Explore the State Apartments, historic grounds, and enjoy a diverse program of performances and activities for all ages.
What's on
Throughout the day, musical and dance performances will feature on the main stage on the Western Lawn, including the Royal Australian Navy Band, the Victorian College of the Arts Jazz Band, and a Bollywood dance performance.
There will also be a range of activities and displays on the day, including:
- Free children’s activities
- Self-guided tours of the State Apartments
- Roving entertainment
- Food and beverage vendors
- Sports and community activities.
At 12:15pm, the Western Lawn will be the best vantage point to view the RAAF Heritage Aircraft Flyover.
For more information and to view a map, download the Government House Victoria Open Day 2024 Information Pamphlet.
Food and drinks
Bring along your own picnic to enjoy on the Western Lawn with views of the city skyline and Government House.
Alternatively, you can sample the wide variety of food available for purchase from food vans and community barbeques.
Entry
Entry is free. Gates open at 10:30am and close at 3:30pm, with last entry for the self-guided House tour at 4pm.
You will need to pass through a security checkpoint and bag inspection at entry.
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 2024, a designated Quiet Zone is available to rest and relax in a sensory-friendly environment.
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.
