Home to the Victorian trade union movement, Trades Hall is also a vibrant arts and theatre venue, hosting events as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Melbourne Fringe Festival.
The building was constructed in 1859 as a rallying point for the labour movement and a place to educate workers and their families.
Between 1874 and 1925, the original timber structure was transformed into today’s impressive two-storey building, with its classical columns and pediment.
Today, it remains Australia’s oldest trades hall building, still used for its original purpose.