It is known as a meeting place for the Labor party, and remained popular among members of the labour movement due to the Victorian Trades Hall building being across the road.

[7] The building features an upstairs 300 person capacity bandroom, and is currently home to Sonny's Fried Chicken and Burgers, serving American-style food.

[8][9] In 2020, the pub's owner Ben Russell was forced to close the bandroom and cancel all upcoming gigs due to government restrictions around the COVID-19 pandemic.

[10] In February 2022 the pub's managers announced their lease would expire in November after the owner had decided to sell the building.

[2] Beat noted The Curtin's closure and uncertain future was part of an ongoing trend in Melbourne, with many live music venues forced to close.