Overview

• The Melbourne Club, founded in 1838, has faced allegations of racial discrimination and remains all-male, rejecting efforts to diversify its membership.
• The Athenaeum Club, known for its conservative ties and history of political influence, has resisted admitting women despite waning cultural relevance and declining membership.
• The Savage Club, a bohemian haven for men since 1894, has seen membership drop and continues to exclude women, with members opposing significant changes to its traditional ethos.
• Women-only clubs like the Lyceum and Alexandra Clubs provide spaces for intellectual and cultural engagement but face their own challenges in adapting to modern expectations of inclusivity.
• Critics argue that Melbourne’s single-gender clubs are relics of the past, while defenders claim they offer unique spaces for fellowship and community.