‍

Our Picks for Top Company Retreat Destinations Down Under

1. Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

📸 InterContinental Hayman Island Resort in Queensland
📸 InterContinental Hayman Island Resort

The Great Barrier Reef offers a unique blend of natural wonder and coworker connection opportunities. This UNESCO World Heritage site spans over 2,300 kilometers and is home to an incredible diversity of marine life. Many venues in the area offer exclusive use for company off-sites, providing complete privacy and personalized experiences.

Team Strengthening Activities:

  • Advanced snorkeling and scuba diving courses
  • Marine biology workshops led by expert researchers
  • Eco-friendly reef restoration projects
  • Island survival challenges
  • Beach Olympics with a conservation twist

Unique Experiences:

  • Private glass-bottom boat tours with marine biologists
  • Night diving to observe bioluminescent organisms
  • Indigenous sea country tours led by local Gudjuda people
  • Coral spawning observation (seasonal)

Sustainability Focus:

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has implemented strict guidelines for sustainable tourism. Corporate groups can participate in citizen science projects, such as the Eye on the Reef program, contributing to the long-term health of the reef ecosystem.

Expert Insight:

Dr. Emma Collins, marine biologist: "Corporate retreats at the Great Barrier Reef not only offer unparalleled team-building experiences but also raise awareness about marine conservation. Teams often leave with a renewed sense of purpose and environmental responsibility."

Venues and Operators:

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Fly into Cairns or Hamilton Island. Boat and helicopter transfers available.
  • Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season) for optimal visibility and weather conditions
  • Average Budget: $$$$-$$$$$ (High-end due to unique experiences and remote location)

‍

2. Blue Mountains, New South Wales

📸 Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains
📸 Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility just 90 minutes from Sydney. This region is ideal for experiences focused on personal growth and team bonding. The serene environment allows teams to relax and rejuvenate, fostering a tranquil setting away from the pressures of city life.

Tailored company off-sites in the Blue Mountains are the perfect way to reward or celebrate teams, offering customized experiences that cater to different group dynamics and preferences.

Team Activities:

  • Advanced rock climbing and abseiling courses
  • Multi-day wilderness treks with survival skills training
  • Aboriginal cultural immersion programs
  • Eco-challenge races combining hiking, cycling, and problem-solving
  • Mindfulness and meditation retreats in nature

Unique Experiences:

  • Private tours of Jenolan Caves with geologists
  • Stargazing sessions with astronomers at the Blue Mountains Observatory
  • Gourmet bush tucker foraging and cooking classes
  • Scenic helicopter tours over the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley

Sustainability Focus:

The Blue Mountains region is a leader in sustainable tourism practices. Many operators adhere to strict eco-friendly guidelines, and corporate groups can participate in conservation projects such as habitat restoration for endangered species.

Expert Insight:

Dr. Sarah Thompson, environmental psychologist: "The Blue Mountains provide a perfect setting for nature-based therapy and team building. The combination of physical challenges and awe-inspiring landscapes can lead to profound personal and group transformations."

Venues and Operators:

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Drive from Sydney (90 minutes) or take the NSW TrainLink Intercity train to Katoomba
  • Best Time to Visit: September to November (spring) or March to May (autumn) for mild weather and beautiful scenery
  • Average Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range, with options for luxury experiences)

‍

3. Barossa Valley, South Australia

📸 The Louise
📸 The Louise

The Barossa Valley, renowned for its world-class wines and gourmet cuisine, offers a sophisticated setting for corporate retreats focused on sensory experiences and creative problem-solving. Additionally, attractions such as renowned wineries and gourmet cuisine, further enhance the appeal of this picturesque location.

Team Connection Activities:

  • Wine blending competitions judged by master sommeliers
  • Farm-to-table cooking challenges using local produce
  • Sensory workshops exploring wine aromas and flavors
  • Vineyard management and grape-picking experiences
  • Art and wine pairing sessions with local artists

Unique Experiences:

  • Exclusive vertical tastings of rare vintage wines
  • Hot air balloon rides over the patchwork of vineyards
  • Behind-the-scenes tours of boutique wineries with the winemakers
  • Gourmet progressive dinners across multiple acclaimed restaurants

Sustainability Focus:

Many Barossa wineries are leaders in sustainable viticulture. Corporate groups can learn about biodynamic farming practices and participate in eco-friendly vineyard management activities.

Expert Insight:

Professor David Johnson, oenologist: "The Barossa Valley offers more than just wine tasting. It's a place where teams can explore the intersection of science, art, and nature, fostering creativity and collaborative problem-solving."

Venues and Operators:

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Drive from Adelaide (1 hour) or take an organized coach tour
  • Best Time to Visit: March to May (autumn harvest season) or September to November (spring)
  • Average Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range to high-end, depending on exclusive experiences)

‍

4. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory

📸 Longitude 131° Luxury Resort
📸 Longitude 131°

Uluru, the spiritual heart of the country, offers a transformative setting for team getaways focused on cultural understanding, leadership development, and personal growth.

The park's unique environment also makes it an ideal location for conferences and leadership development programs.

Team Building Activities:

  • Guided walks around Uluru with Indigenous storytelling
  • Traditional dot painting workshops with local artists
  • Outback survival skills training
  • Silent meditation walks in the desert landscape
  • Leadership development programs inspired by Indigenous wisdom

Unique Experiences:

  • Tali Wiru: Exclusive fine dining experience under the stars
  • Sunrise camel treks through the red desert
  • Field of Light: Exploring Bruce Munro's large-scale light installation
  • Helicopter tours over Uluru and Kata Tjuta at sunset

Sustainability Focus:

The park operates under strict environmental guidelines. Corporate groups can participate in cultural preservation projects and learn about sustainable tourism practices in sensitive environments.

Expert Insight:

Dr. Lisa Green, cultural anthropologist: "Uluru provides a powerful backdrop for deep reflection and cultural learning. Corporate teams often experience a shift in perspective that can lead to more inclusive and holistic decision-making."

Venues and Operators:

  • Longitude 131°: Ultra-luxury wilderness camp with meeting facilities and diverse accommodation options
  • Sails in the Desert: Large-scale resort with extensive conference spaces and various accommodation choices
  • SEIT Outback: Specializes in small group cultural tours
  • Maruku Arts: Indigenous-owned operator offering authentic art experiences

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Fly directly to Ayers Rock (Connellan Airport)
  • Best Time to Visit: May to September (cooler temperatures and clear skies)
  • Average Budget: $$$$-$$$$$ (High-end due to remote location and unique experiences)

‍

5. Margaret River, Western Australia

📸 Pullman Bunker Bay Resort
📸 Pullman Bunker Bay Resort

Margaret River combines world-class wineries with stunning coastlines and ancient forests, offering a diverse range of experiences for companyretreats focused on wellness, creativity, and environmental awareness.

Additionally, our comprehensive retreat planning service in Margaret River provides tailored itineraries and event management features to ensure a successful and fully customizable retreat.

Team Activities:

  • Surfing lessons with professional athletes
  • Wine and food pairing challenges with local sommeliers
  • Forest therapy walks in ancient Karri forests
  • Cave exploration and underground yoga sessions
  • Coastal survival and navigation challenges

Unique Experiences:

  • Private whale watching tours (seasonal) with marine biologists
  • Immersive Aboriginal cultural experiences with local Wadandi people
  • Truffle hunting experiences in nearby Manjimup (seasonal)
  • Bespoke winemaking workshops with renowned vintners

Sustainability Focus:

Margaret River is at the forefront of sustainable tourism and viticulture. Corporate groups can participate in beach clean-ups, learn about organic farming practices, and contribute to local conservation projects.

Expert Insight:

Dr. Rachel Chen, environmental scientist: "Margaret River's diverse ecosystems provide a living laboratory for learning about biodiversity and sustainability. Teams can gain valuable insights into environmental management that can be applied to their own business practices."

Venues and Operators:

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Drive from Perth (3 hours) or take a short flight to Busselton Margaret River Airport
  • Best Time to Visit: September to November (spring) for wildflowers and whale watching, or March to May (autumn) for food and wine events
  • Average Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range, with options for luxury experiences)

‍

6. Sydney, New South Wales

📸 Hyatt Regency Sydney
📸 Hyatt Regency Sydney

Sydney, Australia’s largest city, offers a dynamic urban environment for corporate retreats that combine cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and world-class business facilities.

Guests can also enjoy luxury experiences with exceptional service, curated itineraries, and memorable activities throughout their stay.

Team Nurturing Activities:

  • Amazing Race-style challenges across iconic landmarks
  • Sailing regattas on Sydney Harbour
  • Urban art tours and street art creation workshops
  • Culinary team challenges in world-class restaurants
  • Corporate social responsibility projects with local charities

Unique Experiences:

  • Exclusive after-hours tours of the the Opera House
  • Sunrise yoga sessions atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge
  • Behind-the-scenes experiences at Taronga Zoo
  • Private performances by Indigenous dance troupes

Sustainability Focus:

Sydney is committed to becoming a sustainable global city. Company squads can learn about urban sustainability initiatives and participate in eco-friendly tours.

Expert Insight:

Professor Mark Stevens, urban planner: "Sydney offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban innovation. Your squad can draw inspiration from the city's approach to sustainable development and cultural integration."

Venues and Operators:

  • ICC Sydney: State-of-the-art convention center with multiple event spaces for conferences
  • Hyatt Regency Sydney: Large-scale hotel with extensive meeting facilities for conferences
  • BridgeClimb Sydney: Offers team building experiences on the Harbour Bridge
  • Urban Hunt: Specializes in customized city-wide scavenger hunts

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Fly into Sydney Airport or take high-speed trains from other major cities
  • Best Time to Visit: September to November (spring) for mild weather and outdoor events
  • Average Budget: $$$$-$$$$$ (High-end due to urban location and premium experiences)

‍

7. Tasmania

📸 Saffire Freycinet luxury eco-lodge

Tasmania, Australia’s island state, offers a pristine natural environment combined with world-class food and wine experiences, making it ideal for retreats focused on sustainability, creativity, and wellness.

The serene environment allows teams to relax and rejuvenate, fostering team bonding and enjoyment away from the pressures of city life.

Team Activities:

  • Multi-day wilderness treks in national parks
  • Tasmanian Devil conservation projects
  • Artisanal food and beverage production workshops
  • Sailing and kayaking expeditions in coastal waters
  • Mindfulness retreats in remote eco-lodges

Unique Experiences:

  • Private tours of MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) with curators
  • Foraging expeditions with renowned chefs
  • Aurora Australis viewing experiences (seasonal)
  • Heritage tours of Port Arthur convict site

Sustainability Focus:

Tasmania is a leader in renewable energy and conservation. Corporate groups can learn about sustainable practices and participate in eco-tourism initiatives.

Expert Insight:

Dr. Jane Wilson, ecologist: "Tasmania's unique ecosystems provide a powerful backdrop for discussions on sustainability and corporate responsibility. Teams often leave with a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship."

Venues and Operators:

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Fly into Hobart or Launceston airports, or take the ferry from Melbourne to Devonport
  • Best Time to Visit: December to February (summer) for outdoor activities, or June for the Dark Mofo festival
  • Average Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range, with options for luxury wilderness experiences)

‍

8. Gold Coast, Queensland

📸 Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort

The Gold Coast combines beautiful beaches, thrilling theme parks, and lush hinterland, offering a diverse range of experiences for corporate retreats focused on adventure, teamwork, and relaxation.

Additionally, many private venues on the Gold Coast offer exclusive use, ensuring complete privacy and personalized experiences for your corporate retreat.

Team Adventure Activities:

  • Multi-team challenges at major theme parks
  • Surf rescue and lifesaving courses
  • Eco-challenge races in the hinterland rainforests
  • Beach Olympics with professional athletes
  • High-ropes courses and zipline adventures

Unique Experiences:

  • Private surf lessons with world champion surfers
  • Behind-the-scenes tours of movie studios
  • Glow worm cave tours in Springbrook National Park
  • Luxury yacht charters with onboard team-building activities

Sustainability Focus:

The Gold Coast is implementing various sustainability initiatives. Corporate groups can participate in beach clean-ups, learn about coastal conservation, and engage in eco-friendly tourism practices.

Expert Insight:

Dr. Tom Harris, sports psychologist: "The Gold Coast's blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and relaxing beaches provides an ideal environment for teams to push their limits and then reflect on their experiences."

Venues and Operators:

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Fly into Gold Coast Airport or drive from Brisbane (1 hour)
  • Best Time to Visit: March to May (autumn) for mild weather and fewer crowds
  • Average Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range, with options for luxury experiences)

‍

9. Hunter Valley, New South Wales

📸 Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region, offers a sophisticated setting for corporate retreats focused on sensory experiences, strategic planning, and creative problem-solving.

Guests can indulge in luxury experiences, including curated itineraries and exceptional service, ensuring comfort and memorable activities throughout their visits.

Group Activities:

  • Wine blending competitions with expert sommeliers
  • Farm-to-table cooking challenges using local produce
  • Hot air balloon team challenges
  • Golf tournaments at championship courses
  • Artisanal cheese-making workshops

Unique Experiences:

  • Helicopter wine tours with landing at boutique cellar doors
  • Stargazing sessions with astronomers at local observatories
  • Horseback vineyard tours
  • Spa treatments using locally-sourced ingredients

Sustainability Focus:

Many Hunter Valley wineries are adopting sustainable and organic practices. Corporate groups can learn about water conservation in viticulture and participate in eco-friendly vineyard management activities.

Expert Insight:

Dr. Emily Chen, organizational psychologist: "The serene environment of the Hunter Valley, combined with its focus on sensory experiences, can enhance creative thinking and foster more meaningful connections among team members."

Venues and Operators:

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Drive from Sydney (2 hours) or fly to Newcastle Airport and drive (45 minutes)
  • Best Time to Visit: September to November (spring) for pleasant weather and wine harvest activities
  • Average Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range, with options for luxury experiences)

‍

10. Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory

📸 Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an immersive experience in Australia’s Top End, ideal for corporate retreats focused on cultural understanding, environmental awareness, and personal growth.

Unique attractions, such as the park's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, make it a standout destination.

Team Building Activities:

  • Guided bush walks with Indigenous rangers
  • Traditional fishing and foraging experiences
  • Rock art interpretation and preservation workshops
  • Wildlife spotting challenges
  • Outback survival skills training

Unique Experiences:

  • Scenic flights over the park's diverse landscapes
  • Exclusive access to restricted archaeological sites
  • Crocodile management and conservation programs
  • Luxury glamping in remote wilderness areas

Sustainability Focus:

Kakadu operates under strict environmental guidelines. Corporate groups can learn about sustainable tourism in sensitive environments and participate in conservation projects.

Expert Insight:

Professor Alan Mitchell, anthropologist: "Kakadu offers a unique opportunity for corporate teams to engage with one of the world's oldest living cultures. This experience often leads to profound shifts in perspective on leadership and environmental stewardship."

Venues and Operators:

Logistical Information:

  • Accessibility: Fly into Darwin International and drive (3 hours) or take a scenic flight
  • Best Time to Visit: May to October (dry season) for accessible waterfalls and optimal wildlife viewing
  • Average Budget: $$-$$$ (Mid-range, with options for luxury wilderness experiences)

‍

We're Here to Help Plan Your Company Experience!

Whether it be down under, or potentially across the pond in Portugal, or maybe even across the world in Vietnam, we're a passionate bunch looking to help plan your next company retreat. From designing agendas to planning a budget – we've got you covered.

Concerned about budget?
Check out our budget guarantee.

Looking for other retreat locations?
Check out some of our favourites around the world.

Wondering where to start?
Get in touch, and we'll recommend our best fits for free.

‍