Qantas Shuts Melbourne First Class Lounge for a Month: Here’s Why
MELBOURNE – Qantas Airways (QF) will shut its prominent First Lounge at Melbourne Airport for scheduled maintenance from October 4 to November 3, 2025. The airline has confirmed that there will be no major upgrades during this month-long closure, and the lounge will reopen as usual.
During this maintenance period, eligible passengers will be redirected to a specialized area within the Qantas International Business Lounge at Melbourne Airport.
Lounge Services During Closure
While the First Lounge is closed, those with access will enjoy a premium option that includes:
- First Class ticket holders
- Qantas Platinum members
- Platinum One frequent flyers
- Oneworld Emerald members
Although à la carte dining will still be available, spa services and natural light—typical of the First Lounge—will not be offered.
Qantas assures customers that high service standards will be maintained in this temporary space. Travelers can still expect fine dining and attentive staff, despite the different atmosphere.
Notably, the spa—one of the lounge’s highlights—will remain closed during maintenance. Additionally, the Business Lounge is said to have limited window space, contrasting the First Lounge’s usual natural light.
Passengers might also consider visiting the Emirates Lounge at Melbourne Airport as an alternative. This lounge offers comfort and fine dining, though access is limited to Emirates’ morning and evening flights to Dubai.
Qantas Future Lounge Refurbishments
The temporary closure at Melbourne is part of a larger initiative for lounge refurbishments within the Qantas network. The Gold Coast lounge will be closed from November 10 to 16, 2025, for a redesign featuring modern decor and furnishings.
Earlier this year, Qantas unveiled a new regional lounge in Broome, while also upgrading Qantas Club lounges in various regional airports, including Coffs Harbour and Tamworth. Upcoming renovations for lounges in Rockhampton, Kalgoorlie, and Karratha are set for December 2 to 10, 2025.
In addition, Qantas is working on a new international lounge at Auckland Airport, slated to open next year. However, the new Business Lounge in Sydney has faced delays, with a new expected opening date in 2027.
Travelers holding Qantas Gold, Platinum, or Platinum One status can also access the Emirates Lounge when it is open, offering a quieter ambient compared to Qantas lounges.
Final Thoughts
The temporary closure of Qantas’ First Lounge in Melbourne is primarily for routine maintenance rather than a redesign effort.
While amenities like spa services and natural sunlight will not be available during this period, premium dining and service will continue in the designated Business Lounge area.
For those looking for an alternative, the Emirates Lounge might be an appealing choice when open.
