Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) Acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Narrm, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and to Elders of all First Nations communities that visit MCEC.

Plenary 1 or 3

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ConferenceConcert and entertainment

Plenary is a world-renowned architectural marvel at the heart of the Convention Centre, great for conferences, speaker events and concerts. Plenary 1 or 3 can be sectioned from the larger theatre, creating a smaller theatre seating up to 1,482 guests. It provides your delegates and speakers with easy access to neighbouring meeting rooms, exhibition spaces, a banquet room and on-site accommodation.

Explore our floor plans and space capacities guide

Capacity range

  • Theatre

    1482 people

  • Theatre exclude balcony

    977 people

  • Theatre sub-divided

    527 people

  • Classroom

    126 people

  • Cocktail

    333 people

  • Banquet

    170 people

  • Cabaret

    136 people

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Room details

Room features

  • Ideal for large events with fully automated retractable seats

  • Flexible space with theatre and flat floor options

  • Adjustable acoustic walls

  • Blinds can be lowered at the rear to create a more intimate setting

  • Large connected foyer for pre-event registration, catering and retail outlets

  • Dressing rooms, green room, and VIP suites

  • Support of a dedicated event planner

  • Specialist lighting, vision, audio, multimedia, and rigging support

  • Pre-event marketing support

  • Signage and branding opportunities

  • Plenary Café, exhibition bays, banquet and meeting rooms nearby

Plenary is a unique space. Download its specifications below.

Download the Plenary specifications document
Accessibility features

  • Accessible parking and lift at Door 6 and 10, Exhibition Centre Basement Car Park

  • Lift nearby to access the upper levels

  • Braille door signage

  • Guide dog friendly

  • Hearing assisted devices available for hire

  • Designated wheelchair seating arrangement, with companion seating

  • Stage ramp available

  • Wheelchair accessible toilets nearby

  • Ambulant toilets nearby

  • Prams and strollers must be stored in the Cloak Room at the Customer Service desk next to Goldfields Café

Technology features

Pre-installed technology:

  • Intelligent lectern with fixed microphones and presentation computer

  • High definition projector and screen

  • Vision control system

  • PA system for sound amplification

  • Audio control desk

  • Basic stage lighting with control

  • Multifunction touch panel

  • Large in-built stage

Optional extras:

  • Wireless microphones

  • Display screens

  • Recording or streaming equipment

  • Concert equipment

  • Rigging and lighting

  • Lectern branding

  • Wireless internet

Please note this space requires a minimum of two operators.

Room location

Spaces that mean business

When the office isn’t enough, we’re here with breakout spaces perfect for side chats, brainstorming big ideas, or finding quiet moments.

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Small Cantilevered Room

Accommodating up to 63 people, our Small Cantilevered Room offers stylish interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the Yarra River.

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Small Meeting Room

Small Meeting Rooms accommodate up to 70 people for business meetings, presentations, cocktail events or dinners. Connect adjacent rooms for more space.

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Medium Meeting Room

Maximise productivity in our Medium Meeting Rooms. Perfect for business meetings, presentations or dinners. Foyer space available.

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Large Meeting Room

Large Meeting Rooms are ideal for business meetings, presentations or dinners. Accommodate up to 234 people. Foyer available for registration and catering.

Enquire now

Interested in hosting your next event at MCEC? Find out more about how we can bring your event to life.

Reach out to the team

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