Melbourne’s Australian Music Vault is getting a new place to raise a glass, with a bar set to open among some of the country’s most iconic rock and pop memorabilia from 1 October 2026.
Located at Arts Centre Melbourne, the new bar will offer visitors the chance to enjoy a drink surrounded by the stories, costumes and memories of Australian music history. Open from 4pm until late, as well as during matinee performances, it will be a handy stop for theatre-goers, music fans and anyone exploring Melbourne’s arts precinct.
Arts Centre Melbourne’s Executive Director, Destination and Audience Kim Berkers said “next year marks the tenth birthday of the Australian Music Vault. Since its opening millions of visitors have relished diving into the myriad stories and riches of Australia’s contemporary music industry.
“Arts Centre Melbourne is thrilled to be introducing a bar to the Vault. Adding yet another reason to visit this must-see Melbourne destination and spend more time engaging with the artists and moments that have shaped Australian contemporary music,” Berkers said.
The free, permanent exhibition opened in 2017 with founding patrons including Molly Meldrum, Kylie Minogue, Tina Arena, the late Archie Roach and Michael Gudinski. Since then, it has offered an ever-changing look at the artists, producers, managers, promoters, roadies and technicians who helped shape Australian music.
Current highlights include AC/DC, John Farnham, INXS, Marcia Hines, Split Enz, Yothu Yindi, Sampa The Great, Tash Sultana and Amyl and the Sniffers.
The new bar will serve beer, wine, ready-to-serve cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, alongside bar snacks. Its opening will coincide with a new menu at neighbouring restaurant The Barre, led by Executive Chef Diego Rosales.
With the refurbished Ian Potter State Theatre also reopening in October, the precinct is shaping up for a big spring.
