Best Networking Event Venues Melbourne for Hire

Companies conduct and attend networking events to establish connections and form relationships within the industry. These events are also the perfect opportunity to introduce your brand and products to potential customers. In other words, this type of corporate event is necessary to help your organisation grow and create more business opportunities.

If you're the anointed one who's responsible for planning a networking event, there are several things you need to consider, one of which is to book the perfect networking event venue in Melbourne. Leave a lasting impression and make sure your event is a success by choosing the right venue.

To help you in your search, we have compiled a guide to the best networking event venues in Melbourne. Check out our Melbourne Networking Event Venue Guide below for all the top tips for corporate venue hire!

Where are the best networking event venues in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a city that boasts a large variety of event venues for business and corporate gatherings such as meetings, workshops, gala dinners and networking sessions. Melbourne venues are scattered all around the CBD and suburbs, so it's important to consider the location of your event when choosing a venue.

To find the perfect venue for your networking event, start by thinking about your ideal location. Check out some of the Melbourne suburbs and neighbourhoods where you can find the best event venues for networking functions.

Melbourne CBD

Melbourne's CBD is an easy choice for networking events. As the Melbourne corporate hub, it's the perfect spot to launch a new product or grow your connections.

The Melbourne CBD is filled with different event venue options that can be utilised for corporate events. This prime location offers convenience and accessibility. With a wide range of event spaces for many types of events, you'll surely find a corporate venue at this central location that's ideal for your networking event.

Docklands

If you're looking for a function venue that's near the city and still spacious, book a function room in the Docklands. This business district is perfect for gatherings held late at night due to its proximity to entertainment areas. Your corporate event space needs will be met with the exceptional venues in Docklands.

South Melbourne

This is one of the most convenient locations for networking events as it's only a stone's throw away from the Melbourne CBD. The best thing about this location is that there are many corporate function venues here that can accommodate a large crowd. South Melbourne offers a diverse range of elegant event spaces that can cater to various needs and preferences.

St Kilda

If you're looking for a more relaxed networking event, then St Kilda should be your go-to spot. This beachside suburb is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of work.

Toast your business success at one of these top corporate bars in Melbourne or hire a private dining room at a fancy restaurant. No matter what your networking event budget is, you'll surely find a venue that's perfect for your needs in St Kilda.

Richmond

This is another spot that's perfect for after-work drinks or a casual networking session. If you're looking to treat your guests to a meal, then there are plenty of great restaurants in Richmond that offer private dining rooms.

Carlton

This inner-city suburb of Melbourne VIC, known as "Little Italy," is popular with students, professionals and people who are young at heart. This is a good spot for your networking event if you wish to establish connections with young professionals. Carlton is perfect for social events and networking gatherings due to its vibrant atmosphere, diverse venues, and easy accessibility.

South Yarra

South Yarra is another area that's popular with the younger crowd. This is perfect for those who wish to mingle with young professionals and entrepreneurs.

South Yarra is brimming with cafes, fashion boutiques, salons and bars that are popular among young adults. If you want to establish connections within this demographic, South Yarra is an ideal place for your networking event.

Southbank

Business and entertainment areas can be found in Southbank overlooking the Yarra River. This is another great choice for those who wish to enjoy their networking event whilst mingling with people from all walks of life.

Prahran

Book an event space in Prahran if you want to establish connections with people of different age groups and meet professionals from various fields. This locality also has stylish lodging and restaurants, so there's always an event taking place somewhere.

Port Melbourne

Port Melbourne is a fantastic choice for hosting private events. This vibrant suburb offers a mix of industrial charm and stunning waterfront views, making it an attractive destination for professionals looking to network in a unique setting. Function spaces in Port Melbourne are known for their versatility and ability to cater to a wide range of networking events.

What type of Melbourne event space is suitable for a corporate event?

Many companies opt for networking events at venues that are both stylish and affordable. The ideal venue will depend on the type of networking event that's being held. These are some of the most popular corporate event venues in Melbourne VIC:

Hotel function room

Hotels have almost everything you need to host a networking event or any type of social gathering. They have in-house catering, lodging for guests, parking, modern conference rooms, bars, restaurants and other amenities. Most hotels offer discounts if you book their function venue. With impeccable service, catering options and a professional atmosphere, hotel function rooms are popular choices for networking events in Melbourne.

Bar or lounge

You can find a bar, lounge or similar event space that is perfect for networking in Melbourne. There are bars in different areas of the city that offer various services, including drinks packages and food platters. Many bars, lounges, pubs and bistros have private dining rooms or function venues that you can book for your networking event.

Restaurant and Cafe event space

If you're planning a networking event with a laidback vibe, consider hosting it at a cafe or restaurant. There are many cafes and restaurants in Melbourne that offer comfortable spaces for hosting events. The restaurant scene in Melbourne is diverse and vibrant, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. There are also cafes and restaurants that stay open until late at night, which is ideal if you want your guests to attend an after-party. Your culinary experience will surely leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Waterfront venues

There are plenty of stunning waterfront venues with modern facilities in Melbourne that would be perfect for a networking event. These venues offer breathtaking views of the city skyline and provide a unique setting for your event.

Private dining room

Many Melbourne restaurants have private dining rooms that you can book for your networking event. There are many restaurants with upscale settings in Melbourne CBD and these spaces provide good lighting, comfortable seating and other amenities such as Wi-Fi access.

Most restaurants offer event packages that include food and drinks. You may also want to create your own menu with the help of the restaurant's catering services.

Converted warehouse or industrial space

For large groups, a converted warehouse or studio is a popular corporate event venue. This amazing venue type is typically spacious and flooded with natural light. A minimalist event space like this is also perfect for events that need to be highly customised, such as a themed networking event and other corporate functions.

Blank canvas space

If you're looking for a flexible event space that allows you to tailor the atmosphere and design according to your networking event theme and event requirements, a blank canvas space is the perfect choice. These versatile spaces provide a blank slate for you to unleash your creativity and transform the space into a networking haven. Additionally, these versatile event spaces often come equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and lighting options, allowing you to create a dynamic and immersive networking experience.

Other unique venues

There are many other unique venues that you can consider for your networking event in Melbourne. Consider these conference venues for unique corporate events: art galleries, museums, zoos, botanical gardens and more.

What are some good Melbourne networking event ideas?

Networking events can be something simple and casual like a trip to your favourite pub. Or it can be something grand like a seminar or a trade show. There are other factors that'll help you decide what kind of networking event you want to have but for now, here are some ideas:

Product Launch

If you're looking for a venue to host your product launch, Melbourne has plenty of options. You can find stylish and affordable venues in different parts of the city from the city centre to the suburbs. Waterfront venues, converted warehouses and private dining rooms are all popular choices for product launches.

Lunch or dinner meetings

Food is a powerful tool for forging connections. If you get your business associates together for a meal, you create a wonderful opportunity for networking and business talk. It's like having chitchats at home over dinner.

Check out these private dining venues in Melbourne.

Seminars or conferences

If you want to establish a relationship with other business professionals, consider hosting a seminar or conference. Although it'll require effort and resources to hold such an event, your guests will get the chance to broaden their knowledge about different topics. It's also possible that you'll find potential business partners at these get-togethers.

Check out these conference venues in Melbourne.

Cocktail function

Cocktail parties are great for networking because they're more relaxed and informal. This type of event is perfect if you want to introduce your business to a wider group of people. Cocktail parties also allow you to mingle and chat with other guests in a fun and festive atmosphere.

Check out these cocktail party venues in Melbourne.

Trade shows and expos

Networking can be done anywhere, not just at bars and restaurants. For example, there are trade shows and expos for specific types of businesses such as automotive, medical field, legal services, etc. If you belong to a certain industry, consider asking management if you can host an event on one of these trade shows or expos to attract more business.

At trade shows and expos, you'll also be able to meet different kinds of people and learn more about what they do in the industry. It's also another good way to find potential business partners.

Check out these trade show venues in Melbourne.

Other industry events

Networking doesn't just happen at business-related functions. You can also form connections with other professionals in different fields through community service groups, career fairs, workshops, roundtable discussions, and speaker series. With these events, you'll be able to form relationships that will help build your own network.

Tips for planning networking events in Melbourne

When it comes to planning networking events in Melbourne, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure its success:

Define your goals

Before starting the planning process, clearly define your objectives for the networking event. Are you trying to connect professionals from a specific industry? Are you aiming to promote your business or a new product? Having a clear goal in mind will help you make decisions throughout the planning process.

Choose the right venue

Selecting the right venue is crucial for a successful networking event. Consider the size of the space, its accessibility, and the amenities it offers. Melbourne offers a wide range of event venues, from traditional conference centres to unique and modern spaces. Choose a venue that aligns with the atmosphere you want to create and suits the needs of your guests.

Create an inviting atmosphere

Networking events should foster a relaxed and enjoyable environment where attendees feel comfortable engaging with one another. Pay attention to the decor, lighting, and layout of the venue to create a welcoming ambience. Provide ample seating areas, designated networking zones, and interactive elements to encourage conversation and interaction.

Check for the facilities and services

For a seamless experience, make sure to check the facilities and services provided by the venue. This includes amenities such as state-of-the-art technology, audiovisual equipment, high-speed internet access, and professional event staff. Your private party is a time for networking and connecting with other professionals, so it's essential that the venue can accommodate your needs.

Your one-stop-shop for venue hire in Melbourne

At VenueNow, you're sure to find event spaces or function rooms in Melbourne for your next event. VenueNow is Australia's largest collection of meeting and event venues for hire from an area of a venue to an entire venue. Search and book your perfect venue by event type with just a few clicks. Speak to our team of event booking experts today and start planning your unforgettable event!