+ I can't see single tickets, only group tickets. What's up with that?

At our straight/straightish events, we give priority to groups with differing genders. This means that if you don't want to go through our ballot system you'll need to bring at least one friend who's a different gender to yourself. We do it this way in part because we find the atmosphere to be better (less like an awkward prom night and more like a busy night at a small bar) but we've also found having a heap of guys there that have been vouched for by a woman helps us maintain a safe space.

+ Okay, I entered the ballot. Now what?

Hold tight! We start releasing tickets two weeks out from the event and will continue to release tickets until the event is sold out. If you're successful you'll get a personal access code with a time limit on it, so keep an eye out! If you get tired of waiting, maybe it's time to bribe that cute single housemate/friend/workmate/cousin to be your wingman and get yourself a group ticket.

+ What are my chances of getting a ticket in the ballot?

Your chances are around one in eight for women and one in two for men. If you're not successful this time 'round, please try again next month. The ballot is random.

+ How much are tickets if I'm successful in the ballot?

Tickets cost between $15 and $30 including booking fees. We offer a range of price points depending on your concession status and we've got cheapies for mob too.

+ Are there door sales?

We do occasionally have door spots, if we find we have an uneven number of attendees on the night or if we've had an unusual number of no-shows. If you wanna try your luck, just turn up no later than half an hour after the advertised start time and bring cash. We only advise this method if you live close by, coz we can't guarantee anything.

+ Can I just come and hang out at the bar?

We usually book venues exclusively, meaning only those who've purchased tickets can come in. We do this for the privacy of our guests. If you've bought a ticket and need to snag a second spot for a translator or support worker though, shoot us a message and we'll happily accommodate.

+ I'm younger/older than your suggested demographic. Can I still come?

Our focus is on singles in their 20s and 30s as this is our primary demographic. We consciously cater to our demo as we reckon there just aren't that many IRL dating options for young people. If you sit outside of this age bracket you can still come, however please be aware there may not be that many people you're interested in and the number of matches you get may be impacted. If you're after something different, please don't be afraid to let us know who you are and what you're looking for and if we get enough messages we'll put on an event just for you!

+ I'm transgender/non-binary. Do you get other trans/non-binary guests?

We sure do! We suggest our queer events as our most inclusive and gender diverse, you'll feel right at home. They're aimed at everyone under the LGBTQ+ umbrella and they're more like a cute social than your traditional speed dating - we don't split people by gender or sexuality. We don't tolerate transphobia at our events and will happily (discreetly) ask someone to leave if anything's reported to our hosts or to bar staff.

+ What's accessibility like?

We run our events in a whole bunch of different venues, bars, warehouses and breweries. We'll usually detail accessibility on the event page but if you have any questions just shoot us a message. We also often make special accommodations for people and do this happily!

+ I got a ticket (yay!) Now... what should I wear?

Please don't stress out about what to wear, or who to make eye contact with. Let's keep things casual. Just um.. don't wear a suit, ok?

+ How will the night work?

There'll be a half hour arrival window before we kick things off, giving you time to get a drink and get comfortable. We'll explain everything once everyone's arrived but basically you'll go on 15-25 odd dates, each 4 mins long. There'll be a break half way through, but you can also get up and go to the bar with your date(s). You won't have to exchange contact details in person and your phone number is only given out where both of you have said yes. All matches are done post-event, so there's no pressure on the night.

+ Will I date everyone?

Not usually, no. There will be between 30 and 100 people, however you'll only go on 15-25 dates (we wouldn't want you losing your voice!) There will be time before, mid-way and after the event to chat to people that you won't date though, so please don't be shy. You don't need to be sat at a table to have a nice convo. You know everyone's single and wanting to meet people, so that's half the work done!

+ Do I get free drinks for showing up?

Nah. We know some speed dating organisers bribe their guests with free drinks, but we have full confidence in the fun factor of our events so don't feel the need for bribes. Please also keep in mind, many of these other companies charge $60+ a ticket - you're essentially still paying for your drinks they're just built into the ticket price.

+ What should I talk about with my dates?

We have conversation cards on tables with all the most important first date Qs like "Does ketchup belong in the fridge or pantry?" and "What's the dirtiest thing you can say in a foreign language?" but if you're still worried you're going to end up asking "so, what do you do" twenty times, you can check out this or this or this. Remember that everyone's a bit nervous, and it's most people's first time speed dating - we're all in this together!

+ Damn, work called/I broke my leg/my cat threw up on me. Can I get a refund?

Typically, to get a refund, you must let us know at least 7 days prior to the event date. Mixed gender groups can transfer their tickets to the following month's event up until 3 hours prior to event start time, but they must be transferred as a group and not split up. However, if you are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 or awaiting test results, message us and we'll sort you out. The nature of the event means we're pretty reliant on numbers and no-shows can have a big impact, so please be conscious of this and give us as much notice as possible so we have time to replace you. We won't be able to offer you a refund if you contact us after the event.

+ Oops, I took my dating card home with me. What do I do?

No stress! Just take a photo of it and email it to dating@dearpluto.com

+ That was so much fun! How long until I get my matches?

We send matches out within 48 hours, in time for the weekend!