French flair returns to Melbourne with new CBD cultural hub

The Alliance Française de Melbourne has opened a bold new chapter in its 135-year history, launching a dedicated French Hub in the heart of the CBD.

Located at 140 Bourke St, the newly designed space brings together language, culture and community under one roof. Spread across two levels, the French Hub features a 300-square-metre sunlit terrace, multipurpose event spaces, modern classrooms, a library and an immersive digital museum.

The Hub officially opened to the public on June 21 with a free family-friendly celebration inspired by the theme A Warm French Escape. Running from 12pm to 5pm, the open day featured French music, interactive cultural experiences and winter market-style treats.

“This is more than just a new address – it’s a renewed vision for our community,” Alliance Française de Melbourne board president Myriam Boisbouvier-Wylie said. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Melburnians to our new home – a warm, inclusive space to learn, connect and celebrate all things French.”

The open day saw the rooftop terrace transformed into a bustling French winter wonderland, with visitors enjoying raclette, mulled wine, crepes, and freshly baked croissants from Noisette, paired with preserves from Bonne Maman.

A croissant bar, and live music from French and New Caledonian performers created a festive atmosphere, while inside the Hub, free beginner French classes gave newcomers a taste of the language.

Founded in 1890, Alliance Française de Melbourne is Australia’s oldest French language and cultural organisation. It was previously based in a grand heritage mansion in St Kilda for nearly a century before relocating to temporary office spaces after the property’s sale.

The opening of the French Hub marks the organisation’s return to a permanent home, this time right in the centre of Melbourne, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to community engagement and cross-cultural exchange.

“This space was designed with connection in mind,” Mme Boisbouvier-Wylie said. “Whether you’re a fluent speaker or just curious about French culture, there’s something here for everyone.”

The new space was officially unveiled on June 19, with the Ambassador of France to Australia Pierre-André Imbert, the Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks, Lord Mayor of Melbourne Nick Reece and other dignitaries in attendance.

Supported by the Victorian Government, the French Hub is poised to become a vibrant year-round destination for Francophiles, language learners, and cultural explorers alike. •