About Melbourne Service Jam
48 Hours of Design, Innovation & Collaboration
Melbourne Service Jam is the local edition of the Global Service Jam - the biggest, oldest, and boldest of the global jam events. Since 2011, service jams have brought together thousands of people across hundreds of cities to explore service design through hands-on collaboration.
In March 2026, we're bringing the jam to Melbourne. Over one intense weekend, you'll join a global community of innovators tackling the same secret theme, using design thinking methods to create something new.
No prior experience needed. No idea required. Just show up with curiosity and leave with new skills, new connections, and a prototype you helped create.
The Jam Philosophy
Doing, Not Talking
The jam is about action. Less planning, more making. Learn by doing and embrace the messiness of real innovation.
Playful & Serious
We take play seriously. A playful mindset unlocks creativity and helps tackle serious challenges in new ways.
Globally Connected
Join a worldwide community. Same theme, same weekend, thousands of jammers across every continent.
Who Should Join?
Perfect for you if...
- ✓You're curious about design thinking and innovation
- ✓You enjoy collaborative problem-solving
- ✓You want to meet creative people from diverse backgrounds
- ✓You're looking for a fun, intensive learning experience
- ✓You want to try something new and step outside your comfort zone
You'll get...
- →Hands-on experience with design thinking methods
- →A working prototype you helped create
- →New connections and potential collaborators
- →Skills you can apply in your work and projects
- →An unforgettable weekend of creativity
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Global Service Jam?
Global Service Jam is a worldwide 48-hour design event where thousands of people in cities across all continents come together to create new services. Teams form, discover a secret theme, and work together to research, ideate, and prototype innovative service solutions - all within a single weekend.
Do I need design experience to participate?
Not at all! The jam welcomes everyone regardless of background or experience level. Whether you're a designer, developer, student, entrepreneur, or simply curious about innovation, you'll find a place here. The diversity of perspectives is what makes the jam so powerful.
What happens during the 48 hours?
The jam kicks off with the reveal of a secret global theme. Teams then form organically and begin exploring the challenge through user research and brainstorming. Over the weekend, you'll ideate solutions, build rapid prototypes, test with users, and present your creation to fellow jammers. It's intense, fun, and incredibly rewarding.
What should I bring?
Just bring yourself and an open mind! We provide the workspace, materials, food, and caffeine. A laptop can be useful but isn't required. The most important thing is your curiosity and willingness to collaborate with others.
Is there a cost to participate?
Registration details including any participation fees will be announced when registration opens. The jam is typically very affordable as it's a community-driven event focused on learning and collaboration rather than profit.
Ready to jam with us?
Register your interest now and we'll let you know as soon as registration opens. Join hundreds of jammers in Melbourne for an unforgettable weekend of innovation.