Planning an event in the Clarendon spaces? Here are the answers to our most commonly asked questions to help you get started.
1. Where are the Clarendon Auditorium and meeting rooms located within MCEC?
The Clarendon area is located near the Clarendon Street entrance of MCEC, with tram stops right out front and onsite parking nearby. The auditorium and rooms span Level 1 and Level 4 of the Exhibition Centre, and our customer service desk is just inside the entrance to help guide your delegates.
2. What capacity can the Clarendon spaces accommodate?
The Clarendon spaces can host up to 450 guests, with flexible layouts suited to conferences, workshops and networking events. Level 1 features the Clarendon Auditorium with adjoining breakout spaces, while Level 4 offers smaller meeting rooms overlooking the Yarra River.
3. What types of conferences and events work best in Clarendon spaces?
Clarendon is ideal for conferences, seminars, workshops, training days and corporate events in one connected area. You can run plenary sessions, breakouts, sponsor activations, exhibitions and catering side by side, with dedicated areas for registration, branding and delegate engagement.
4. What is the special offer?
For a limited time, enjoy up to 30% off room hire and choose from:
Half-day menu packages from $65 per person
Full-day menu packages from $80 per person
Book the Clarendon Auditorium and receive Clarendon Room F as a complimentary support space, perfect for speaker prep, storage or breakout sessions.
5. Are the Clarendon rooms private?
Yes. You can book the entire Clarendon area exclusively for your event, offering full privacy and controlled access, ideal for conferencing and confidential executive sessions.
6. What Audio-Visual options are available?
All AV is managed in-house by MCEC’s expert Audio Visual team, covering lighting, sound, staging and streaming. Some rooms feature built-in AV and natural light for a bright, seamless setup. Custom AV packages and quotes are available to suit your event needs.
7. Do you provide catering on site?
Yes. Catering is included in all packages and prepared by our award-winning chefs, showcasing Melbourne’s local flavours and seasonal ingredients. Menus are designed to suit every conference style, from networking lunches to multi-course dining experiences. You can also add post-conference options like happy hours or dinners to continue the experience.
8. How do guests get to the Clarendon spaces?
The Clarendon event spaces are close to tram stops and a driver drop-off zone on Clarendon Street, and just a 10-minute walk from Southern Cross Station. Wilson Parking is located on site for attendees driving in.
9. Is there accommodation nearby?
Yes. MCEC is directly connected to both Novotel and Pan Pacific Melbourne, offering convenient stays for multi-day conferences and events. You’ll also find a range of nearby hotels within walking distance.
Explore all accommodation options on our Accommodation page. Enjoy exclusive discounts: • 12% off your next stay at Novotel South Wharf • 10% off your booking at Pan Pacific Melbourne 10. Are the Clarendon spaces accessible?
Yes. MCEC is a fully accessible venue with step-free entry, lifts throughout the building, and accessible bathrooms. Our staff are trained to assist guests with mobility or access needs, and the Clarendon entrance provides an easy drop-off point for accessible vehicles. 11. What facilities are nearby for delegates?
Shed Café is located near the Clarendon foyer for coffee and refreshments, and South Wharf Promenade offers restaurants and bars for post-event dining. The customer service desk is also available to help delegates with directions or questions throughout the day.
12. What support is included when I book?
Every Clarendon space booking includes a dedicated event planner who works with you one-on-one from planning through to delivery to ensure a seamless experience.
13. How do I book or find out more?
Submit an enquiry via our website or contact our sales team directly. We’ll connect you with your dedicated event planner to bring your conference or event to life, Melbourne-style.