Families heading to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show this week will get a cost break, with free entry now available for all children under 16.
The five-day event opens Wednesday 25 March and runs through to Sunday 29 March at the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, drawing more than 100,000 visitors each year. It is widely considered one of the top garden shows in the world, combining large-scale floral displays with cutting-edge landscape design and installations.
The announcement means families can explore the full program without the added cost of kids’ tickets. Anyone who has already purchased tickets for children will automatically receive a refund.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said, “Victorian horticultural farmers are among the best in the world and we want everyone to enjoy this fantastic event and support local farmers.”
“Bringing a world class show that demonstrates the best that Victoria has to offer is something that everyone should be able to access – that’s why kids go free.”
Beyond the headline gardens, the show includes expert talks, hands-on workshops and a large retail section, giving visitors the chance to pick up plants, tools and ideas for their own spaces. It is designed to appeal to both serious gardeners and those just starting out.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said, “We are supporting families to get out and enjoy this year’s Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show with free energy for kids.”
“We know cost of living is impacting Victorians and we want to be sure families aren’t missing out on great events like this.”
The event also highlights the strength of Victoria’s garden industry, which employs more than 11,000 people across landscaping, retail, turf and floristry.
For those planning a visit, the timing lines up with early autumn, making it one of the most colourful weekends on Melbourne’s events calendar.
