Looking to join a gym in Melbourne, Australia but not sure how much it’ll cost? Don’t sweat it! Melbourne offers a wide range of gyms to fit every budget and fitness goal. In this guide, we break down budget gyms, mid-range options and premium fitness clubs, covering typical weekly/monthly prices, sign-up fees, what’s included in each membership and any student discounts or special deals. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of the cost of gym memberships in Melbourne and which type might be best for you.
1. Budget Gyms: Affordable Fitness Options
Budget gyms are perfect if you want a no-frills, low-cost way to work out. These gyms usually offer the essentials. Cardio and weight equipment, sometimes 24/7 access but without luxuries like pools or spa facilities. They tend to have lower weekly fees and flexible contracts (often no lock-in). Here are some popular budget gym options in Melbourne.
Crunch Fitness. Known for super affordable rates, with memberships starting at just $9.95 per week for basic access. Even the top “Summit” tier (which includes all classes) is about $19.95/week which is still budget-friendly. All plans are no lock-in contracts (month-to-month), and Crunch often runs promotions like “$0 enrollment” (sign-up) fees.
Membership includes the gym equipment and group fitness classes (depending on your membership level, higher tiers include unlimited classes). Crunch also allows you to bring a friend occasionally on certain plans, and they offer student discounts if you sign up in-club
Free trials (typically 3-day passes) are available so you can try before you buy.
Jetts 24/7 Fitness. Jetts is Australia’s original 24/7 budget gym chain with no lock-in contracts and a focus on convenience. In Melbourne, Jetts membership costs around $14.95 per week for unlimited 24/7 access to all of their gyms. There’s usually a one-off $79 “Club Access” fee when you join (this covers your access pass/card)
What’s included? All the standard gym equipment and often a few basic group classes or circuit sessions (varies by location), but no pool or fancy extras, this is a straightforward gym. Jetts frequently advertises $0 joining fee deals or “X weeks free” promotions around the New Year or other events, so keep an eye out. You can cancel anytime with notice since there’s no long-term contract, and they even provide a cooling-off period of 10 business days after joining in case you change your mind.
Check out a popular Jetts location.
Snap Fitness. Another popular 24/7 budget gym, Snap Fitness has independently operated clubs, so prices vary slightly by location. Monthly fees range roughly from $34.95 up to $59.95 for a single membership (which is about $8–$14 per week). Snap often offers flexible options (month-to-month or 12-month contracts). Most clubs charge a joining fee (and a key card fee), sometimes as high as around $80 total. However, Snap regularly runs promotions waiving the joining fee or giving a discounted first month. All Snap memberships include 24/7 access to any Snap gym worldwide, which is great if you travel.
What’s included? Amenities are basic: strength and cardio equipment, functional training areas, and typically no-cost introductory programs or orientations for new members. Some Snap locations offer group classes or the high-tech MYZONE heart-rate system for training feedback
Snap also provides free trial passes (often 1-day to 1-week) so you can test the facilities. Be sure to check your local club’s site for any community discounts; Snap gyms sometimes have special rates for students, healthcare workers, etc., depending on the franchise.
Plus Fitness 24/7. Plus Fitness is a low-cost gym chain found in Melbourne suburbs, with a model similar to Jetts/Snap. They advertise memberships starting around $13–$16 per week (often $15.95/week) for 24/7 access and no lock-in contract. Plus Fitness usually charges a joining fee ($99) and an access card fee, but they frequently have deals like “$0 Joining Fee” or a certain number of weeks free for new members.
Membership includes access to 200+ clubs nationwide, and some locations might offer a few classes or functional training zones. Like other budget gyms, you won’t find pools or saunas here, but you get unlimited gym access anytime. If you’re a student or senior, ask about special rates, for example, seniors have been offered discounted weekly prices (around $10.95/week for seniors in some promotions)
Plus Fitness also provides a free 7-day trial pass to experience the gym before committing.
Overall, budget gyms in Melbourne typically cost about $10–$15 per week and have minimal upfront fees (especially during promo periods). They include the basics: gym access 24/7 in many cases, standard equipment, and sometimes a few group classes or trial personal training sessions. These clubs are ideal if you want to keep costs low and don’t mind a DIY approach to fitness without extras. Just watch out for the access card fees and ensure you factor that one-time cost in. Cancellation is usually straightforward (since many are no-contract), but always double-check if there’s a required notice period (often 2–4 weeks).
2. Mid-Range Gym Options: More Amenities and Classes
Mid-range gyms in Melbourne come with a moderate jump in price but also more amenities. These are often large fitness chains or well-equipped community recreation centers. In addition to the full gym floor, mid-tier memberships usually include extensive group fitness classes (think yoga, Pilates, spin, HIIT), better equipment variety, and sometimes extras like 24/7 staffed access, swimming pools, saunas, or child-minding services. Contracts here can be month-to-month or 12+ months, and many offer nationwide access to multiple locations. Here are some notable mid-range options and their costs:
Goodlife Health Clubs. Goodlife is a big chain with over a dozen locations around Melbourne. A standard Goodlife membership starts around $20.99 per week for access to one “home” club. If you want access to all 90+ Goodlife clubs nationwide, it’s roughly $23.99/week on a standard plan. These prices typically assume you commit to a contract (e.g. 12 or 18 months). A shorter term or no-lock-in option might cost a bit more per week.
Goodlife often charges an initial admin/joining fee of about $99 when you sign up (though they run specials occasionally to reduce this). What do you get? All memberships include the fully equipped gym and unlimited group fitness classes (everything from BodyPump and cycle classes to yoga and HIIT)
Many Goodlife clubs are now 24/7 access for members, so you can swipe in after hours. Select Goodlife locations have extra facilities like swimming pools and saunas, and around 30 clubs offer “Arena Fitness” (coach-led HIIT/functional training program) at an additional cost or with higher-tier membership.
In fact, Goodlife has premium add-on programs: for example, a membership that includes Arena, Reform Pilates, and YogaBox classes starts around $35.99 (that’s a higher tier plan). Goodlife definitely caters to a broad crowd, from beginners to families, offering things like child-minding in some clubs and even seniors’ classes. For student deals, Goodlife offers 20% off for students on 3, 12, or 18-month memberships (you’ll need to show student ID when signing up)
Also, if you’re unsure, they have a free 5-day trial pass to test the facilities.
Anytime Fitness. With 500+ clubs across Australia, Anytime Fitness is hugely popular in Melbourne for its convenience. It’s a 24/7 gym like the budget franchises, but we list it as mid-range because its pricing is a bit higher and it boasts a very large network of clubs (including a strong presence in every suburb). The recommended rate in metropolitan areas is about $18.95 per week on a 12-month plan. In practice, many Melbourne members report paying around $16–$19 per week on contracts, e.g. $19/week was noted by some users for access to all clubs 24/7. When joining Anytime Fitness, expect an $99 joining fee plus roughly $79.95 for the key/access fob, which is fairly standard.
Once you’re in, that membership gives you 24/7 access to 500+ gyms nationally (after your first 30 days, you can use any club worldwide). Amenities at Anytime Fitness include the core gym gear (cardio, weights, functional training zones) and often free classes though the offerings vary by location since each franchisee might run their own class schedule.
Many clubs have personal trainers available (for a fee) and some cool extras like the Anytime Fitness app with workouts/nutrition content. Anytime Fitness offers 12 or 18-month contracts (commonly) and sometimes month-to-month. Longer commitments might get you a slightly cheaper weekly rate.
If you need to cancel early, there might be a payout or fee, so check your specific club’s terms. For flexibility, you can put your membership on hold (freeze) for a small fee if you’re away or need a break. While Anytime Fitness doesn’t widely advertise a student discount, some franchises might offer one, it’s worth asking locally. They do often have 7-day free trials so you can see if the gym’s a good fit.
Check out a popular Anytime Fitness location.
Fitness First. Fitness First has a few high-end clubs in Melbourne (though more are in Sydney). They are known for large facilities and huge class schedules. Prices vary by tier: a single-club “Home” membership starts around $21.99/week while a “Passport” membership (access to most Fitness First clubs) is about $27.99/week. Their “Platinum” membership (access to all clubs nationwide) runs closer to $32.99/week.
These rates usually assume an 18-month or 12-month contract (month-to-month might be a bit higher). Fitness First typically charges a $70 start-up fee when you join on a contract which is a bit lower than some competitors’ fees.
What’s included? All memberships come with the full range of group exercise classes – and Fitness First is known for variety, offering over 6,000 classes a week across clubs (from Les Mills favorites to freestyle functional training sessions). Many Fitness First clubs have specialized studios (for example, cycle studios, boxing areas) and even innovations like the technogym or Freestyle training zones. A couple of Fitness First locations have a pool and sauna.
They also have premium tiers in some cities (e.g. Black Label clubs in Sydney with extra luxury perks), but in Melbourne the standard clubs are typically Platinum level. Discounts: Fitness First does offer concessions for students, seniors, or families. You need to ask in-club for the current deal. They also often partner with health insurers or corporate programs for reduced rates. If you’re curious, Fitness First provides a 5-day free trial pass so you can try out the gym and classes.
One standout feature is the Passport or Platinum membership that allows you to visit any club in Australia (and even get limited visits overseas with an international passport feature), so it’s great if you move around the city or travel.
Community Recreation Centers. Many people in Melbourne turn to their local community fitness centers for a mid-priced, high-value membership.
For example, the City of Melbourne’s Active Melbourne membership gives you access to multiple facilities (like Melbourne City Baths, Carlton Baths, North Melbourne pool, etc.). This type of membership costs about $30.35 per week for adults, or a discounted $21.35/week for students (and just $16.50/week for concession holders). There is a joining fee (~$84.50) for new members.
What do you get for that price? A lot! Unlimited use of the gym, swimming pools, and group fitness classes at all participating community centers. This means you can hit the gym, take an aerobics or yoga class, and go for a swim, all under one membership. Facilities like Melbourne City Baths are quite well-equipped, you get the pool, gym, and even things like a historic atmosphere! These community gyms might not be 24/7 (they have set opening hours, e.g. 6am-10pm), but they do have the advantage of extensive amenities (for example, saunas or spa at some locations, and sports courts access).
They also tend to have a more family-friendly environment, with offerings like swim lessons, and sometimes free or cheap classes for members. If you’re a student or on a tight budget but still want a pool and classes, these memberships are a gem.
Other councils (Stonnington, Yarra, etc.) offer similar multi-site passes. Prices can vary, roughly in the $15–$25/week range depending on concession rates. One thing to note: since these are often annual memberships or direct debit plans, check the cancellation terms (usually they require a certain notice period and there might be a small cancellation fee if you end early).
Mid-range gyms generally cost about $20–$30 per week in Melbourne, with joining fees around $70–$100 unless waived. In return, you get more bang for your buck: huge variety of classes, nicer facilities (often showers, locker rooms with toiletries, maybe a café area), and sometimes specialty training zones or pools.
These gyms strike a balance between cost and experience, making them popular for people who want more than a basic gym but don’t need the luxury. Many mid-range clubs also have multi-club access, so if you live in one suburb and work in the city, for example, you can use both locations. Always ask about contract length options – committing to 12+ months can reduce your weekly fee, but if you need flexibility, choose a shorter term or pay-as-you-go plan (just remember that usually costs a few dollars more per week).
3. Premium Fitness Clubs: High-End Wellness Clubs
Premium gyms or fitness clubs in Melbourne come with the highest price tag but also a top-notch experience. These clubs often provide resort-like amenities: think luxurious facilities, swimming pools, steam rooms or saunas, towel service, premium gym equipment, extensive classes, and even spa services or wellness consultations.
They’re perfect if you see your gym as a lifestyle investment or if you love extras like boutique studio classes and pampering after your workout. In Melbourne, the premium segment is a bit smaller (we don’t have as many ultra-luxe brands as some global cities), but there are still a couple of standout options.
Virgin Active. Virgin Active is one of the most premium gym chains in the city, with a flagship club in the Melbourne CBD. A membership here costs about $59–$69 per week on a 12-month contract. They also offer a shorter 12-week commitment, but that will run a bit higher, around $69–$83/week.)It’s pricey, but let’s see what’s included. There is no joining fee at all, Virgin Active doesn’t charge one and you get unlimited access to all facilities and classes
Their clubs are like wellness centers: expect a huge range of classes (from yoga, Pilates reformer, cycle, HIIT, to even innovative offerings like anti-gravity yoga or boxing, depending on the club’s schedule), top-of-the-line cardio and weight equipment, and extras like complimentary workout towel service and spa-quality locker rooms.
The Melbourne Virgin Active (Collins Street) features things like a climbing wall and a pool. Every new member gets a free wellness or fitness consultation with a personal trainer to tailor a program for you. You also have access to Virgin Active clubs worldwide if you travel, thanks to their global network. Classes and club usage are unlimited – you can pop in just for a steam or shower if you like, or spend half a day moving from gym floor to yoga studio to sauna.
Virgin Active often has referral deals (e.g., bring a friend and get some free weeks) and sometimes seasonal promos (like “50% off until March” deals for the first few weeks), but generally, the price is the price. They compete on quality, not on being cheap. This is for those who want the full luxury gym experience. Importantly, the contract is usually 12 months, breaking it early will have conditions though they also offer a flexi month-to-month at higher weekly cost. If you’re unsure, they occasionally have short-term trial packages or you can pay for a single month (at a premium rate) to test it out.
Check out Virgin Active at Collins Street.
South Pacific Health Club. A local premium option, South Pacific Health Clubs operate several high-end gyms around Melbourne (e.g., St Kilda Sea Baths, Melbourne CBD, Collins St, Chadstone). They blend luxury with community vibes. Membership prices average around $88 per month (approximately $20–$22/week) though this can vary by location and package.
That’s actually on the lower end of premium – many members pay more for full access. For instance, South Pacific often has a $25 start-up fee promo (instead of a hefty join fee) and then standard weekly rates, which might be in the $25–$35/week range depending on if you include extras.
What sets these clubs apart is the facilities: the St Kilda club has a heated seawater swimming pool and a gorgeous view, plus specialized studios for hot yoga, reformer Pilates, and plenty of group classes (Les Mills, boxing, spin, etc). They even throw in 3 free personal training sessions for new members as a welcome gift in some promotions.
Other locations like the CBD club offer premium equipment and sometimes rooftop workout areas. Essentially, South Pacific clubs give you a full-service health club experience: pool, classes, sauna, modern machines, and often a more upscale environment than a budget or mid-range gym. The crowd might skew a bit more toward professionals and serious fitness enthusiasts.
While not as pricey as Virgin, you still get a lot of the premium perks. Contracts can be flexible; they likely offer 12-month or pay-as-you-go options. Keep an eye on their deals – they often advertise specials like reduced start-up fees or free trial periods. If you want a high-quality gym with a local brand feel, this is a solid choice.
Aside from those, Melbourne doesn’t have some of the super-elite international clubs (for example, Equinox hasn’t made its way here yet). However, within certain five-star hotels or apartment complexes, there are exclusive fitness clubs that sometimes offer memberships – these tend to be boutique and unadvertised, and costs can be in the same ballpark as Virgin Active or higher for a very private experience.
Boutique fitness studios are another “premium” route: for instance, F45 Training or OrangeTheory (though these are class-based memberships). These typically charge around $50+ per week for unlimited classes, which is comparable to a high-end gym, but they focus only on group training (no open gym for independent workouts). If you prefer that team-training environment, the cost is something to consider in your budget as well.
In summary, premium clubs in Melbourne will generally cost $50–$70+ per week. They often skip sign-up fees or include extras to add value (free PT sessions, guest passes, etc.) instead of cutting the price. The value is in the luxurious facilities and convenience: you can do all your workouts, recovery, and even socializing in one place. These clubs often have excellent member support, low crowds (due to the price keeping membership numbers controlled), and the nicest equipment. If you’re someone who lives at the gym or loves spa-like amenities after a workout, a premium membership can be worth the splurge.
Conclusion
Whether you’re pinching pennies or ready to invest in a deluxe health club, Melbourne has a gym for you. Budget gyms (around $10–15 a week) cover the basics and keep you fit without breaking the bank. Mid-range gyms (about $20–30 a week) offer a fuller experience – classes, better equipment, sometimes pools – for a moderate cost. And premium clubs ($50+ a week) deliver luxury and all-inclusive wellness under one roof.
Consider what amenities you’ll actually use: there’s no point paying for a pool and sauna if you just want to lift weights, but if yoga classes or a post-workout spa are your thing, a higher tier membership might be worth it.
When comparing prices, remember to factor in joining fees, contract length, and any discounts you can get. A gym that’s $5/week more expensive might actually be cheaper overall if it has no sign-up fee and offers student discounts, for example.
Also think about convenience – the best-value gym is one you will actually go to consistently. It might be worth paying a bit more for a location near your home or work, or one with 24/7 access if you like late-night sessions.
The good news is there’s always a deal to be found or a discount to take advantage of, so you can get the best value while working towards your fitness goals. Happy gym-hunting, and here’s to finding the perfect fit for your lifestyle (and wallet)!