Melbourne Town Hall

Melbourne Town Hall is the central municipal building of the City of Melbourne. It is located on the northeast corner of Swanston and Collins Streets, in the central business district. It is the seat of the local government. It has been used for multiple purposes such as concerts, theatrical plays and exhibitions.

So many of the decisions that have helped shape Melbourne were made within the heritage-listed Town Hall. A mix of bluestone and Tasmanian freestone, the classically designed building features a clock tower and fine masonry.

As well as the Council Chambers, the Town Hall features a large auditorium, which was remodelled following a fire in 1925 and includes panels decorated with sepia figures.

The auditorium’s Grand Organ recently underwent an extensive refurbishment program, and has featured in cutting-edge performances by a range of artists including Philip Glass, Paul Grabowski and the Necks. A free lunchtime concert series has been running since 2003, and the Grand Organ Museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the organ and breathe air into its venerable pipes.

Free tours of Melbourne's historic Town Hall give visitors the chance to learn about the architectural, social and political significance of this impressive 19th century building. Experience the grandeur of the wood-panelled Council Chamber, stand on the portico where the Beatles waved, sit in the Lord Mayor's chair and view the richly carved Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ, the largest grand romantic organ in the southern hemisphere. Rooms included in the tour are subject to availability.