In the heart of Australia's creative landscape lies a treasure trove of artistic inspiration waiting to be explored.
While Melbourne often takes centre stage in discussions of Australia’s cultural scene, regional Victoria boasts its own array of creative havens, each a testament to the thriving arts community outside the bustling metropolis.
Thanks to the visionary initiative by the City of Melbourne, in collaboration with partners such as the RMIT Design Research Institute and Creative Victoria, Creative Spaces has become the beacon guiding artists and creatives across the nation to their perfect workspace.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
Here are 10 of our absolute favourite creative spaces across regional Vic:
Castlemaine Goods Shed Arts
Originally a rail freight storage in the 1860s, Castlemaine Goods Shed Arts now thrives as a creative hub.
Boasting an expansive floor space of 180m2 with ceilings reaching over 4 metres high, Goods Shed Arts offers a dynamic environment for creative exploration. Hosting residencies, and events, and fostering collaboration, it’s a dynamic space for the local arts scene. Air-conditioned studios, meeting rooms, and offices are available for hire, with profits supporting the Castlemaine State Festival.
Dedicated to inclusivity, Goods Shed Arts is a safe space for all members of the community, offering reduced fees for community organisations and artists. Conveniently located next to Castlemaine Train Station, accessing this cultural hub is easy for visitors from near and far.
Where: 21 Kennedy Street, Castlemaine
View this post on Instagram
The Project Space | Event Space
Located in the heart of Apollo Bay, The Project Space | Event Space provides a versatile setting for creative endeavours. With a capacity of 75 people and around 120m2 of floor space, this recently refurbished hall features ample natural light and stunning timber floors, radiating with character and charm.
Ideal for workshops, events, and performances, especially with its open-plan space, it’s equipped with state-of-the-art technology (including audio systems and projectors) and accessibility features.
Conveniently located near the town centre with ample parking, it provides stunning views of the hills, bay, and ocean. Whether you’re hosting a presentation or working on a project, The Project Space | Event Space invites you to unleash your creativity in Apollo Bay’s newest creative haven.
Where: 2 Nelson Street, Apollo Bay
Platform Arts
Platform Arts, a not-for-profit multi-arts space in Geelong’s vibrant arts precinct, offers a versatile venue for creativity. With 157m2 of floor space and a high ceiling, it accommodates up to 128 people.
Equipped with a fully functioning black box theatre, two dressing rooms, and a rehearsal room, Platform Arts caters to a myriad of artistic disciplines, from theatre and dance to music and screenings. With its retractable seating bank and state-of-the-art audio and lighting, the Performance Space is ideal for presentations, rehearsals, performances, conferences, and symposiums.
Located near Geelong Gallery and Geelong Arts Centre, it’s surrounded by cafes and bars and is super accessible by train, bus, or bike, with parking available. Platform Arts really is a hub of artistic activity – and it ensures inclusivity for all. Open Monday to Saturday, additional hours are available for performances.
Where: 60 Little Malop Street, Geelong
View this post on Instagram
Everyday Workspace
Everyday Workspace, formerly known as Super Kawaii Studio, offers a serene shared workspace in the heart of Warrnambool, Victoria. With 100m2 of floor space and a high ceiling, it accommodates up to 8 people.
Emphasising simplicity and affordability, Everyday provides a beautiful environment for productive work without the frills of expensive co-working spaces. Members enjoy 24/7 access, unlimited WiFi, meeting room use, and complimentary coffee, tea, and soda. Full-time members have the added benefit of a permanent desk, while casual members can access the space daily.
Everyday Workspace fosters a sense of community, where members share ideas, inspiration, and laughter. Conveniently located with plenty of parking options, it’s the ideal space for focused work and collaborative ventures in Warrnambool.
Where: 2/167 Koroit Street, Warrnambool
Infocus Photography & Video
This one is for the shutterbugs!
Infocus Photography & Video Studio, nestled in Ballarat’s bustling CBD, offers a contemporary and spacious environment for photographic and casting needs. Boasting 200m2 of smart, air-conditioned space with an 11ft ceiling, it’s ideal for fashion, beauty, and portrait shoots, as well as castings and glamour sessions.
The studio features a kitchen, dining area, and a full range of lighting equipment, including Elinchrom and LED systems. Professional printing services are also available on-site. With hourly, half-day, and full-day rates, the studio provides flexibility for various projects.
With accessible parking and transport options nearby, Infocus Photography & Video Studio is a premier destination for professional photography and videography in Ballarat.
Where: 102 Main Rd, Bakery Hill
Lot 19 Artspace
This is a workspace for those with a larger-scale vision. Lot 19 Artspace, nestled in the central highlands of Victoria, is a dynamic hub for creativity and celebration. With a capacity of 700 people, it offers a diverse range of spaces, including artists’ studios, an outdoor stage, a contemporary art gallery, and an outdoor sculpture park.
The venue is warmly eclectic, with recycled materials and lush garden spaces creating a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a wedding, birthday party, or special artsy event, Lot 19 provides a relaxed ambience and flexible options to curate an unforgettable experience.
From catering to entertainment and event management, their dedicated team ensures every detail is taken care of. With a light-filled gallery, outdoor stages, seating, tables, marquees, and more, Lot 19 is equipped to host events of any scale.
Where: Langlslow Street, Castlemaine
View this post on Instagram
Workers Hut
Workers Hut offers a versatile creative space in Torquay, perfect for events, co-working, and photography. With a spacious warehouse accommodating up to 40 people, it’s ideal for gatherings, workshops, or exhibitions. Adjacent to a relaxed laneway, it offers a unique atmosphere for your function.
Alternatively, make use of the permanent or flexible desks, lounge areas, or private offices for productive work sessions. The venue also houses a fully equipped Photography Studio for capturing the perfect image. Located amidst cafes, and surf shops, and close to the beach, Workers Hut provides a vibrant setting for your next project. With 24/7 access and on-site parking, it’s convenient for all kinds of creatives.
Where: 17 Baines Crescent, Torquay
Studio ERIN&TARA
Studio ERIN&TARA offers a charming and versatile space in Kyneton, perfect for creative professionals.
With abundant natural light and high ceilings, the 32 sqm studio is ideal for photography, pop-up retail, podcast production, and more. Equipped with essential amenities including garment racks, a garment steamer, and a Bluetooth speaker, it caters to various creative needs. Additional equipment such as studio lights and background paper are available for hire.
Conveniently located near Piper St, with ample street parking, it’s easily accessible for clients and visitors. Minimum booking is 2 hours, with hourly and daily rates available. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil workspace or a backdrop for your creative projects, Studio ERIN&TARA provides a welcoming environment in the heart of Kyneton.
Where: 176a Mollison Street, Kyneton
THE KO
THE KO offers two versatile creative spaces in Newtown, fostering an environment for community collaboration and inspiration. With a photography studio, coworking office, meeting room, kitchen, and events space, it’s ideal for various projects and gatherings.
The studio boasts high ceilings and a spacious layout, creating an inviting atmosphere for work and creativity. With flexible pricing options and amenities including accessible features, smooth ground surfaces, and suitable lighting, it caters to diverse needs.
With free all-day parking available, it’s easily accessible for visitors. Whether you’re seeking a photography studio or an event/workshop venue, THE KO provides a warm and welcoming environment for your next project.
Where: 1/14 Lambert Avenue, Newtown
View this post on Instagram
Storyland
Storyland offers a vibrant creative space in Castlemaine, where talented individuals collaborate on videos, animations, websites, and branding projects. With high ceilings and ample natural light, the 126m2 studio fosters a dynamic environment for innovation.
The upper deck features a meeting space with modern amenities, including an Air TV monitor, fast internet, and adjustable lighting. The lower deck provides spacious workstations and a well-equipped kitchen. Additionally, the studio offers sound-proofed recording and post-production rooms.
Conveniently situated between Castlemaine’s shops, cafes, and the train station, Storyland is easily accessible for both locals and commuters. With 24/7 access and flexible pricing options, including daily and monthly rates, it caters to diverse working needs.
Where: 14 Mostyn Street, Castlemaine
From the seaside in Torquay to the vibrant streets of Ballarat, Victoria’s regional creative spaces offer a diverse tapestry of artistic expression waiting to be explored. Thanks to Creative Spaces and its partners, artists and creatives across Australia can access a wealth of inspiring venues and resources, fostering collaboration, innovation, and community spirit across the nation – including right here in regional Victoria.
So, whether you’re a seasoned creative or simply seeking a dose of inspiration, venture beyond the city limits and discover the hidden gems of regional Victoria’s thriving arts scene.
Explore more on the Creative Spaces website.
Creative Spaces is a program of the City of Melbourne. Follow them at @creativespaces
