Living in Melbourne
The pace of living in Melbourne is ideal for both study and relaxation. More peaceful than a typical big city, Melbourne is also lively and diverse. It’s the perfect city for a young and curious mind. If you’re active and like to explore new places, you’ll love life in Melbourne.
A top performer by global standards
Live in Melbourne and you’ll live somewhere that continues to rate as one of the world’s top cities. It currently ranks 3rd according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Living Survey.
Energy from creativity
Central Melbourne is carefully planned and it’s easy to get around the regular street grid. But a creative culture flourishes in the orderly streets. It’s everywhere you look. The buzz and the energy impresses visitors from all over the world.
A graceful show of magic
It’s true that Melbourne takes some time to know. But the places that slowly reveal themselves stay with you forever. Walk around the well-preserved Victorian-era buildings or stop to watch the skyline shimmer across the river at night. Melbourne will gracefully show its very special beauty.
Diverse and welcoming
You’re sure to find your own little piece of home with things that you recognise somewhere in Melbourne. Nearly half of our population have strong ties abroad.
Fun by the water
Melbourne takes full advantage of an enviable bayside location with many lively precincts in suburbs on the water’s edge. The Yarra River runs through the heart of the city from east to west. Bridges, boats, bikes and paths criss-cross the river. It’s a popular site for social, sporting and cultural activities.
A city for young people
Young people aged 12 to 24 years make up nearly 40 percent of the population in the City of Melbourne, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The City of Melbourne has even developed special support services for international students because they’re such an important group.
Peace of mind
Police assistance is available 24 hours a day and is easy to access. There’s also a special International Student Care Service (ISCS) that provides friendly advice about all sorts of issues and support in emergency situations.
From broad plazas to narrow laneways
Locals and visitors flock to spirited gathering spots like Federation Square, the Docklands and Southbank to socialise, celebrate or simply share a mutual love for the city.
Zigzag through the city by exploring our laneways and arcades. Jump on a tram to find little suburban ‘villages’. The city is full of secrets and there’s always something new to discover.
Iconic buildings
Melbourne blends European style with modern urban flair. Gracious nineteenth century buildings sit comfortably alongside clever, contemporary structures and public spaces. Some of our heritage buildings include:
- Flinders Street train station
- Melbourne Town Hall
- the former General Post Office (the GPO)
- Shrine of Remembrance
- Royal Exhibition Buildings.
Some of our more recent urban developments include:
- Federation Square
- Southern Cross train station
- Melbourne Museum
- the Docklands precinct.
Amazing food
If you love food, then Melbourne’s the place for you. This city is undoubtedly the food capital of Australia. Choose from over 75 cuisines and more restaurants and cafes per capita than anywhere in the world.
Flexible transport
Melbourne is so easy to navigate. Travel by tram, train, bus, car, bike or on foot. You’ll get a different feel for the city depending on your choice.
All of our schools have good public transport links and are within easy travelling distance of the city. Universities have campuses in the city centre and suburbs, if you’re exploring your tertiary study options.
Secure, liveable communities
Leafy suburbs can be found in all directions and each has their own unique character. If you choose to study here, one of these suburban communities will probably become home – with a lively city centre never too far away.
A mild, pleasant climate
Melbourne’s weather brings out the best in the city. Temperatures average 14 degrees in winter and 30 degrees in summer and rainfall averages 55mm per month. Each of the four seasons shows the city in a different light. This subtle beauty and variety will make you love Melbourne more and more, the longer you’re here.
