Searching for the perfect spot to say "I do" with a stunning Melbourne skyline backdrop? Commonwealth Reserve in Williamstown is a highly sought-after location for couples looking for an intimate and picturesque outdoor wedding ceremony. Located right in the heart of historic Williamstown, adjacent to Gem Pier, this reserve offers a beautiful blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and spectacular city views, making it a fantastic choice for your special day.
Exchange your vows with the magnificent Melbourne skyline stretched out across the bay. The incredible view provides a truly spectacular, unforgettable backdrop for your wedding photos and ceremony.
The reserve is situated in the heart of historic Williamstown, surrounded by beautiful heritage buildings, Gem Pier, and the charming atmosphere of Nelson Place. This historic context adds a unique, romantic, and classic feel to your wedding day.
Commonwealth Reserve features a lovely rotunda—a popular spot for ceremonies—set amongst formal avenues of elm trees. The mature trees provide natural shade and a beautiful, structured setting for your guests.
Being centrally located in Williamstown means easy access to nearby cafes, bars, and restaurants for pre- or post-ceremony celebrations. It's also close to various accommodation options, making it convenient for your guests.
From the foreshore views and the city skyline to the historic architecture and the charming greenery within the reserve, Commonwealth Reserve and the surrounding area offer a wealth of diverse and beautiful locations for your wedding photography.
IF YOU ARE HAVING MORE THAN 20 People (and / or chairs and decorations) , a booking and permit is required to hold a wedding ceremony at Commonwealth Reserve, specifically for the Rotunda area, which is managed by the Hobsons Bay City Council.
To secure your preferred date and time for a wedding ceremony at Commonwealth Reserve, you must submit an application to the local council. They manage the permits and ensure that only one wedding is taking place in the booked area at your scheduled time. The maximum number of guests permitted for a wedding ceremony at Commonwealth Reserve is typically 75 people.
Authority Responsible for Booking: Hobsons Bay City Council
The Council charges a fee for the wedding permit, which covers the exclusive use of the area for the permitted time and the Council's administration costs. The fee amount can vary and is subject to change by the Council. Please consult the official application form or contact the Hobsons Bay City Council directly for the current permit fee and details on payment options (often credit card payment via the application form or in-person at the Civic Centre).
Note: You may be asked to leave and fined if a wedding ceremony is taking place without a permit.
Standard: 20 People. Add Guests: Add up to 100+ in total +$75.
You can have up to 20 people (the 2 of you and 18 guests) at your ceremony. This excludes children under 6 years old. For an additional fee of $75, this number can be increased to 100+ people in total. To add guests after your initial booking, go to the Add-ons tab in your portal.
I understand that, it is my responsibility to make the required booking with the park authority and pay any associated site fees directly to them.
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes prior to your ceremony (along with your guests) to ensure you are in the right location and ready to go at your scheduled time. Commonwealth Reserve is conveniently located in Williamstown on Nelson Place, adjacent to Gem Pier.
Here are a few ways to get there:
Drive to Williamstown, using Nelson Place as your destination. Parking: There is street parking (often ticketed/paid) available along Nelson Place and surrounding streets. At weekends, free parking is sometimes available at the Tenix car park, further along Nelson Place. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees on the day.
Take the train on the Werribee or Williamstown Line to Williamstown Beach Station or Williamstown Station. Williamstown Station is the closer of the two. From Williamstown Station, the reserve is a pleasant walk (approximately 10–15 minutes) along Nelson Place.
For a scenic and memorable arrival (especially for guests), you can take the ferry from Southbank (in the CBD) to Williamstown. The ferry docks at Gem Pier, which is right next to Commonwealth Reserve.
Check the PTV (Public Transport Victoria) website for bus routes servicing the Williamstown area. Various routes connect Williamstown with nearby suburbs and train stations, with stops close to the reserve.
Now it doesn't happen often, but when it does you will need to shelter under trees or bring umbrellas - how romantic.
Commonwealth Reserve is primarily an outdoor location. If you book the Rotunda, this offers a small amount of fixed shelter.
a) Public Park Acknowledgment
I understand that this venue is a public park and that no site fee has been charged for its use by you (the provider). This applies to only small gatherings 20 people or less and doesn’t permit chairs, decorations etc. Simple Ceremonies will provide a signing stand for you to sign your certificates.
I understand, if I am planning more than 20 people to be at the ceremony or want to have chairs or decorations of any sort, it is our responsibility to ensure this location is available for our ceremony. I will make all necessary arrangements and pay any associated fees directly to the venue or relevant authority.
a) Reservation of Location and Payment of Associated Fees
I understand that it is our responsibility to ensure this location is available for our ceremony. I will make all necessary arrangements and pay any associated fees directly to the venue or relevant authority.
b) Guest Numbers
I understand that the Standard number of people is 20. This can be increased to 100+ people for an additional fee of $75 (click on Add Ons after making your booking).
c) Standard Duration of Booking is 30 Minutes
I understand that the total time for the standard booking is 30 minutes, which is plenty of time for a beautiful ceremony. This time cannot be extended on the day of the ceremony. However, if you would like to extend the duration of your booking, this can be done prior to the date of the ceremony for an additional fee of $150. (Click on Add Ons after making your booking.)
d) Confetti and Natural Materials
I understand that to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of the area, confetti of any sort, including natural materials such as flower petals, rice, glitter, or artificial equivalents, are strictly prohibited—unless prior written consent is received from the venue.
e) Public Liability Insurance
I understand that if Public Liability confirmation is required, there will be an additional fee of $50 to provide this.
