conference location, are they flexible when it comes to dietary requirements like vegetarianism or veganism? Do you need gluten-free food options available too? What about food options for people who suffer from allergies such as nuts or dairy products?

Accessibility

Is the conference venue wheelchair accessible? Will people with visual impairments find it hard to navigate the space? What types of facilities are available for wheelchair users? Are live captioning services provided during talks to assist those who have hearing impairments?

Other things to consider

- Do you want the conference venue in a suburb or in the city centre?

- What is your budget and what facilities are available at different price points?

- Is there parking for visitors close by, or will people need public transport to get from their cars to the venue's entrance?

- Will food be catered during breaks between sessions so attendees don’t have to leave the building and miss part of what's happening on stage while they go off in search of sustenance?

Where should I hold my next conference in Sydney?

If you're looking for function rooms in Sydney for your next conference, then these are some great options to consider:

Waterview Bicentennial Park

Located in Sydney Olympic Park, Waterview Bicentennial Park combines contemporary elegance with tranquil views of the park and lake, presenting various spaces perfect for events from cozy gatherings to grand celebrations with up to 1500 guests. The venue features high ceilings, an expansive wrap-around terrace, and abundant natural light, all set against a stunning parkland backdrop. This makes it the perfect choice for conferences, weddings, corporate events, and special occasions, offering customisable packages to meet a wide range of needs.

Dockside

Dockside, Darling Harbour's premium event venue in Sydney, stands out for its exceptional culinary creations and a flexible space perfect for various events, including weddings and corporate gatherings, with a capacity of up to 1200 guests. This venue boasts five versatile rooms equipped with natural light and blackout capabilities, an inviting outdoor balcony for social events, and has recently been extensively renovated to boost its charm and functionality.

Doltone House Darling Island

Doltone House Darling Island Wharf, located in Sydney, is a 6-star 'Green Star' accredited venue that masterfully blends contemporary design with a deep commitment to environmental sustainability. It offers versatile event spaces with breathtaking views of the iconic Sydney Harbour. Perfectly situated in Sydney's CBD, it stands as an ideal venue for large-scale events such as weddings. The venue features elegant meeting rooms and a main event space capable of hosting up to 800 guests.

Sydney Masonic Centre

Sydney Masonic Centre stands as a quintessential illustration of Brutalist architecture, masterfully designed by Joseland Gilling. It boasts 13 multifunctional event spaces, each outfitted with cutting-edge audiovisual equipment and fibre optic internet. The venue also offers customized catering options, crafted by a dedicated in-house chef. Situated in the heart of Sydney's vibrant CBD, this premier venue ensures convenient access to public transportation, quality accommodations, and leading tourist attractions. Its strategic location and superior facilities make it an ideal choice for a wide array of prestigious events and gatherings.

The Eveleigh by The Grounds

Opened in 2022, The Eveleigh has quickly become a top destination for corporate events and conferences in Sydney, located within the historic South Eveleigh precinct. It boasts amenities such as high ceilings, a private bar, and advanced sound systems, making it stand out as a premier venue. Additionally, The Roastery, a novel dining space in the same precinct, takes coffee culture to new heights. It merges art and innovation in a space dedicated to dining, creativity, and connection. This unique establishment also functions as a wholesale coffee roastery, offering a comprehensive view of the coffee-making process.

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, nestled in Sydney's CBD, is a five-star sanctuary offering unparalleled conference amenities. With cutting-edge audio/visual technology and diverse event spaces, it stands as the quintessential venue for corporate gatherings and lavish celebrations. The hotel boasts 436 opulent rooms and suites, serving a contemporary French-inspired cuisine, an extensive selection of fine wines, and versatile catering services. All of these luxuries are conveniently located within a stone's throw of Sydney's premier attractions.

Discover the excellent conference venues Sydney NSW has to offer

If you want to make the most of your Sydney conference, it's important to find a venue that ticks all the boxes. Sydney has plenty of choices so be sure to do your research before making a decision! At VenueNow, we make it ridiculously easy for you to find and book your perfect Sydney conference venue. Try it today!