Best Networking Event Venues Canberra for Hire

The success of a networking event depends significantly on the venue one chooses since it sets the tone and facilitates meaningful interactions, and Canberra is a great venue for such events. This in-depth guide will touch on various venues one can choose in Canberra, essential considerations to make when picking a venue, and some tips on how to make your networking event an unforgettable one.

Best Venue Types for Canberra Networking Events

Planning a networking event in the capital city of Australia? Here are some of the most popular types of venues ideal for hosting networking events in Canberra:

Conference Centres

Conference centres are the first choice venue for hosting professional networking events due to their flexibility and capacity to accommodate large groups. The venues have modern facilities catering to all your technology requirements, from audiovisual equipment to high-speed internet. Various venues in conference centres can host events of varying sizes, from small breakout rooms for small groups to large halls for large groups. This flexibility makes conference centres an ideal option.

Hotels

Hotels are an excellent choice for networking events. Many hotels in Canberra provide dedicated event spaces, ranging from intimate meeting rooms to expansive ballrooms, suitable for any networking occasion. These venues often have state-of-the-art technology, including sound systems, projectors, and high-speed internet, ensuring your event runs smoothly. Plus, on-site accommodation lets out-of-town guests easily transition from attending the networking event to relaxing in their rooms.

Pubs and Bars

Canberra pubs and bars are suitable for informal networking events or social mixers. The establishments are typically accompanied by versatile spaces that can be converted to host any event, from a private space to an open setup. Most of these establishments offer packages that allow the exclusive use of some rooms, carefully chosen drink menus, and catering facilities that include local specialties. For instance, rooftop bars offer stunning cityscape views, making the venue picturesque enough for night events. In addition, music and entertainment can also be introduced to make the event memorable to all guests.

Restaurants

Canberra features several restaurants with private or semi-private dining areas ideal for small to medium-sized gatherings. Most restaurants have customisable menus that can be adapted for your event, and your guests will love local and international cuisine options catering to most dietary requirements. Also, having your networking event at a restaurant minimises logistical issues since food and service are all provided in the same venue.

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Catering Options for Networking Events

Food is an integral part of any networking event. Catering can range from simple snacks to elaborate multi-course meals, depending on the nature and timing of your event. Here are some popular catering options to consider:

Finger Foods and Canapés

Finger foods and canapés are excellent choices for casual networking events or cocktail-style gatherings and are convenient for guests to enjoy while standing and mingling. Consider a mix of hot and cold options, incorporating local flavours and ingredients to give your event a unique touch. Popular choices might include mini beef pies, smoked salmon blinis, or vegetarian spring rolls, ensuring there's something for every palate.

Buffet-Style Meals

Buffet-style catering can be an optimal choice for events with a more relaxed atmosphere. It provides various options that can easily cater to diverse dietary needs. Buffets allow guests to serve themselves, encouraging movement and interaction, which is ideal for networking purposes. Be sure to include a balance of proteins, carbs, vegetables, and some desserts to satisfy all your guests' preferences.

Plated Dinners

A plated dinner might be perfect for hosting a formal networking event. Plated dinners are typically more structured, with multiple courses that can be served to guests at their tables. Plated dinners allow guests to engage in conversations during each course. This dining style often includes entrée, main course, and dessert options.

Grazing Tables

Grazing tables have become increasingly popular at networking events due to their visually appealing and interactive nature. They are a fantastic option for both informal and formal events. A well-designed grazing table can include a mix of cheeses, charcuterie, fresh fruits, nuts, artisan breads, dips, and various accompaniments.

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Beverage Options: Open Bar vs. Set Drink Menus

When organising the drink service for your networking party, you have several options, each with advantages and considerations. The best option will be based primarily on your party's theme, budget, and the tastes of your guests.

Open Bar

An open bar is a highly sought-after option for most hosts, providing guests with various drink choices ranging from wines to liquors to cocktails and soft drinks. It is a welcoming setting that fosters socialising, as guests tend to congregate at the bar, making it the focal point of interaction. Friendly, well-versed bartenders can add value by making recommendations based on individual tastes. But an open bar can be costly, so it's important to weigh your budget and prepare well to avoid mounting bills.

Set Drink Menus

Alternatively, drink set menus can be a more controlled and less expensive solution. With a set menu, you have a prearranged choice of drinks, a selection of curated wines, beers, and perhaps a couple of themed cocktails. This solution not only serves to control costs but also enables a more coordinated and branded experience, especially if you use locally sourced or themed drinks. It also minimises waiting times for drinks at the bar by streamlining the orders, enabling people to receive their drinks quickly.

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Typical Networking Event Venue Costs in Canberra

Knowing the average cost of venues can be very helpful in budgeting for a networking event in Canberra. Venue costs range on average from AUD 55 to AUD 85 per head, though this can differ depending on several factors, such as venue size, location, and services provided.

For instance, venues in the busy centre of Canberra, like the Civic or Braddon neighbourhoods, could command a premium for being in the centre and having amenities and transport hubs nearby. Conversely, venues in the outer suburbs or more distant areas of Canberra may offer less expensive options. It's also possible to consider the day and time of booking a hall. Bookings during evenings or weekends could be a premium price compared to daytime or weekday bookings. Special events such as holidays can also impact pricing, with some venues offering promotional pricing during off-peak times.

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Book Your Ideal Canberra Networking Venue Today!

With VenueNow, you can book the ideal Canberra networking venue. VenueNow is a simple online venue finder that connects you to a variety of venues so you can easily discover the perfect corporate event venues for your networking event.

So, why wait? Start exploring the diverse range of options available today!

How much do Canberra networking event venues cost?

Based on VenueNow's historic data, on average, Canberra networking event venues cost between 50 per person and 75 per person. For example, a 100 person networking event would cost approximately 5000-7500. Costs may differ based on your food and beverage requirements, AV requirements, event date and time and the type of venue you decide to book.

What are the top Canberra networking event venues?

Here are some of our favourite Canberra networking event venues:

1. QT Canberra
2. Crowne Plaza Canberra
3. Mercure Canberra
4. Kingpin Canberra
5. Rydges Canberra
6. Midnight Hotel Canberra
7. Shine Dome
8. East Hotel Canberra
9. Mantra MacArthur Canberra
10. Cliftons Canberra
11. Verity Lane Market
12. Peppers Gallery Hotel

How do I find and book Canberra networking event venues?

Finding and booking a Canberra networking event venue is easy with VenueNow, simply follow these steps:1. Enter Canberra as your location and networking event as your event type into VenueNow's search engine.2. Narrow down your search results by entering more filters such as number of people, event date, room layout and budget.3. Send enquiries to venues to request pricing and availability (we recommend sending 3-5 enquiries to different venues to ensure you get the best price).4. Review your quotes and connect directly with your favourite venues to book a site visit and finalise your booking.5. Host your event!

How far in advance should I book a Canberra networking event venue?

On average, VenueNow customers book a Canberra venue 90 days in advance of the event. For larger events and event dates in December we recommend allowing additional time as there may be limited availability.

Can VenueNow help me find a Canberra networking event venue?

We sure can! VenueNow's team of Venue Booking Experts can help you find the perfect venue, collect quotes from multiple venues on your behalf, negotiate the best price with venues and book venues, all for free. Simply send us your event brief and our team will be in contact with venue recommendations within 24-48 hours.