Sponsored by Melbourne Park
Jaymie Hooper
Long after the stadium floodlights switch off, the true scale of Melbourne Park comes into view. Spanning 40 hectares along the Yarra River, the multi-venue precinct is home to some of the world’s biggest events, including the Australian Open, and acts as the city’s economic engine, driving millions of visitors into nearby dining rooms, bars and hotels.
“There are few live event destinations in the world as well-connected to the heart of a city as Melbourne Park,” says chief executive officer John Harnden. “That’s paired with world-class infrastructure, meaning we can attract the world’s best events, any night of the week.”
Whether guests are enjoying one of Australia’s most spectacular acoustic experiences at Rod Laver Arena or cheering on their favourite sporting team at AAMI Park, visitors can head straight from the event to easily experience the best Melbourne has to offer.
“We’re right on the doorstep of one of the world’s greatest cities for food, bars and hospitality, so an event at Melbourne Park becomes part of a night out in Melbourne,” Harnden says.
“People come in early, have dinner or a drink and stay out afterwards,” he adds. “When thousands of people make that part of their Melbourne Park experience, the impact travels well beyond the precinct.”
In nearby Richmond, for example, event nights lead to increased bookings and foot traffic at New Quarter, a neo-Vietnamese restaurant led by the Commune Group.
“On a major event night, there’s a noticeable lift in energy across Richmond, with guests coming in for an early dinner before heading to a show or game,” says Rob Gringlas, managing director of Commune Group.
“There’s also people looking for somewhere to continue the day or night afterwards,” he adds. “The atmosphere feels different on those evenings. There’s a real sense of occasion, and we get to be part of the wider experience rather than simply being the place people stop for dinner.”
More than entertainment
Each year, almost 4 million people pass through the gates for a blockbuster calendar of more than 500 events. In addition to creating lasting memories, this activity also contributes more than $2 billion in social and economic value to Victoria and supports 16,000 jobs.
“Guests come for their favourite artist or team, but the excitement can be felt right across the city – packed hotels, bustling restaurants and everything else Melbourne has to offer,” Harnden says.
“That’s the real value of Melbourne Park. The experience starts here, but the benefits reach far beyond our gates.”
Indeed, during 2025, events across the precinct generated 1.6 million bed nights across the state, with visitor spending supporting Victorian businesses and jobs across accommodation dining, transport, retail and entertainment. It’s an impressive feat, and one made possible by thoughtful planning and active collaboration.
Designed for success
With strong connections to adjacent precincts like the MCG and Federation Square, as well as the Victorian Government, City of Melbourne and other industry bodies, Melbourne Park is part of a robust urban ecosystem.
“We share a commitment to ensuring Melbourne is known as a global events destination and work closely together to define shared priorities and opportunities to help keep the city vibrant and thriving,” Harnden explains.
The precinct also works hand in glove with partners such as Tennis Australia, sporting clubs and promoters. “Together, the variety of experiences we deliver draws a range of different audiences, who each add their own unique energy to the city’s year-round atmosphere,” Harnden says.
That live events energy flows back into local neighbourhoods, with businesses like New Quarter benefiting from their proximity to the precinct. The restaurant enjoys an incredibly diverse mix of patrons, with everyone from sporting fans and concertgoers to interstate and international travellers visiting the area.
“This creates valuable opportunities for local businesses, but its impact goes beyond event nights,” Gringlas adds. “Having an entertainment precinct nearby keeps Richmond connected to the broader life of the city and encourages people to explore the neighbourhood, discover local venues and return at other times.”
While the dynamic events line-up attracts more visitors to the city, the surrounding restaurants, bars and hotels help keep that late-night pulse thrumming.
“The relationship between major venues and independent hospitality is an important part of Melbourne’s night-time culture,” Gringlas says. “It creates movement, energy and a sense that there is always somewhere else to go.”
As the crowds disperse into the surrounding streets, the ripple effect of every show, match and tournament continues into the night. The venue does not operate alone, it fuels an interconnected network of local enterprise, culture and civic life. By giving millions of visitors, a reason to venture out, the venue ensures that when the last lights go out, Melbourne’s reputation as a thriving nightlife capital keeps on shining.
Find out what’s on at melbournepark.com.au