Description

Once the proud headquarters of the Melbourne Tramway and Omnibus Company, this iconic building was designed in 1891 by Twentyman and Askew in a striking Venetian Gothic style. It stands as a powerful reminder of Melbourne’s bold beginnings in public transport—at the time of its construction, our tramway system was among the largest in the world. Today, Swanston Street hosts the busiest tram corridor on the planet, carrying around 200,000 people every day. And this is where the magic began 133 years ago.

By 2008, the building had fallen into disrepair. Largely vacant, non-compliant and forgotten, it was destined to become a car park or yet another hotel. That is, until the Donkey Wheel Charitable Trust stepped in. Outbidding developers and dreamers alike, the trust embarked on an ambitious journey to restore and reimagine this extraordinary place. Their vision? A centre of gravity for changemakers. A home where people and organisations working for a better world could connect, share, and grow.

Today, we honour the spirit of innovation that pulses through these double brick walls—from its tramway origins in 1891, through its rebirth in 2008, and now as it enters a renaissance era for the changemakers of tomorrow.

What's On

Join us for short heritage tours exploring the building’s architectural gems and colourful past. Peruse an art exhibition, “CONVERGENCE” by Jump Left on the Ground floor before ending the tour in our catacomb-style basement, where a further evocative art exhibition by No Fixed Gallery “Connection to Country”.

In celebration of Donkey Wheel House’s renaissance, enjoy live performances by theatre and dance collectives, grab some Filipino food at Enelssie Cafe, or sip something delicious from V Wine Salon and settle in for an experience that stirs the senses and celebrates creativity.