Explore the State Apartments, historic grounds, and a diverse program of performances and activities.
What’s on
There will be a range of activities and displays on the day including:
- Live music and dance
- Free children’s activities
- Self-guided tours of the State Apartments and grounds
- Roving entertainers
- Food and drink vendors
- Sports and community activities
Food and drink
Bring along your own picnic to enjoy in our historic gardens or sample the wide range of cuisines available for purchase next to the State Ballroom.
Vendors will be offering a variety of options. From sausage sizzles to curries, there will be something for everyone!
Explore some of the groups involved in this year's Open Day below:
Entertainment
Throughout the day mainstage family friendly entertainment on the beautiful Western Lawn will feature an array of Victorian talent, including:
- 10:50am Little Feet Music
- 11:30am Zimboyz
- 12:20pm The Chipolatas
- 1:10pm emotion 21 Dancers
- 1:50pm Jay Laga’aia
- 2:45pm Choir of Hard Knocks
- 3:25pm Peter Combe & The Bellyflop In a Pizza Band
- 4:20pm Lah Lah’s Big Live Band
Entry
Entry is free. Gates open at 10:30am, and close at 4:30pm.
Self-guided tours will operate between 11:00am and 4:00pm.
You will need to pass through a security checkpoint and bag inspection at entry.
Please note, last entry to the house will be at 4pm. Last entry to the gardens will be at 4:30pm.
Accessibility
Government House Victoria has step-free access to the State Apartments via a ramp next to the Fountain Court.
Please note that Government House is located within a large garden precinct and movement around the grounds is suitable for mobility aids. However, some activities will take place on cobbled pavement and lawns.
While there is no parking available at Government House, limited metered accessible parking is available on nearby Linlithgow and Birdwood Avenues.
Accessible toilets are available within the house and grounds of Government House.
During Open Days, Government House can get very busy. For Open Day 2023, a Quiet Zone has been designated in the Grounds. The Quiet Zone is a space to rest and relax in a sensory-friendly environment.
On arrival a staffed marquee will be located on the main driveway with further advice and information on accessibility.
For further information about accessibility, please contact: info@govhouse.vic.gov.au.
Getting there
Metro Tunnel disruptions
Check the Metro Tunnel website for transport disruptions.
Public transport
You are encouraged to take public transport:
- Flinders Street Station is a 15 to 20-minute walk to Government House
- Take the St Kilda Rd/Coventry St tram - routes 3/3a, 5, 6,16, 64, 67 and 72 - and get off at the Grant Street - Police Memorial stop
Parking
Parking will not be available at the House. If you drive, there will be limited metered parking on Linlithgow and Birdwood avenues.
Pets, Scooters and Bicycles
Please note, to ensure the safety of all visitors on Open Day, dogs – with the exception of assistance dogs – will not be permitted on the grounds of Government House.
E-scooters will also not be permitted entry.
Bike parking is available within the grounds of Government House. However, the riding of bikes is not permitted onsite.
