Underland FAQ's

What is Underland?

Underland is an annual gathering based on the 10 Principles of Burning Man. At Underland you will find art installations, musical performances, workshops, and all kinds of fun and interesting activities! 

Where is Underland?

Underland is held approximately 3 hours west of Melbourne.

Can I volunteer?

Underland is a participatory event. This means that everyone contributes in some way, whether that is a year-round, behind-the-scenes role; working in a health and safety team; or creating beautiful art (or in so many other ways). Everyone also contributes financially to ensure that the event can actually happen. We all play, we all pay. 

Check out our Join a Crew and Lead a Team pages for all role information and to submit an EOI or email crew@commonarts.org.au with any questions.

When is the next Underland?

Underland 2026 will be held from 24th - 28th September.

How big is Underland? 

We are expecting approximately 700 people at Underland 2026.

What to bring? 

You need to bring everything that you need to survive for four nights in the Australian bush. Apart from ice, there is nothing available to purchase. - Check out our Survival Guide 

What not to bring? 

One of the Burning Man principals is Leave No Trace, so we try not to bring materials that can become Matter Out of Place (MOOP). So please leave costumes with sequins, messy rugs that shed fibres and the many other man-made things (and vegetable scraps) that can escape into the environment and lead us to not being invited back to that site.

How do I get tickets?

You first need to sign up as a member of Common Arts Victoria aka CAV (the organisation that runs the event). Once tickets are released (in July each year) all members receive an email with a link and a unique code to purchase one ticket. 

Why do I need to join CAV to get a ticket? 

Underland is not a commercial event and is instead focused on participation and community building. Becoming a member is a way to recognise you are joining a community, not just coming to an event. 

Can I camp at Underland?

Yes! In fact it is the only way to attend!

Can I bring my children?

The art and vibrancy of Underland mean that children often have a great time at Underland!  However, there are some events, workshops and participant behaviour that might make some parents uncomfortable. Parents need to make their own choices about what they are comfortable exposing their children to. The ‘What Where When’ guide can help you work any events that might not be suitable for children. You can also check out the 'Survival Guide' for tips on bringing children to Underland. 

I can no longer attend. What happens to my ticket?

Your name must match your ID on presentation to gate to receive entry, no name changes are permitted. If you are no longer able to attend Underland and would like to apply for a refund please email - tickets@commonarts.org.au 

Are art grants available? 

Yes! Currently you can apply for Ignition grants (close 14/8/26) & Self-funded art placement (close 1/9/26) Unfortunately small and large art grant applications for Underland 2026 are now closed. But it's never too early to start thinking about what you can bring to Underland 2027! Check out all the information about Grants at our Artery page

Can I bring a sound system? 

Yes! Anyone bringing a sound system needs to read and agree to our sound policy

Quiet Times For Underland 2026 

Friday 2am - 11am


Saturday 6am - 11am


Sunday 6am - 11am


All music off 2am Monday





Can I bring an art car? 

Yes! Please email us first to ensure your vehicle is safe! feedback@commonarts.org.au

I’ve got a great idea! How do I make that happen? 

Send us an email at crew@commonarts.org.au describing what you would like to do and we can put you in touch with the right people. 

How long will my CAV membership take to be approved?

From October - June (our down time), applications are approved monthly. Over July to early September they are approved weekly (generally on a Tuesday). In the weeks leading up to the event, we approve memberships twice per week, and in the final few days memberships are approved daily. The last day we accept membership applications is the Wednesday before gates open.