Sanctuary; Canberra’s function venue that lives up to it’s name.

Feel the difference at Sanctuary, the moment you step inside.

Inviting open spaces with generous natural light, real timber flooring, and soft, airy furnishings. Fully customisable blank space for making memories that last long after the moment has passed.

  • Free on-site parking

  • Event furniture and tableware available to hire. DIY everything else or let us introduce you to trusted local suppliers.

Sanctuary, Canberra is an elegant blank space with the flexibility to make it your own. What’s your occasion?

Sanctuary: A truly versatile function venue that feels right whatever the occasion.

  • Private Functions

    Whatever the celebration, Sanctuary is your function venue. Birthdays, family reunions, coming of age ceremonies, wakes, funerals and everything in between.

  • Intimate Weddings

    Celebrate your love with an intimate wedding that reflects your unique love story. Bring your dreams to life with DIY styling and catering or let us introduce you to trusted professionals.

  • Bridal Showers

    Celebrate the bride-to-be with a traditional kitchen tea or a modern bridal shower. Bridesmaids - we’ve got you covered.

  • Baby Showers

    Celebrate Mums-to-be in style and comfort with complimentary peacock chair hire in a spacious yet intimate venue.

  • Photography Studio Hire

    From mini shoots to seasonal specials, photographers love the natural light Sanctuary offers. Choose from studio-only or all-inclusive bookings.

  • Retreats + Classes

    Both the main hall and studio with private access are available for regular or occasional yoga, meditation, arts, and other retreats.

  • Workshops + Meetings

    Bring the team together and connect while you unplug or sell seats to your next workshop or training session. Sanctuary’s flexibility makes working a pleasure.

  • Retail Pop Ups + Markets

    Looking for a space that reflects the quality of your business, but for just a few days? We’ve got you covered.

Enquire Here

Sanctuary, Canberra – A history of hosting celebrations and bringing community together

A lovingly restored church building, Sanctuary, Canberra has been hosting celebrations and bringing communities together since 2019.

Our purpose is to support local Canberran’s to create exceptional events and create memories that make a positive contribution to the local Canberra community.

A portion of the hire fee from every booking at Sanctuary is redistributed to projects that care for and empower women across Australia, especially right here in Canberra. In addition, we proudly share 10% of each hire with At Her Table, supporting its movement to uplift and connect women.

Sanctuary, Canberra is managed by Rise Events on behalf of St Aidan’s Uniting Church and the Canberra Region Presbytery of the Uniting Church Australia.

Catherine Bowyer - Happiness Hive

“I've loved using the Sanctuary for our Happiness Hive Hangouts this past year.  The space is beautiful, with a great vibe that suits our community perfectly!  The flexibility in setting up the space and the option to handle our own catering added an extra layer of convenience and customisation to our events which I really appreciated.  Lauren was wonderful to work with - friendly and professional, making the process of using the venue straightforward and easy. The Sanctuary truly lives up to its name - a welcoming space for gatherings and special events.”