Book event venues in Melbourne
FAQ about Melbourne venues and events
What time zone does Melbourne follow?
Melbourne follows Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) during standard time, which is UTC+10:00. However, when Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins, usually from the first Sunday in October to the first Sunday in April, the clocks jump forward one hour to Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT), which is UTC+11:00.
So if you're planning an event, check whether Melbourne is on standard time or daylight saving time!
Is there anything I should know about Australian cultural norms when planning an event in Melbourne?
When planning an event in Melbourne, it's helpful to know Australians value punctuality, direct communication, and a business casual dress code. Melbourne's multiculturalism means inclusivity is important, so consider a variety of food options and respect for all backgrounds. Networking is often done over coffee or drinks, so incorporating social opportunities can be beneficial.
In addition, many locals are environmentally conscious, so sustainable practices will be appreciated. Finally, Australians value a good work-life balance, so scheduling events during normal business hours or providing ample notice for events outside of business hours will be appreciated.
What is the best way to reach Melbourne from Europe?
There are currently no direct flights to Melbourne from Europe. However, you can reach Melbourne from Europe with a single stopover, usually at major hubs such as Singapore, Doha, Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Etihad Airways offer convenient and frequent one-stop flights from various European cities to Melbourne.
What are typical business hours in Melbourne?
Typical business hours are 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday. These hours apply to most offices, including government and corporate offices. However, retail stores often have extended opening hours, especially in shopping centres, which may be open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays. On weekends, retail opening hours may vary, with many shops opening from around 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Banks generally operate from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday, with some branches open on Saturday mornings. Restaurants and cafes tend to have more varied opening hours, often opening earlier for breakfast and closing later in the evening, particularly in busy or popular areas.
Can I depend on public transport to get around?
Yes, you can absolutely rely on public transport in Melbourne! It's efficient, extensive, and generally well-maintained. The city boasts a comprehensive network, including trains, trams, and buses, making it easy to get around.
Melbourne's train network, which has 16 lines, covers the metropolitan area, while the extensive tram network, the largest in the world, serves the inner city and nearby suburbs. There is a Free Tram Zone in the CBD.
Buses are there to fill in the gaps, connecting areas not accessible by train or tram. To use public transport, you'll need a Myki card, which can be topped up with credit and used across all modes of transport.
Public transport is typically punctual and frequent, especially during peak hours, making it a dependable option for navigating the city without a car.