Get Ahead of The Game: Your Guide to The Australian Open

The Australian Open, held in Melbourne in January each year, is one of the biggest tournaments in the world. It’s also known as the Grand Slam of Asia/Pacific due to its location and the number of top players participating in it. If you’re interested in tennis and want to know more about this exciting event, read on to learn about the Australian Open and everything that goes with it!

About The Australian Open

Australian Open tennis tournament is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments—along with the French Open (Roland Garros), Wimbledon (in London), and US Open. The tournament is held over a two-week period beginning in mid-January.

Even if you aren’t a tennis fan, it’s worth watching as few sporting events rival its sheer size or hype. It has the highest attendance of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, with 2020 hosting a record crowd of 812,174 fans. Plus, it generates an estimated $387.7 million for Victoria’s economy, according to the 2020 statistics. (victorianchamber.com.au)

Venue

The Australian Open is held at Melbourne Park. A relatively new complex, it was completed in time for play to begin in 1988. 

The complex features three main stadiums: John Cain Arena (Melbourne Arena/Hisense Arena), Margaret Court Arena, and Rod Laver Arena. All have retractable roofs for both indoor and outdoor play. The latter, Rod Laver Arena, is the second-largest indoor venue in Australia. It can seat up to 15,000 people! Plus, it’s undergoing an amazing new facelift, so you don’t want to miss out.

Overall, Melbourne Park has 39 courts (33 hard courts and 6 clay courts). (ausopen.com)

Tickets

Australian Open tickets are one of the most sought-after in the sporting arena. It’s possible to get tickets at a price lower than $100. Still, some fans prefer ticket packages offered by official ticket retailers. Though priced higher, these packages combine dining and hospitality.

Generally, ticket prices vary by

• Session (Day Sessions, Night Sessions, Twilight Sessions, and Single or Multi-Session Tickets)
• Experience Type (Ticket Only, Ticket + Dining, or Ticket + Tennis Experience)
• Event Types – Australian Open final tickets cost more)
• Booking time – the earlier you book, the more discount you get
• Arena – tickets at Rod Laver Arena tend to cost more

How To Book Australian Open Tickets

It’s best to book your Australian Open ticket online. Here’s how:

Step 1: Go to AusOpen.com

Step 2: Click on the day for which you want the tickets 

Step 3: Select the court you prefer – Rod Laver Arena, Hisense Arena, or Margaret Court & Ground Passes. Ticket prices will be listed below.

Step 4: Select ticket category 

Step 5: Select ticket quantity and pay using your credit card

Where To Stay

You can buy tickets that combine dining and hospitality. Or you can do it your way by buying a ticket only, then browse online for the best place to stay. If that sounds like you, we have a few recommendations for the best hotels and AirB&B.

Hotels

Book a room at one of the luxury hotels nearby. They’re conveniently located near Melbourne Park. Some hotels even have fitness centers that are open 24 hours a day. So you can get your workout on whenever it fits into your schedule. Here are some great options:

AirB&B

Are you looking for a great way to find affordable accommodation? Then you might want t to consider the many Airbnbs in Melbourne. The prices are low, and you can stay in an apartment or a home. Here are four Airbnb locations in Melbourne that will make your stay extra special.

Richmond 

If you’re looking to be close to the action but still get a great night’s sleep, look no further than Richmond. This neighborhood is home to some of Melbourne’s best restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. Plus, it’s only 1.7 km from Melbourne Park via Swan Street or State Route 20. So you can easily walk or bike there.

Richmond hosts some of the best Airbnbs in Melbourne. There are many great options, including

• 94 Highett – Large Luxury Inner City House
• Richmond Retreat – staycation or work-from-home
• Forest & Heaven Themed Apartment
• Warehouse loft near Epworth.

Southbank 

Southbank is a part of Melbourne that’s just as beautiful as the rest of the city. It’s home to some of Australia’s most famous attractions, including the National Gallery of Victoria. Plus, it’s just 1.8 km to Melbourne Park via State Route 20.

You can find an amazing apartment or house with a breathtaking view  right outside the city center. Some of the best Airbnbs in Southbank include

• The Platinum apartment
• Jame’s superb B&B
• City Views, Crown Casino

East Melbourne 

East Melbourne is one of the city’s most liveable suburbs. There are more ways to experience East Melbourne. These include must-see scenic spots like Royal Botanic Gardens and Federation Square. East Melbourne is 2 km from Melbourne Park via State Route 30 and Clarendon St.

There are hundreds of Airbnb listings in East Melbourne. So you won’t have to spend all day looking for somewhere to stay!

South Yarra

South Yarra is Melbourne’s most sought-after neighborhood for Airbnb rentals for a good reason. The area offers a host of quintessential Melbourne experiences—from art deco apartments and swanky boutique shops to fine dining and entertainment.

This bustling, upscale suburb is home to several tourist attractions, including the Yarra River, Fawkner Park, Toorak Road, and South Yarra Station. South Yarra is 3.8 km from Melbourne Park via Alexandra Ave.

You’ll find plenty of Airbnbs when choosing your accommodations. Plus, each one has its own unique charm, so you’ll be sure to find something that appeals to you.

Transport Options

Whether you’re going as a spectator or player, you’ll need to know how to get there and back! Here are five transport options available to take you there.

Tram

Enjoy free tram shuttle service to the Australian Open. Take Tram 70 from Flinders Street and Richmond Stations. This tram route offers stops at Rod Laver Arena and John Cain Arena.

Train 

Several train stations are available to take you to and from the Australian Open. These include Richmond, Flinders Street, and Jolimont stations – all within walking distance.

Taxi

With ample amounts of taxis available, it won’t be hard to get one. A taxicab stand is available next to The Oval on Olympic Boulevard. Not only is it close to all venues, but it’s also a safe and efficient way to hail a taxi.

Rideshare

Looking for Rideshare services, such as Uber? There are pick-up and drop-off points for Rideshare services in front of John Cain Arena on Olympic Boulevard.  

Chauffeur 

Chauffeur service is a sure way to arrive at the Australian Open in style. There are many benefits of hiring a chauffeur service for the Australian Open.

• It is a great way to avoid traffic congestion during the tournament.
• You’ll enjoy the best in luxury and comfort.
• It is a safe way to get to and from the tournament venue.
• You will have access to a private car with a driver at your disposal, which will take you wherever you need to go in Melbourne.
• Your chauffeur can help you find the best places to visit while you’re there so that you don’t have to spend all of your time in one place!

FAQs 

What are the dates of the 2023 tournament?

January 16-29, 2023. So participants will challenge trophies for about two weeks.

Is parking available for the Australian Open?

Those attending the precinct can park at the Eastern Plaza Carpark via Entrance D at the Olympic Boulevard. However, parking space is subject to availability. Hence, we recommend pre-booking, preferably the night before the event. 

The rates of pre-booked event day parking, drive-up event day parking, and non-event day parking are $20, $30, and $7.50, respectively.

If parking is sold out, don’t worry. Other parking options are available from private and public street car parks operating close to the precinct.