Community halls and function rooms
Halls are the most flexible option for a first birthday or christening: climate controlled, easy parking and no weather risk. Ask about your access time — most councils and venues charge from the moment you walk in, so build in an hour for setup and half an hour for pack down. Check the floor is flat and clean, and confirm whether tables and chairs are included.
Backyards and home parties
The cheapest and most relaxed option, and perfectly suited to soft play if you have flat, dry grass or paving. Have a wet-weather backup — a garage, covered deck or indoor living area. Shade matters too: direct summer sun makes equipment hot and is hard on little ones.
Apartment common rooms and playrooms
Increasingly popular in Melbourne's inner suburbs. Book early, confirm lift access and check any noise or decoration rules with building management. Indoor playrooms suit smaller guest lists and toddlers who need a contained space.
Cafés, restaurants and dedicated party venues
Convenient because catering is handled, but usually the least flexible on decorations, timing and bringing in your own entertainment. Always confirm in writing whether external hire equipment is allowed before you pay a deposit.
Parks and reserves
Lovely in spring and autumn, but most Melbourne councils require a permit for events with hire equipment, and there's no wet-weather cover. If you go this route, check permit rules early and keep a plan B.
Before you book — quick checklist
- Space: allow roughly 4m x 4m of flat area for a full soft play setup
- Access time: at least 45–60 minutes before guests arrive
- Surface: flat, clean and dry — grass, paving or indoor flooring
- Power and shade for outdoor setups
- Parking close to the entrance for delivery and pack down
- Written confirmation that external hire equipment is permitted
Adding soft play to your venue
Our complete white soft play package — ball pit, climber, rocker, blocks, picket fence and foam tiles — is $300, with free pickup from Bentleigh East or $150 delivery including set up and pack down within 20km of Bentleigh.
Check availability