About Laundry Bar
Laundry Bar is a well-known two-storey nightclub and live-music venue in Fitzroy, an inner-city suburb of Melbourne. It occupies an old industrial building at 50 Johnston Street and has been a fixture of the area’s nightlife for over a decade. Inside, the style is raw and edgy – exposed brick walls, neon lights and graffiti give it an underground, warehouse-club vibe. The club features two full levels (connected by stairs, no elevator), each with its own fully stocked bar, stage and dance floor. In total the venue holds roughly 600 people standing (around 375 seated) at maximum capacity. The layout includes two smoking areas (one on each level) so patrons can step outside for fresh air. A venue listing notes that Laundry Bar comes with “2 bars, 2 smoking areas, 2 stages” and a professional Funktion-One sound system , making it a full-scale live music venue. The venue is licensed late (often until 3am on weekends) and enforces an 18+ entry policy, so it’s a true late-night club experience.
The sound and lighting setup is top-notch for a neighbourhood club. High-quality speakers and mixers are ready for DJs or live bands on each floor, and the space is built to handle full AV productions. In fact, the venue’s hire information boasts that the site can be “tailored to any style event” with support for LED video walls, smoke machines and full sound rigs . Essentially, Laundry Bar is set up to host anything from DJ dance parties to rock band concerts. It also has a large outdoor courtyard off the upper level (used as a smoking area and extra lounge space), plus restrooms and a cloakroom on each floor for convenience .
One unique feature is Laundry Bar’s eclectic atmosphere. The owners openly promote hip-hop and rap (their official “house rules” even state “we play hip hop and rap – if you don’t like these genres, you won’t like Laundry” ), yet the club also books rock, metal and electronic acts. In practice, you’ll find anything from a live indie band to an international DJ on the bill. For example, recent line-ups have included touring acts like UK DJ MUZZ and New Zealand punk band Who Shot Scott (2025), as well as local Australian bands such as The Generators and Goldcountry . Signature nights like “Black on Black” (a popular weekly hip-hop/club night) and “Sunday Brunches” (a dance series) draw regular crowds . The venue is also famous for $15 cocktail jugs (early in the night) and packed dance floors, which add to the party vibe . In short, Laundry Bar offers a non-stop mix of hip-hop, rock, DJ parties and subcultural nights, giving it broad appeal.
Laundry Bar has a reputation for being a gritty, authentic piece of Fitzroy’s nightlife. Many locals remember it as one of Melbourne’s few late-night lesbian bars, which made it a landmark of the city’s LGBT scene. Today it’s marketed as fully inclusive; management even posts house rules prohibiting any racism, sexism or harassment . This means the club tends to draw a very diverse crowd – punks, hip-hop heads, queer communities and everyone in between all share the dance floor. It’s sometimes said that the club’s unofficial motto is “Keep it Classy, Fitzroy,” reflecting its blend of attitude and tongue-in-cheek fun . Indeed, the venue encourages friendly behaviour – their posted rules warn that anyone “creeping or putting hands where they’re not invited” will be kicked out . This combination of rough charm and community spirit is what makes Laundry Bar special. It feels like a hidden gem where Melbourne’s alternative culture can converge in one place.
Events and Programming
Laundry Bar is active almost every weekend, offering a wide variety of events. On any given Thursday, Friday or Saturday night you might encounter a themed dance party, a live band concert or a headlining DJ set. The club’s own event lineup has included recurring nights like “Black on Black” (a wildly popular Tuesday hip-hop/dance party) and “Sunday Brunches” (a dance-night series) . On other nights they frequently feature touring or local bands. For example, in April 2024 their calendar listed indie-rock shows by bands like Reverend and Phoenix Avenue, plus themed DJ nights (Cave Party) .
Past performers at Laundry Bar span many genres. The venue’s concert listings (e.g. on Songkick) show that in late 2025 it hosted international and local acts such as the British electronic artist MUZZ and New Zealand punk band Who Shot Scott , as well as Melbourne’s own alt-pop duo Cat & Calmell. There have been metalcore and hardcore shows too (e.g. multi-band events like the July 2025 Dot.AY showcase). Even hip-hop legends have dropped by – it’s rumoured that Ghostface Killah (of Wu-Tang Clan) once played the intimate downstairs stage, for instance. Outside of ticketed concerts, many weekend club nights are strictly 18+ dance parties with genres ranging from EDM and house to rap and R&B.
As for tickets, costs vary by event. Smaller local shows might be as cheap as $10–$20, while bigger headliners tend toward $30–$50. Many club nights (especially weekends) simply use a cover charge – reports have mentioned around $15 at the door on top of any ticket . In any case, popular nights can fill quickly, so it’s best to buy in advance or arrive early. Follow Laundry Bar’s official site or social pages for announced lineups and ticket links. For recurring events, there is often free entry or a pre-sale available online.
Tickets and Booking
There is no permanent box office at Laundry Bar, so the usual way to get in is to buy tickets through official channels. Most concerts at the venue sell tickets via online box offices (Ticketek, Moshtix or similar). The Songkick page for the venue confirms this – upcoming shows have “Buy Tickets” links, implying compatible ticketing systems . When a show is announced, check whether it’s ticketed and follow the provided link or go through the band’s own site. If it’s a club night or smaller gig, you can often buy at the door if it’s not sold out.
Buy early for major events. Laundry Bar only holds a few hundred people, so big-ticket shows can sell out quickly. If you see an event you want (say, an international act or a local favorite), get your tickets as soon as they go on sale. On the flip side, some nights are purely pay-at-door; these include many weekly dance parties. If an event listing just says “Open 9pm” with no advance sale, it likely means you can just show up and pay the cover charge (e.g. $10–$15 cash or card at the door). Keep ID handy either way.
For private bookings (birthdays, corporate events, etc.), Laundry Bar does handle reservations. They can rent out booths or even the whole space for a minimum spend. If that’s on your agenda, you would typically email or call their events manager (their website provides contact details). Note that even private parties there are still 18+ and seated at the club’s discretion.
Seating and Layout
Laundry Bar’s layout is built for standing and dancing – there are very few fixed seats. The main floor and upstairs mezzanine are mostly open space. You will find only a handful of tables and small lounge booths, mainly along the perimeter and on the upper courtyard. During regular events these are first-come, first-served. In practice, everyone stands or dances by default. If you need a guaranteed seat, you either arrive early to snag a corner booth or arrange a VIP table with management (if available).
The venue has stages on both levels. Most acts perform on the ground-floor stage, so fans often pack in front of it. For a better view, many people gather on the upper level on the steps or near the railing, which overlooks the downstairs crowd. In either area the sightlines are fairly good. Sound is even – the Funktion-One system and monitors make it loud enough all over. A handy tip: if you want to talk or rest, heading to the upstairs courtyard near the bar is wise, since that area is quieter and has some seating.
Because the bar is built for dancing, the floor can feel hot and crowded. If your feet hurt, the railing and higher landing are popular spots to perch. If you prefer the front-row experience, go early to get close to the stage. There’s really no “bad seat” for sound – just be aware that loud bass and speakers are anywhere near the dance area, so take breaks if needed. Leather jackets, sturdy shoes or sneakers are recommended for comfort and protection.
Getting There and Parking
Laundry Bar’s address is 50 Johnston St, Fitzroy VIC 3065 . It sits just off Brunswick Street, one block east of Nicholson Street, making it easy to find. Here are the main transit options:
Trams: The easiest way is via Melbourne’s tram network. Tram routes 11 and 86 both run along Nicholson/Smith Streets near Johnston. For example, take tram 86 (Docklands–Bundoora) or 11 (West Preston–CBD) to Nicholson/Napier or Nicholson/Gertrude stops, then walk a block east. Tram 96 (East Brunswick–St Kilda) stops on Nicholson as well, about 5–10 minutes’ walk from Johnston. Streetcar 12 (St Kilda) does not go to Fitzroy, but you could take a tram into Carlton and switch to a bus.Buses: Several buses stop near Johnston St. The 250 and 250E on Nicholson Street (Elgin Street stop) is just a 2–3 minute walk. Buses on Victoria/Park Rd or Nicholson & Napier also serve the area. Check PTV for routes from your location if you prefer bus. Taxis/Rideshare: Taxis and Uber are common choices, especially late at night. You can be dropped off on Johnston St right at the door. (There is no formal taxi rank outside, so expect to hail or order a car.) After the bars close (3am), you’ll likely need a cab or rideshare – note that the late-night tram services have generally ended by then.Train: Fitzroy has no train station. The nearest stations are Parliament or Victoria Park, which are over a kilometer away. If you arrive at the city’s train hub (Flinders St, Southern Cross etc.), it’s easiest to hop on a tram from there. For instance, take the 86 from Flinders St to Nicholson, or the 96 from Parliament to Nicholson.
If driving, plan ahead for parking. Street parking in Fitzroy is mostly metered and fills up quickly on weekends. Two convenient paid parking options are: Wilson Parking at 338 Gore St (behind the Aldi in Fitzroy, about a 6-minute walk) and the Cinema Nova carpark at 333 Drummond St (Carlton, about a 7-minute walk) . Both charge hourly rates (often less than $10–$15 for an all-night stay). If you do park on the street, observe permits and payment signs carefully. Some nearby lots at pubs or gyms sometimes allow paid parking as well.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive at Laundry Bar, have your photo ID ready. The venue is strictly 18+ and enforces ID checking at the door. Security will also do a quick pat-down or bag inspection. Dress smart-casual to minimize any hassle clearing the door. While there’s no official “dress code,” overly casual attire (such as sports jerseys or thongs) can sometimes lead to extra scrutiny after dark.
Once inside, the atmosphere is lively and loud. The downstairs area has the main dance floor and a stage, while the upstairs level has a second bar and dance space (plus an outdoor courtyard). Music plays at full volume from late evening, so talking is mostly done by the bars or in the courtyard. The club operates a three-bar system: one bar on each level and a smaller DJ booth bar, all serving a wide selection of drinks. Patrons frequently enjoy the signature large-format cocktails (like sangria jugs). Standard beers (local and mainstream) and spirits are available too. The bar staff are experienced and fast; they’ll make almost any cocktail or shot you request.
Keep in mind it’s a nightclub environment. Flash photography is discouraged so as not to blind performers or fellow dancers. Mobile phones can be used sparingly, but remember people are there to enjoy music. The venue provides free water or charges only the cost of a glass, so you can sip water at the bar if needed. There is a coat/checkroom area downstairs if you need to store jackets or large bags (for a small fee) . Otherwise, plan to keep your valuables on you. Restrooms are clean but compact; women’s and men’s bathrooms are on both floors.
Laundry Bar’s owners proactively set a respectful tone inside. They post “house rules” reminding patrons not to harass each other and note that racism, sexism or foul play will not be tolerated . In short, they expect everyone to have fun safely. If any problems arise, friendly security staff usually handle them quickly so the show goes on. Generally, once you’re in, the vibe is inclusive – locals often say it feels like a big neighborhood party.
Nearby Amenities
Fitzroy is packed with entertainment options, so you have plenty of choices for dinner or a pre-show drink near Laundry Bar. Within a few minutes’ walk are restaurants and cafes for any taste. Vegie Bar (vegetarian/vegan meals), Bon Ap’ Petit Bistro (casual French/Aussie food) and a slew of Italian, Thai, and Middle Eastern eateries line the nearby streets. If you prefer sitting down, many Fitzroy pubs offer food too (for example, Royal Derby is an art-filled pub with hearty food, Naked for Satan has rooftop cocktails and pintxos). You can also grab pizza by the slice, burgers or dumplings at the nearby brasseries.
Once it’s time for drinks, you won’t be short on options. Spots like The Standard Wine Bar (just a few blocks away) or The Night Cat (a rock/punk bar on Johnston) are classic local haunts. A popular tradition is to meet at one of the clubs or bars on Brunswick Street first – Brunswick has loads of pubs and brewpubs – and then roll over to Laundry for the late-night dance scene. All these venues are within a 5–10 minute walk, which makes it easy to bar-hop if you wish.
If you need a place to stay, Fitzroy and neighboring Collingwood have several small hotels and serviced apartments. The Standard (Art Series hotel, 250m from Laundry Bar) and Alston Wakeman (apartment hotel) are convenient higher-end options. There are also Airbnb and budget hostels around. If you’re coming from downtown Melbourne this evening, a quick taxi or tram ride gets you here in 10–15 minutes, so many people opt to sleep in the city and just taxi home afterwards. Do keep in mind that public transport frequency drops after midnight. Trams usually stop running around 12–1am, so if your party goes past last call (3am license), you should plan for a taxi or rideshare.
What Makes This Venue Special
Laundry Bar’s charm lies in its unpolished, authentic character. It isn’t trying to be a flashy nightclub or wine bar – it proudly retains the feel of a gritty, inner-city warehouse. For many Melbournians, that makes it a refreshing throwback to the city’s rock-and-roll roots. Unlike trendy venues, it feels like a neighborhood institution: the walls might be worn and the bathrooms compact, but there’s something magical about that lived-in vibe. Long-time visitors often reminisce about their first gigs or dances here. It’s the kind of place where local bands cut their teeth and lifelong friends hang out in the booths.
On the cultural side, Laundry Bar is notable for its inclusivity and diversity. As mentioned, it once served a dedicated lesbian clientele, giving it a special place in LGBT history. Today it explicitly welcomes everyone. You’ll commonly see a mix of punks in leather jackets, hip-hop heads in snapbacks, artists in paint-splattered jeans and couples of all orientations dancing together. This eclectic crowd is guided by a very simple rule – have fun, but be respectful. The management’s zero-tolerance stance on bad behavior is rare among clubs; it means the music and energy stay the focus. In fact, some longtime patrons say this venue saved Fitzroy’s nightlife by giving people a safe, all-night place to gather when other old clubs shut down.
There are also some fun traditions. Cheap cocktail pitchers (those $15 jugs, especially sangria or punch) are a legendary bargain here and often mentioned in reviews. It wouldn’t be Laundry Bar without someone at some point trying to bother you at the shady booths or the security joking with the crowd – and that familiarity is part of its charm. Production-wise, stage lighting varies from basic to elaborate depending on the show, but on many dance nights the smoke machine and strobes turn the place into a full-on rave room. Musicians often remark that getting a tune through Laundry’s Funktion-One system makes you feel like a festival performance.
In short, people (both artists and partygoers) love Laundry Bar because it’s real. It’s community-oriented rather than touristy. Melbourne’s scene is full of high-end lounges and cocktail hotspots, so Laundry Bar stands out as “Melbourne’s working man’s party” – everyone’s welcome, the drinks are cheap, the music spans all tastes, and the good time goes until the early morning. If you want to see what Fitzroy is *really* like after dark, Laundry Bar is the place that embodies its spirit.
Visitor Tips and Information
How do I get tickets to a Laundry Bar show and how much do they cost?
For major concerts and touring acts at Laundry Bar, tickets are usually sold online through the event promoter (Ticketek, Moshtix or similar platforms). Check the Laundry Bar website or social media for links when an event is announced. Smaller gigs or club nights may simply use a cover charge at the door (typically around $10–$15). Ticket prices vary – local band shows might be $10–$20, while big-name events can range $30–$60. One reviewer noted a $15 entry fee on a crowded night , so budget for that in addition to any advertised ticket price. If you’re not sure, it’s safest to buy early online; popular shows often sell out.
Getting There & Parking: What are my options?
Public transport is recommended. Tram routes 11, 86 and 96 serve the area – get off on Nicholson Street at either Napier or Gertrude and walk over to Johnston St (only a block). Several buses (250, 250E, etc.) also stop nearby. There’s no train station in Fitzroy, so if you come by train you’ll need to transfer to a tram or bus. If you drive, nearby paid parking is your best bet: Wilson Parking at 338 Gore St (inside the Aldi carpark) and the Cinema Nova lot on Drummond St are close by . Metered street parking is very limited. Taxis and rideshares can drop off on Johnston St right at the door. On busy nights, public transport will have closed for the night by 1am, so plan for a taxi or Uber after last call.
Is there any assigned seating or VIP area?
No. Laundry Bar is primarily general admission/standing room. There are a few small lounge booths (especially downstairs) and some tables on the upper patio, but these aren’t reserved for the public at large. The club does allow private booth or table reservations for large groups or parties, but otherwise it’s first-come seating. If you want to guarantee a spot to sit, you would need to arrive very early or book a VIP area in advance. Otherwise be prepared to stand and dance – it’s a true nightclub layout with open floors.
What is the dress code and venue policy?
Laundry Bar doesn’t enforce a strict dress code, but it does have a reputation for being selective at the door. It’s best to dress in smart-casual attire (for instance, jeans and a nice shirt, not sportswear or work boots). The venue is 18+ only and checks IDs, so be sure to bring your license or passport. Inside, the policy is all about respect. Their posted rules explicitly ban any racism, sexism or harassment . Fighting or disorderly conduct will get you thrown out immediately . In short: wear something sensible, bring ID, behave well, and you’ll have a good time.
Is Laundry Bar wheelchair or disability accessible?
Accessibility is limited due to the building’s layout. The ground floor (street level) is mostly step-free once inside, and it has at least one accessible restroom. However, the second floor is only reachable by stairs – there’s no elevator. So a wheelchair user can only use the ground floor. If you require step-free entry or facilities, it’s wise to contact Laundry Bar ahead of time. The owners do emphasize an inclusive environment, but in practice the upstairs dance floor and patio aren’t accessible to mobility scooters or wheelchairs.
Are cameras and phones allowed?
Smartphone cameras are generally okay for casual photos (social media enthusiasts often snap shots of friends dancing). Just use flash sparingly so you don’t blind people. Professional cameras or bulky video rigs are usually not permitted unless you have special permission from the venue or promoters. Quick phone videos are fine, but remember to respect performers and privacy of other guests.
Does Laundry Bar serve food or have a kitchen?
No, Laundry Bar doesn’t serve full meals. It’s strictly a bar and music venue. Don’t expect any kitchen menu – at most, there may be snacks or nuts at the bar. If you think you’ll be hungry, eat before you come or grab takeout afterwards. There are many restaurants nearby where you can dine either before the show or after – Fitzroy has everything from vegetarian bistros to pizza shops just steps away.
Is Laundry Bar the same as any other Laundry Bar in Australia or overseas?
No. This Laundry Bar is the one in Fitzroy, Melbourne. It’s not affiliated with any other venue that might share a similar name (such as those in other cities). If you’re searching online, make sure you have Melbourne or Fitzroy as the location to avoid confusion.
What time should I arrive and when does the club close?
Most shows begin late by normal standards. Doors often open around 8–9pm for ticketed events, with DJs or bands starting around 10pm onward. If you have tickets or expect to pay a cover, plan to arrive close to opening time (especially on weekends) to avoid lines. Laundry Bar closes by 3am nightly (its liquor license cuts off then). Last drinks are usually served around 2:45am, so expect the party to wind down at 3am sharp. After closing, trams will likely not be running, so have a taxi or rideshare arrangements ready if you plan to stay late.
