Conference Venues Sydney: The Top Choices for 2020
Skift Take
Don’t underestimate the city of big beaches, tanned bodies, and espresso martinis; when it comes to business, Sydney knows when to replace the surfboards with a corporate plan. Australia’s largest city is home to some of the country’s most innovative and forward-thinking venues, along with a selection of boutique venues that highlight the country’s laid-back ideology. For your event in 2020, look no further than these top Sydney CBD conference venues.
1. The Best Business Conference Venues Sydney (Not CBD)
2. The Best Cheap Conference Venues Sydney
3. The Best Conference Venues Sydney CBD (Central Business District)
4. The Best Conference Venues With Accommodation Sydney – Outside of the CBD
5. The Best Party Venue Hire Sydney
6. The Best Small Conference Venues Sydney
7. The Best Sydney CBD Hotels With Conference Facilities
8. The Best Sydney Conference Venues Packages – Best Value Packages
9. The Best Warehouse Venues Sydney
10. The Most Unique Conference Venues NSW
The Best Business Conference Venues Sydney (Not CBD)
Pier One Sydney Harbour
WHY IS IT COOL? Built on the waterfront near the Harbour Bridge and renovated in 2019, Pier One Sydney Harbour is a modern, stylish venue with a beachy vibe. The hotel’s meeting rooms have views of Sydney Harbour and the Harbour bridge, and it’s just a short, scenic walk to the Central Business District (CBD).
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, cocktail parties, galas, banquets, retreats, board meetings
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 10,249 square feet of meeting space across 9 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Pier One Sydney Harbor Hotel is committed to the promotion of environmental awareness with guests, meeting planners, and staff.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Valet, street parking
Pullman Sydney Airport Hotel
WHY IS IT COOL? The Pullman Sydney Airport Hotel is the only 5-star hotel convenient to Sydney airport. It features modern design and offers full service conference facilities. The function rooms at the Pullman Sydney Airport Hotel have an open layout, with smart technology integrated throughout.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Small conferences, meetings, cocktail parties, galas, banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 3,703 square feet of event space across 5 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house AV, integrated smart technology throughout the hotel
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
The Branksome Hotel & Residences
WHY IS IT COOL? Built in 2017, The Branksome Hotel & Residences is a luxury hotel located near Sydney Airport. Designed to feel like a home away from home, the hotel features suite rooms, including some that come with a study. In addition to its full service meeting facilities, the Branksome also offers a rooftop terrace event space.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, cocktail parties, galas, banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 3,057 square feet of event space across 4 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
The Best Cheap Conference Venues Sydney
The Sydney Boulevard Hotel
WHY IS IT COOL? The Sydney Boulevard Hotel is a 4-star property that was renovated in 2016. It offers a pillarless grand ballroom, budget-friendly room rental fees and daily delegate rates.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, cocktail parties, galas, banquets, retreats
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 20,451 square feet of event space across 11 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Sydney Conference and Training Centre
WHY IS IT COOL? Located just north of the CBD, the Sydney Conference and Training Centre is a great option for meeting planners on a budget. The Sydney Conference and Training Centre’s meeting and events rooms feature a flexible layout, and the venue also offers a swimming pool, lounge with billiards, and tennis court for break times.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, cocktail parties, galas, banquets, retreats
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 5,027 square feet of event space across 15 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: On-site parking
The Fullerton Hotel
WHY IS IT COOL? Housed in a historic post office building, the Fullerton Hotel offers interesting architecture and modern amenities at a reasonable price point. The Heritage Ballroom features interesting architectural elements, including a curved ceiling and circular windows. The Barnet room has beamed ceilings and skylights.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, cocktail parties, galas, banquets, retreats
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 41,140 square feet of event space across 15 meeting rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Fullerton Hotel is on track to meet sustainability goals for 2020, including removing plastic water bottles, replacing single use plastics with biodegradable options, and increasing recycling.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Best Conference Venues Sydney CBD (Central Business District)
ICC Sydney
WHY IS IT COOL? ICC Sydney is a convention centre constructed in 2016 that comprises 3 buildings: ICC Convention Centre, ICC Exhibition Centre, and ICC Sydney Theatre. ICC Sydney boasts bold, innovative architecture, convenient access to Sydney, and full conference and convention facilities.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conventions, conferences, large galas, large banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 403,711 square feet of event space across 70 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: Sustainability is a key strategic priority for ICC Sydney. The facility is set to become LEED Gold certified and is driving toward saving 20% more greenhouse gas emissions than mandated by Australia’s building code. ICC is also looking to conserve water and energy by using solar water heating in its kitchens and reducing potable water usage by 14%.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Best Conference Venues With Accommodation Sydney – Outside of the CBD
The InterContinental Sydney Double Bay
WHY IS IT COOL? The InterContinental Sydney Double Bay is a posh 5-star hotel with easy access to the beach and waterfront. This light-filled hotel offers a rooftop pool and bar and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and bars in the village of Double Bay.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, cocktail parties, galas, banquets, retreats
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 8,611 square feet of event space across 12 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The InterContinental Sydney Double Bay practices sustainability through environmentally responsible sourcing of local ingredients.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Novotel Sydney International Airport
WHY IS IT COOL? Recently renovated in 2019, the Novotel Sydney International Airport is a stylish 4-star hotel with conference facilities just minutes from the Sydney International Airport. The Novotel Sydney Airport offers flexible meeting space and features a 1920’s Art Deco themed bar and a view of Cahill Parklands and Kogarah Golf Course.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, cocktail parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 12,411 square feet of event space across 11 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: On-site parking
The Best Party Venue Hire Sydney
Beta Bar & Gallery
WHY IS IT COOL? Beta Bar & Gallery is an expansive venue with exposed brick, large curved windows, and reclaimed materials. You can upgrade your event by taking advantage of one of Beta Bar & Gallery’s experiential packages.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, banquets, cocktail receptions, parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 200 reception style and 160 seated banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV and technology coordinated through Beta Bar & Gallery
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, garage and street parking
The Crescent Garden at Darling Park
WHY IS IT COOL? The Crescent Garden at Darling Park offers event planners versatile indoor/outdoor space options with a lush garden laid out in a geometrical pattern. The indoor pavilion features a rotunda and large glass windows.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, banquets, cocktail receptions, parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 32,313 square feet of event space across 3 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: In-house
Studio Sydney Tower
WHY IS IT COOL? Situated above CBD Studio, the private dining room at the top of Studio Sydney Tower offers contemporary design, floor to ceiling windows, and amazing views of Sydney.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, galas, banquets, cocktail receptions, parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 200
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Calyx
WHY IS IT COOL? The Calyx is the home of the Royal Botanic Society and offers several event venues throughout this botanical garden, including lawns, gardens, a rockery, a lodge, conservatories, and tented spaces.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, galas, banquets, cocktail receptions, parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate very large groups in tented spaces on the lawns and gardens and smaller groups in the indoor spaces
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: The Calyx practices sustainability by offering native habitat and providing sustainable living education.
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
Urban Winery Sydney
WHY IS IT COOL? The barrel room at Urban Winery Sydney is a multi-functional space that is light, bright, and customizable. Urban Winery Sydney is the home of A.Retief wines and is located in the Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail receptions, team celebrations, client events, banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 250 reception style and 180 seated banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: Urban Winery Sydney practices sustainability by sourcing local and environmentally friendly ingredients.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation and garage parking
The Best Small Conference Venues Sydney
The West Hotel
WHY IS IT COOL? Built as part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, the West Hotel is high on design and suitable for planners looking for a smaller, stylish meeting or event venue. The West Hotel offers intimate meeting space and a lush, landscaped atrium.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail parties, team celebrations, client events, meetings, board meetings
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 50 in the Telopea Meeting Room and 90 in the Solander Dining and Bar space
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Bluetooth speakers in each guest room, WiFi throughout
SUSTAINABILITY: The West practices sustainability by sourcing local and environmentally friendly ingredients.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
Spicers Potts Point
WHY IS IT COOL? Spicers Potts Point is a small luxury boutique hotel located on the tree-lined Victoria Street in a historic home. The quiet atmosphere makes it perfect for meetings or retreats.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, board meetings, small retreats
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 258 square feet of event space
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: Spicers Potts Point practices sustainability by sourcing local produce, composting on-site, and energy efficient systems.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Mint
WHY IS IT COOL? The Mint has a storied history. It was originally constructed as a hospital and financed by the sale of 45,000 barrels of rum. Its historic exterior is contrasted with a sleek, modern interior.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, small conferences, cocktail parties, client events, banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate up to 200 banquet style with a full buyout
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY:
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, garage parking
The Best Sydney CBD Hotels With Conference Facilities
The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
WHY IS IT COOL? The Four Seasons Sydney offers fantastic views of Sydney Harbour and convenient access to attractions and shopping. The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney was renovated in 2019 and offers stylish ballrooms and meeting rooms, some with a pillarless design.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, galas, banquets, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 18,029 square feet of event space across 11 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney practices sustainability in part through its green meetings program.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, valet and garage parking
Hyatt Regency Sydney
WHY IS IT COOL? The Hyatt Regency Sydney is a new 5-star conference hotel with marina and harbour views. The Hyatt Regency Sydney is one of the city’s largest premium hotels with almost 900 sleeping rooms as well as ballroom and meeting room spaces.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, galas, banquets, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 27,330 square feet of event space across 21 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: As part of Hyatt hotels, the Hyatt Regency Sydney is committed to reducing its energy and water consumption, reducing emissions, and sourcing sustainable products in its supply chain.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, valet and garage parking
The Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
WHY IS IT COOL? The Shangri-La Sydney is a luxury hotel with prime views of Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House. It offers extensive, stylish meeting space equipped with state of the art meeting technology.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, galas, banquets, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 32,292 square feet of event space across 19 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Shangri-La Hotel Sydney practices sustainability by offering guests wooden key cards and pitchers of water, rather than plastic bottles.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, valet and street parking
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
WHY IS IT COOL? Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is a chic 5-star hotel that sits in the heart of the CBD. Renovated in 2019, the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth offers spacious meeting rooms with modern décor and cutting-edge AV.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, galas, banquets, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 23,035 square feet of event space across 11 meeting rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Modern AV
SUSTAINABILITY: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is part of the Sustainable Event Alliance.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Hilton Sydney
WHY IS IT COOL? The recently renovated Hilton Sydney offers modern architecture, expansive city views from its massive windows, and a prime location in the heart of the CBD.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, banquets,
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 33,368 square feet of event space across 32 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Hilton Sydney participates in Hilton’s LightStay sustainability program, which includes switching to LED lighting, installing light sensors, and installing dual flush toilets.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Best Sydney Conference Venues Packages – Best Value Packages
Four Points by Sheraton Sydney, Central Park
WHY IS IT COOL? The recently constructed Four Points by Sheraton Sydney, Central Park is a modern conference venue, with state of the art AV and WiFi access. The hotel is set in a prime location, convenient to Central Park, Darling Harbour, shopping, and restaurants.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, small conferences
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 5,931 square feet of event space across 7 function spaces
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Four Points by Sheraton was constructed using eco-conscious building materials and integrates sustainable technologies and systems.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
Novotel Sydney Central
WHY IS IT COOL? Located within walking distance of Darling Harbor, Novotel Sydney Central is a 4-star property that offers modern conference and meeting facilities with budget-friendly daily delegate rates.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, lectures,
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 7,750 square feet of event space across 12 event spaces.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: Novotel Sydney Central participates in Novotel’s Planet 21 sustainability program.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, on-site parking
The Best Warehouse Venues Sydney
Carriageworks
WHY IS IT COOL? The Carriageworks was originally constructed as part of the Everleigh Railway Works, and now serves as a very large warehouse event venue and multi-functional arts centre. Its bays and studios can be combined or divided up to create the perfect size space for your event. The open floor plan, tall ceilings, and white walls also provide a blank slate to create your perfect event.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, large meetings, conventions, trade shows, galas, banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate groups 30-1,500
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation
Morso Events
WHY IS IT COOL? Morso Events is a warehouse, loft-style venue located on Sydney Harbour that features wood floors and an ornate chandelier.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail parties, team celebrations, client events
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 60 seated banquet style and 130 reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Limited in-house AV
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Garage parking
Muse
WHY IS IT COOL? Muse is a sophisticated industrial-style coworking and event space located in Sydney’s Surry Hills neighborhood. Muse’s warehouse space features a beautiful built-in bar, exposed brick and hardwood floors. Event spaces include a courtyard, rooftop, and the main Thimble Room.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail parties, banquets, galas, exhibitions, product launches, brand activations
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 180 with a full buyout
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, garage parking
The Most Unique Conference Venues NSW
Folonomo
WHY IS IT COOL? Located in a former store front, Folonomo is a non-profit event facility with an industrial vibe – think exposed brick, beams, and steel finishes. Folonomo launched in February 2019 and offers several spaces to accommodate both small and large groups. Folonomo is part of the Pure Collective of restaurants and event venues, which pursue a social mission to give 100% of its profits to charity.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail parties, team celebrations, banquets, client events, meetings
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate groups 10-100
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: Folonomo practices sustainability donating profits to charities that plant trees to offset carbon emissions.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation
Sydney Opera House
WHY IS IT COOL? The Sydney Opera House is the most iconic and recognizable landmark on the Sydney skyline. The Sydney Opera House offers its famed Concert Hall and 7 other function rooms for private events.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, cocktail receptions, parties, lectures
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 22,873 square feet of event space across 7 function rooms (not including the Concert Hall)
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Sydney Opera House aims to be a leader in sustainability, and uses environmentally friendly building systems like seawater cooling.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: A ten-minute walk to public transportation, on-site parking
The Studio
WHY IS IT COOL? The Studio is a creative and tech start-up incubator that offers not only event space, but also a video studio, production services, and more. Located in the heart of the CBD, the Studio is non-profit focused on “fostering and supporting Australian media-tech and creative tech-startups.”
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, filming, tech events
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 80 attendees reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: State of the art AV in-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to public transportation, garage parking