Populous Leading the Design of New 5,000-Capacity Music Hall for Melbourne’s Arden Central

Delivered and operated by Live Nation, the venue is expected to host more than 100 events annually, providing a new stage for international, national and local artists.

The music hall will form part of the $7 billion Arden Central neighbourhood being developed by the Hamton and Hostplus joint venture. Just 1.5 kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD, the precinct will bring together housing, culture, sport, education and nature, with direct access to Arden Station.

For Populous, the project brings live music design expertise to a new neighbourhood where shared experiences will help shape its identity and community life.

Arden Central is planned to deliver more than 5,400 homes and 5.5 hectares of open space. Live Nation joins Melbourne Victory Football Club and the University of Melbourne as new precinct partners, building on North Melbourne Football Club’s longstanding presence in Arden.

Guided by Designing with Country principles, the precinct is being designed in partnership with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elders and communities.

The music hall will create a close connection between artists and fans, supported by premium audience experiences, artist amenities and efficient production access. Live Nation will also establish a Community Events Fund to support local artists and community use of the venue.

Together, these elements will help establish Arden Central as a new destination for live entertainment and a place for people to gather, connect and return.