Best Workshop Venues Canberra for Hire

As one of the top business centres in Australia, Canberra is naturally filled with amazing event spaces, meeting rooms and workshop venues. And because it's one of Australia's favourite destinations for a leisurely getaway, it also has heaps of hotels, bars, cafes and tourist attractions that your guests will surely appreciate.

Planning a workshop in Canberra? Here's our quick guide to finding the best workshop venues in this beautiful city.

Where can I find the best workshop venue in Canberra ACT?

Start the search for your ideal workshop venue in these Canberra locations:

Canberra CBD

The Canberra Central Business District (CBD) or Civic is considered the main retail, commercial and financial region in Canberra. Canberra CBD is home to many venues that are ideal for organising workshops. There are also plenty of pubs, restaurants, cinemas and other recreational facilities that your team can visit during their free time.

One of which is the Crowne Plaza Canberra. The Crowne Plaza Canberra is a popular hotel in the CBD that offers function spaces for hire. The hotel has over 11 conference and meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 300 guests. It is close to the National Convention Centre, office buildings, shops and restaurants. Parliament House and major attractions are a short drive away, making it an ideal conference venue.

North Canberra

North Canberra is a great location for workspace venues because it's close to popular tourist destinations like the Australian War Memorial. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants for your guests to visit, so your workshops can take place in a central location.

Northbourne Avenue is one particular stretch where you'll find many fantastic event spaces for your workshop. Northbourne is a major road in North Canberra that's the site of numerous facilities like office spaces, conference centres and function rooms for seminars, workshops and similar events.

Barton

Barton is home to many federal government departments and is a great place to hold business events. There are plenty of function spaces and versatile spaces, conference rooms and boardrooms available for hire in Barton.

One particular venue that's perfect for hosting workshops is the Boat House. Minutes from the city, yet nestled in its own gardens on the lakefront, The Boat House offers the ideal location for your corporate event or private celebration. 

Narrabundah

Narrabundah is a suburb in the south-east of Canberra, close to the airport and major highways. The area is popular with businesses because it's close to the CBD and city centre but also has plenty of green space. There are also many retail outlets and restaurants nearby, making it an ideal location for workshops.

One particular venue that would be perfect for your workshop is Hotel Realm. Hotel Realm is a 5-star hotel with function spaces that can accommodate up to 400 guests. The hotel is close to the airport and has easy access to major highways, making it an ideal venue for business events.

South Canberra

You'll find plenty of function venues in the suburbs of South Canberra that are perfect for seminars, workshops, product launches, training sessions and conferences. Some of the suburbs that have venues with excellent facilities include Deakin, Barton, Kingston, Forrest and Hughes. Landmark buildings in this area are often used as venues because they're equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, air conditioning and many other amenities.

The South Canberra region also features a large number of open public spaces for tourists and residents to enjoy. There are also many shopping malls, cafes and restaurants in this area so you can ensure your guests will be comfortable during their stay.

Acton

Acton is a suburb in the inner north of Canberra, close to the CBD. The area is home to many government departments and businesses. Acton is also close to popular tourist attractions like the National Gallery of Australia and the Australian National University.

QT Canberra is a hotel in Acton that would be perfect for your workshop. The hotel has function spaces that can accommodate up to 220 guests. It is also close to many shops, restaurants and cafes, making it an ideal venue for your event.

What are the different types of function spaces in Canberra?

There's a wide range of workshop venues available in Canberra, each tailored to meet a range of event needs and preferences. Understanding the types of function spaces can help you make an informed decision when planning your event. Here’s a closer look at the different types of workshop venues available in the capital:

1. Conference Centres

Conference centres in Canberra are designed specifically for large gatherings. They come equipped with various seating configurations, breakout rooms, high-speed internet access and advanced audiovisual technology. These venues are ideal for workshops that require extensive presentations, panel discussions, or interactive sessions.

2. Hotels with Function Rooms

Many hotels in Canberra offer versatile function rooms and meeting spaces that can be tailored for workshops. These flexible event spaces often provide packages that include accommodation, meals, and event set-up, making it easier for event organisers to manage logistics. Venues like the Crowne Plaza Canberra and Mercure Canberra offer modern amenities and professional service, allowing guests to focus entirely on the event.

3. Community Halls and Centers

For a more localised and cost-effective option, community halls and centres scattered throughout Canberra can provide an intimate setting for workshops. Many of these venues are equipped with essential conference facilities, including kitchenettes and basic audio-visual equipment. These corporate event spaces are perfect for smaller gatherings or community-focused workshops and can be found in suburbs like Narrabundah and O'Connor.

4. Restaurants and Cafes

For a more relaxed and inviting atmosphere, restaurants and cafes in Canberra offer unique venues for corporate functions and social functions that can foster creativity and engagement. These venues often have private or semi-private areas that provide a cozy environment for discussions and brainstorming sessions. With the added benefit of onsite catering, participants can enjoy delicious meals or snacks without having to worry about additional arrangements. Many cafes also boast beautiful aesthetics and great ambience, which can enhance the attendees' experience and keep everyone energised throughout the day.

5. Co-working Spaces

Co-working spaces have gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. These dynamic venues are ideal for workshops focused on innovation, collaboration, and networking. Co-working spaces in Canberra provide modern environments equipped with high-speed internet, flexible layouts, and comfortable seating arrangements that can be quickly adapted to suit various workshop formats. The laid-back yet professional atmosphere of co-working spaces encourages creativity and interaction, which is crucial for successful workshops. Additionally, many of these venues offer access to amenities like whiteboards, projectors, and breakout areas for group discussions, ensuring a seamless experience for both facilitators and participants.

What should I look for in a Canberra conference venue?

When choosing a place to hold a workshop, you should first make a list of what you need out of the venue. This will make your search a lot easier. You can check out our "How to make a memorable corporate event" guide to help you. Also, consider the following things when looking for conference venues in Canberra:

Size of the group

What type of workshop are you holding? Are you planning an intimate gathering or a huge corporate meeting? As different events and activities have different space requirements, make sure the venue has the capacity to accommodate what you will need. The venue should have enough space for all the attendees and for any activity you've got planned for the workshop.

Budget

Setting a clear budget is essential when searching for workshop venues in Canberra. Your budget will not only determine the type of venue you can afford but also the additional services and amenities you can include. Check for event packages as well, as these may help you save some money. Here are some factors to consider regarding budget when selecting a venue:

1. Venue Rental Costs

Different venues come with varying rental rates depending on their location, size, and amenities. High-end hotels and conference centres may charge a premium for their facilities, while community halls or smaller venues may offer more budget-friendly options. Is there a minimum spend? Make sure to request quotes from several venues to find a space that fits within your financial plan.

2. Catering Services

If your workshop extends over mealtimes, you’ll likely need catering services. Some venues provide in-house catering, while others may allow external catering. Either way, factor catering costs into your budget. Be sure to look into options regarding dietary restrictions, menu choices, and whether you want a buffet or seated service.

3. Audio-visual Equipment

Depending on the nature of your workshop, you may require audio-visual (AV) equipment like projectors, screens, sound systems, and microphones. Many venues provide these as part of their package, but this may come at additional costs. It's important to determine your event requirements. It's also important to clarify upfront what is included in the venue hire and what will incur extra fees. Having access to modern AV equipment can significantly enhance the professional feel of your workshop, ensuring that all presentations and activities run smoothly.

Location

The venue's location is important for two reasons. First, it should be in a convenient location for all your attendees. Second, the location will affect the cost of hiring the venue. If you're holding a workshop that requires participants to travel, then you'll need to find a venue that's centrally located and easily accessible.

Flexible Space

If you're hosting a workshop, there's a good chance you'll need the function room to be flexible enough for you to break out into groups and rearrange tables and chairs.

Amenities

Besides size, look at the basic amenities you'll need such as toilets and parking. Ensure there's enough space for your group to move around, with room for breakout areas if needed. Is there natural light? Think about your food and drink requirements too. Check if the place offers packages that include catering options, decor and accommodations. Be sure to check with your guests to see if the menu can accommodate dietary requirements.

Accessibility

Look for a venue that's accessible to your guests. You need to make sure they can come to the venue easily, comfortably and in time for the event. Look for venues that are close to transport facilities within walking distance, or at least have good public transportation links.

Discover excellent workshop and conference venues Canberra ACT has on offer

Hosting a workshop can be a stressful job. Finding the right venue alone can be difficult if you don't know where to look. VenueNow is your one-stop-shop for all kinds of venue hire for all your meetings and events in Canberra ACT 2601 and beyond. Get in contact with our team of event booking experts who are here to support your venue hire needs. Send us an enquiry today and plan your memorable event now.