10 Tried & Tested Venues for Business Events in Sydney & Surrounds

After coordinating events across Sydney for businesses big and small, I have a good feel for what makes a venue work—and what doesn’t. Whether you're planning a conference, product launch, client dinner, or team workshop, choosing the right space can make all the difference.

Here are 10 Sydney venues I’ve personally worked with and would confidently recommend for small to medium-sized business events:

1. Steyne Hotel Rooftop, Manly

A relaxed, beachside vibe with unbeatable views. It’s great for smaller conferences and bespoke events that need both AV capabilities and dedicated entertainment areas, and it won't break the budget. Perfect for mixing business with a more casual, coastal feel.

Bonus: The restaurant located adjacent to the function can be booked for private dinners or post event celebrations.

Watch Out: The rooftop gets warm in summer, so avoid those particularly hot months.

2. The Establishment Ballroom, Sydney CBD

Elegant, central, and a favourite for conferences, product launches or anything that needs a touch of polish.

Bonus: Merivale’s service and food is always on point.

Watch Out: Stairs! The elevators are small and slow. Consider where you will host your breaks if not on the same level, especially if mobility is an issue for guests.

3. Deckhouse, Woolwich

Water views and a tucked-away location make this one feel like a hidden gem. It’s ideal for full-day events where you want a relaxed setting with natural light but still need great AV and catering.

Bonus: Private Wharf. For something extra special, consider organising a water taxi to transport guests to the private wharf—it’s a memorable way to arrive and adds to the experience.

Watch Out: Location. If your attendees are flying in or coming from out of town, keep in mind that public transport and nearby accommodation options are limited. You may need to organise transfers or suggest places to stay closer to the city.

4. Hyatt Regency Sydney

If you need scale, strong service, and easy logistics—this is your go-to. Their event spaces are professional, well-equipped, and ideal for conferences or formal presentations.

Bonus: Their central location means there’s no shortage of nearby accommodation, dining options, and transport—great for multi-day events or interstate guests.

Watch Out: It’s a busy and popular venue so book in advance if you have heart set on a particular space.

5. Cruise Bar Function Rooms, Overseas Passenger Terminal

Right on the harbour, this one’s a showstopper. I’ve used it for corporate celebrations and product launches that needed a bit of sparkle—think water views, great catering, and a space that feels both fun and professional.

Bonus: Location, Location, Location! Easy access to trains, ferries and buses.

Watch Out: Just be mindful of cruise ship schedules—when one’s in port, it’ll block the view (and sometimes the natural light).

6. Sydney School of Entrepreneurship, Ultimo

Perfect for innovation-focused or start-up friendly events. It’s flexible, modern, and a great fit for workshops or panel discussions. The classroom-style set-up encourages collaboration and idea sharing, making it ideal for sessions that need energy, engagement, and plenty of sticky notes.

Bonus: Budget-friendly, with an in-house AV system that keeps things simple. You can also use the onsite TAFE caterer for convenience and ease.

Watch Out: Parking. There’s no onsite parking, so attendees will need to use nearby parking facilities or arrive early to find street parking.

7. Novotel Darling Harbour

Solid, reliable, and centrally located. Great for corporate events and multi-day conferences. Their team is easy to work with, and guests love the location.

Bonus: They have plenty of rooms and flexible spaces for breakouts and workshops, which makes it easy to build out a full event program. The outdoor deck can be booked for private functions.

Watch Out: Darling Harbour can get busy with tourists and major events, so allow extra time for transport or parking, especially during peak periods. Avoid booking around VIVID (June).

8. Rockpool Private Dining Room

For more intimate, high-end dinners or VIP roundtables. It’s private, polished, and leaves a lasting impression.

Bonus: Their passionfruit pavlova is the best I’ve had!

Watch Out: While it's called a private dining room, sound can carry if you are located off the main dining room. Something to keep in mind if you're planning speeches or sensitive conversations.

9. Pullman Sydney Hyde Park

Well set up for mid-size conferences and business events, especially if you’re after breakout rooms, a great central location, and flexible packages. They also have a bright, airy restaurant with large windows overlooking Hyde Park—perfect for event lunches.

Bonus: The hotel’s location right on Hyde Park adds a sense of space and calm—great for guests who want to stretch their legs between sessions or take meetings outside.

Watch Out: While the meeting rooms are well-equipped, many don’t have natural light, so be mindful of this if you're planning a full-day session or want a space that feels open and energising.

10. Squires Landing, Overseas Passenger Terminal

Casual, vibrant, and with unbeatable harbour views. A fun option for networking sessions, social events, or sponsor thank-yous.

Bonus: The venue features a fully glazed microbrewery, offering guests a unique opportunity to observe the brewing process while enjoying freshly crafted beers—a distinctive touch that adds character to any event.

Watch Out: Like Cruise Bar, the views can disappear if a ship is docked—worth checking ahead.

Planning an event and need venue advice or full event support? I’d love to chat. With hands-on experience and strong venue relationships, I can help make your next event smooth, stress-free, and exactly the way you imagined it.