Looking for a dynamic, engaging and energetic host for your next event?

What does a corporate event emcee in Australia actually do?

I see a good emcee as being the ‘glue’ that holds the whole event together. We welcome the audience, introducing speakers, managing transitions, keeping the energy up, and making sure everything runs to time. A professional MC will read the room constantly, adjusting as needed, and making the whole thing feel smooth and effortless (even when the event planners are running around like headless chickens!). It’s like the design of a website or a building – when it’s good, it just works. But when it’s bad, people feel frustrated, annoyed…and then they leave. 

Can’t I just ask my boss / talkative colleague to be the MC? It can’t be that difficult, surely!

You can, and I’ve met clients who did this “at last year’s event” – only to regret their decision later. I’ve heard horror stories of the team member who made it all about himself, the over-confident colleague who commented on body shapes and offended everyone, and the guy who rocked up to a “cocktail night” dressed as a prawn. Think of it this way – you’re spending an insane amount of time, effort and money putting on this event. Don’t ruin the whole thing with a bad MC. Your outgoing friend might be brilliant at dinner parties. A 300-person industry awards night is a completely different sport. 

What’s the difference between an MC, a facilitator and a moderator?

In short: an MC owns the energy and flow of the entire event. They’re the host, the ‘glue’, the person who sets the tone from start to finish. A facilitator guides a group through a specific process or activity, usually in a workshop or breakout setting. A moderator manages a panel or Q&A, making sure all voices are heard and the conversation stays on track. Your event may need one or all of these skills at different points throughout the day. If you want a full explanation with examples, check out my blog post / podcast episode: How to Emcee, Moderate and Facilitate.

How far in advance should I book an MC?

For major events such as  conferences, awards nights and gala dinners, I’d recommend booking at least 3 to 6 months out, especially if your event falls in the busy season between September and December. That said, I know it’s not always possible to be that organised! If you have a last-minute requirement, get in touch anyway (I once hosted a live webinar when the original facilitator got Covid – with 2 hours notice!) 

Can I see a video of you hosting a real event?

Absolutely — scroll up. You’ll find highlight reels from two recent events I’ve hosted, including a national awards night for the Urban Development Institute of Australia with an audience of 650 people, and the WISE Employment annual staff conference with 900 people. If you’d like to see more, feel free to ask when we chat — I’m happy to share additional footage depending on your event type.

What happens if a speaker runs over time or drops out last minute?

This happens all the time, and it’s exactly why preparation matters. Before the event, I work with you to agree on how we might respectfully wrap up segments that run over time. If a speaker drops out last minute, I work with your event team to restructure the run sheet on the spot and can fill time naturally with audience interaction, extended Q&A, or panel-style conversation. 

Do you help with scripting and run sheets?

Yes! This is part of the package. I can work closely with you and your event team to build out the run sheet, work out the transitions, suggest games and other audience engagement activities, and make sure the flow makes sense. I usually prepare my own welcome remarks, Acknowledgment to Country and speaker introductions so they sound authentic to me, but I also take on my clients’ feedback to ensure they are aligned with the tone of the event.

What is your MC style — are you formal or casual?

My natural MC style is warm, energetic and genuinely fun. I bring personality and colour to every event while always keeping the focus on your audience and your speakers. As for formal versus casual, I can be flexible based on your audience and event needs. A black-tie gala, for example, is going to have a different vibe than a high-energy team celebration, and I’m comfortable across the full spectrum. I’m particularly experienced hosting events where inclusion and psychological safety matter, such as women’s leadership conferences, industry awards nights, and company-wide events where you need every person in the room to feel seen and welcome.

How much do you charge for your corporate MC work in Australia?

My fees vary depending on the event, and take into account the duration, format, location, and level of preparation. Every event is different, so the best thing to do is get in touch and we can have a quick chat about your event. Then I can give you an accurate quote 🙂 

Are you available to travel interstate?

Yes! While I’m based in Melbourne, I work with clients across Australia and am available to travel for the right event. Interstate travel requirements are factored into the quote, so just mention your location and event details when you get in touch.

Do you work with anxious or first-time speakers?

This is actually one of my favourite parts of the job. With over 10 years experience in communication and public speaking coaching and training, I’m well placed to support speakers who are nervous, inexperienced, or presenting for the first time. In the lead-up to your event I can support your speakers with presentation structure and preparation coaching. On the day, I often do grounding exercises and quick confidence boosting exercises to help your speakers be their best selves on the stage.