Melbourne after dark, the local way
Melbourne's laneways are known for their cafés, bars and street art, and a small laneway bar is hard to beat for a first meet: low light, room to talk and an easy exit if the attraction isn't there.
First drinks
In the CBD, try Caretaker's Cottage, or Lui Bar on level 55 of the Rialto on Collins Street, where the view gives nervous couples something to talk about. North of the river, Above Board in Collingwood is the pick.
Trams, not taxis
Inside the CBD you can ride the trams without touching on, and a myki card covers the rest, so meet near a stop and leave the car at home.
Clubs and party nights
Shed 16 in Seaford, about 36 km south-east of the CBD, runs couples' nights and themed parties; check its own site for current nights. In the city, the long-running Saints & Sinners Erotic Ball holds ticketed nights at Inflation on King Street a few times a year. Read up on swingers parties before your first big night.
Down the bay and out west
Frankston is 39 km down the bay and Geelong about 75 km south-west, so a weekend radius is worth stretching.