End-of-Year Dinner Venue in Perth: What You Should Ask Before You Book

It’s that time of year again. The emails are flying, the calendar’s filling fast, and someone just asked, “So… have we booked the end of year dinner venue yet?”

If you’re the lucky one in charge of organising the end of year dinner in Perth, you already know how tricky it can be. Between finding a space that actually fits your team, checking menus, juggling budgets, and locking in dates before everyone else does; it can feel like a full-time job!

The good news? You don’t have to stress. This guide will walk you through exactly what to ask before you book your end of year dinner venue in Perth; from hidden costs and catering options to setup times, parking, and all those tiny details that make a big difference.

Keep reading… this quick checklist might just save your night (and your sanity).

Top 20 Questions to Ask Before Booking Your End of Year Dinner Venue in Perth

Ask these 20 questions out loud when you call or email a venue. We present them below as a numbered checklist with concise answers. For convenience, you can also download the full checklist as a PDF for quick reference.

1. Is my preferred date available? How long will you hold a tentative booking before deposit?

First confirm your date is free. If so, ask how long they’ll hold it on a “soft” basis before requiring a deposit. Many venues allow a short hold (1–2 weeks) while you firm up plans, but won’t guarantee the date indefinitely without a deposit. So, clarify exactly when a deposit is needed to lock in your date.

2. What is the venue’s maximum & minimum capacity for sit-down dinner vs. cocktail?

Venues usually list different capacities for formal (sit-down) dinners and cocktail-style events. A seated dinner needs more space per guest, while a standing reception can fit more people. Ask for both the maximum and minimum guest counts for each format.

3. What happens if fewer guests show than booked?

Find out how headcount changes are handled. Most venues require a final guarantee (final attendee count) by a certain deadline. If you end up with fewer guests than guaranteed, some venues will charge for the higher guaranteed number or enforce a minimum spend. Ask how reductions are applied.

4. Do you provide in-house catering, or can we bring external caterers?

Some venues have an in-house kitchen and may require you to use their catering (often with set menus), while others allow you to bring in your own caterer. Clarify both possibilities.

For example, Salute Function Centre provides in-house Italian-style catering by Chef Egidio (no outside caterer needed). If you prefer external food, make sure the venue permits it and ask about any service or cake-cutting fees that might apply.

5. Can you provide sample menus and pricing per person?

Seeing example menus helps set expectations on cuisine and cost. Request sample menus and a per-head pricing guide. Menus can often be customised for dietary needs. For instance, Salute’s event menus are crafted by Chef Egidio and can be previewed with tastings. Knowing the menu options and prices up front makes budgeting easier and avoids surprises.

6. What is included in the venue hire cost?

Always get a full breakdown of inclusions. Don’t assume anything. Ask if tables, chairs, cutlery, glassware, linen and service staff are covered by the rental fee. Also check about AV gear: microphones, projectors, speakers and screens are often extra.

For example, Salute’s Perth hire package includes comfortable seating, a dedicated stage, and AV setup with mics and screens. Confirming exactly what’s in the quote prevents nasty add-ons later.

7. What payment terms & deposit schedule apply?

Clarify deposit amounts and deadlines. Most venues require a deposit to secure the date – usually 25–50% of total cost. Ask when that deposit is due and what the final payment deadline is (often several weeks before the event).

8. Are drinks included or is there an in-house bar / corkage policy?

Alcohol can be a big cost, so clarify the bar situation. Does the quote include any drinks or a drink package? If not, do they have an in-house bar? If you want to bring wine or beer in yourself, ask about corkage fees.

Some venues only allow in-house alcohol service or charge high corkage.

As Salute highlights, they have a fully-stocked in-house bar, so you don’t need outside drinks. Knowing the bar/corkage policy helps avoid last-minute price shocks.

9. What AV and microphone/sound setup is included? Any extra costs?

If you need a sound system or screens, ask exactly what’s provided. Some venues include a basic PA and mic; others charge per item. Confirm if microphones, speakers, projectors and screens are part of the venue fee or will cost extra.

For example, Salute’s venue hire includes AV equipment and microphones. If your event requires special audio-visual gear, clarify it now to budget for any rentals.

10. What are the setup and pack-down times? Is overtime charged?

Find out your access hours. Ask when you (and your vendors) can arrive to set up decor, AV, etc., and by what time you must clear out. Some venues include generous setup/pack-down time. Others only allow a short window.

Also ask about overtime fees if you need to run late. This avoids the embarrassing moment when the party is winding down early or incurring penalties.

11. Will the venue provide photos or a video walkthrough, or can we schedule a site visit?

Seeing the venue in advance is invaluable. Ask if they have a photo gallery or virtual tour. Even better, schedule an in-person venue visit. Walk through the space. Check the flow, lighting and ambiance. Use the visit to imagine table layouts and spot any issues. If a visit isn’t immediately possible, insist on any photos or floor images they can share.

12. Is there on-site parking? How many spaces are available?

Guest convenience is key, so don’t overlook parking. Ask if there is onsite parking, how many spaces and whether it’s free. You don’t want guests circling blocks or paying a fee.

Salute solves this worry by offering 200 free parking spaces on the property. Enough parking means less stress for everyone arriving at your event.

13. Do you have floor plans and sample seating chart?

A floor plan or seating chart helps you plan. Many venues can provide a printable layout or diagram. This lets you map out table placement, dance floor, stage, etc. If they don’t have one ready, ask if they’ll sketch a layout for your expected numbers. A clear plan prevents bottlenecks and ensures the space is used wisely.

14. What is your cancellation & refund policy? What’s your reschedule policy if plans change?

Life happens, so know the cancellation terms. Ask what notice you must give for refunds or credit. Remember that deposits are usually non-refundable. Find out if any portion can be returned if you cancel far in advance, or if you can transfer your deposit to a new date.

Also ask about rescheduling flexibility. Some venues allow a one-time date change for a fee or no fee if done early enough.

15. Do you require liability insurance or bookings to have event insurance?

Many venues require proof of insurance to protect against accidents. Ask if they insist on public liability/event insurance. Some won’t host events without it. Even if not mandatory, it’s wise. Many insurers offer “special event” policies.

At a minimum, discuss who is responsible for any damage or injury liability.

16. Is there a food & beverage minimum and what happens if we miss it?

Some venues impose a minimum spend on food and drinks. Ask if yours does. A F&B minimum means you commit to spending at least a certain amount on catering/bar. If your actual spending falls short, you usually pay the difference. Clarify what counts towards the minimum (food only? drinks? taxes? service fees?) and the penalty for not meeting it.

17. Are there restrictions around outdoor areas (smoking, food & drinks, music)?

Outdoor spaces are great, but have rules. In WA, smoking is banned in outdoor dining areas by law (unless the venue designates a smoking zone).

Ask if the venue has a covered patio or garden and what activities are allowed. Can you have candles or open flames outside? Are there limits on the type of music or speakers outdoors? Understanding these restrictions up front avoids surprises.

18. Are there noise curfews, council limits or alcohol restrictions?

Local rules may force you to end music or drinks early. In Perth, many councils require outdoor music to stop by around 10pm. For example, a Fremantle concert was cut just after 10pm in line with the venue’s noise curfew.

Ask the venue’s last call time for alcohol and if there’s a legal noise cutoff. Also check if any licensing rules apply. Planning around curfews ensures your event won’t be abruptly shut down.

19. Can we bring in external entertainment / DJ / band? Any restrictions?

If you want your own DJ or band, ask if outside performers are allowed. Some venues have in-house entertainers or limit outside ones (perhaps requiring sound checks or certain decibel levels). Check if performers need their own insurance or if there are extra fees.

Ensure they know about any noise limits or stage space constraints. If the venue offers its own DJ or band, see what their rates are.

20. Do you offer event coordination or an on-the-day manager? (If yes, scope?)

Finally, ask what help they provide on the day. Many venues include an event coordinator or manager who oversees setup and timing.

Salute Function Centre, for example, provides free event coordination. Our team handles every detail so you don’t have to stress.

If there’s no in-house coordinator, ask if you can hire one through them, or if their staff will assist with timing, vendor liaison and final details. Clear roles here help your event run smoothly.

Prefer an at-a-glance list? Download the free PDF checklist below to have these 20 questions and answers handy when you call venues. It’s a convenient way to make sure nothing slips through the cracks as you finalise your year-end dinner venue.

Download End-of-Year Venue Hire Checklist Now

Sample Menus & Packages from Chef Egidio – Tailored for Your End-Of-Year Dinner

Explore three chef-curated packages below, created for an end of year celebration in Perth. These sample menus help you compare service styles, plan budgets and prepare for dietary needs.

Package A – Cocktail Reception (20–80 guests)

A stylish, relaxed option for your EOFY party venue: passed canapés, grazing stations, a mingle-friendly vibe

Sample canapé list: zucchini flower fritters; seared prawn on crostini; mini beef slider; roasted pumpkin tartlet; sage & manchego arancini.

Price band: $50 – $185+ per person.

Smaller groups or shorter durations sit at the lower end; premium items, seafood or full drink packages push toward the top. Together with a standout dinner venue in Perth like Salute Function Centre, this is perfect for informal gatherings or team-dinner events wanting flair without a formal sit-down.

Package B – Buffet / Shared Feast (50–200 guests)

Ideal for more relaxed, vibrant gatherings. Plenty of variety and freedom, suited for many modern party venues Perth setups.

Sample mains & sides: slow-roasted beef with jus; lemon pepper barramundi; roasted root veg medley; charred broccolini; truffled potato gratin; seasonal salad; dessert station.

Price band: $50 – $120+ per person.

The lower end suits simpler buffet fare; the higher end includes chef-stations, premium produce, and top styling. When looking for the right event space for a large group, this shared-feast style balances value and experience.

Package C – Formal 3-Course Sit-Down (50–150 guests)

For a polished, elegant corporate dinner or refined Christmas dinner venue feel. Each guest enjoys a plated entrée, main and dessert. Perfect for formal awards nights and signature year-end celebrations.

Sample menu:

• Entrée – Insalata Caprese (V): Fresh mozzarella layered with ripe tomatoes and basil, finished with balsamic glaze and extra-virgin olive oil. A light and colourful start that feels like summer in Italy.
• Main – Beef Fillet: Grilled to perfection and served with a rich red-wine sauce, roasted potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. Tender, elegant, and deeply satisfying — a favourite for corporate dinners in Perth.
• Dessert – Tiramisu: Chef Egidio’s signature classic: espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa dusting — a sweet finale to a sophisticated celebration.

Price band: $85 – $220+ per person.

Many Perth private dining Perth venues offer this style in the $100+ range; the higher end reflects premium ingredients, matched wines and top service. Salute’s banquet hall and function rooms are designed for this calibre of event.

Note: Pricing bands are indicative and can vary depending on guest count, date (peak December and public holidays cost more), drink inclusions, service levels and venue location.

View FULL Menu Here

Contract Red Flags & How to Avoid Venue Booking Scams

Watch for vague inclusions, unusually large non-refundable deposits, unclear cancellation policies and missing contracts. These are common red flags when you book an end of year dinner venue in Perth.

Top 7 RED FLAGS to watch out for

1. No written contract or only a verbal agreement — If there’s no formal written contract, you lack protection.
2. Ambiguous inclusions in the quote — Vague pricing like “venue hire + catering” without itemised details often hides extra fees.
3. Huge non-refundable deposit — If you’re required to pay most of the cost up front and it’s non-refundable, it’s risky.
4. Cancellation policy is unclear or missing — If you don’t know what happens if you cancel or reschedule, you’re vulnerable.
5. Payment schedule is aggressive — Demanding full payment months ahead with no flexibility signals trouble.
6. Vendor restrictions or hidden “preferred supplier” fees — If you’re forced to use certain caterers, DJs or decorators with extra charges, it limits your choice and increases cost.
7. History of sudden closures, license issues or unhappy clients — As one Perth user reported, “The venue cancelled my booking 11 days before the event… I wasn’t even asked to sign a contract.”

Feeling the squeeze to lock in a venue before the best dates vanish, and worried the booking might turn into a costly mess?

Book at Salute Function Centre – The Perfect End of Year Dinner Venue in Perth

Make your EOFY night effortless. At Salute Function Centre we combine chef-led menus from Chef Egidio, free event coordination, elegant Perth function rooms and 200 free parking spaces so your guests arrive relaxed and your planners stay sane.

Make it easy — Book a venue tour or request a quote and lock your preferred date today.

Book a Venue Tour / Enquire Now