Wide streets and established trees give West Melbourne a distinct inner-urban feel. Workers cottages, factories and apartment buildings stand side by side, within easy reach of the central city.
West Melbourne sits on the lands of Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples of the Eastern Kulin. The area is rich with Aboriginal heritage and continuing cultural significance. Explore the area at Mapping Aboriginal Melbourne.
It is shaped by three waterways: the Maribyrnong River, the Birrarung (Yarra), and Moonee Ponds Creek.
Most of the suburb’s 8263 residents live close to Flagstaff Gardens, a glorious part of the green belt that encircles Melbourne.
Sprawling Moreton Bay figs, avenues of elm trees and flashes of jacaranda are among the highlights of having the Flagstaff Gardens as your local parkland.
Increasingly, West Melbourne is popular among students, young professional couples and downsizers. More than 80 per cent of local residents live in apartments.
Many creative spaces and studios welcome artists and independent enterprises.
The neighbourhood is also known for the Islamic Council of Victoria on Jeffcott Street, the peak body representing an estimated 200,000 Victorian Muslims.
The historic and industrial character of West Melbourne is highly valued by the community and has the potential for much creative re-use.
The western section of this area features railway lines, container yards, shipping docks and industrial warehouses.
East of Railway Place has become a dynamic mixed-use residential area, with a strong sense of community, a diverse mix of businesses and a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
By 2040, West Melbourne is predicted to house 9000 additional residents and generate more than 7,000 new jobs.
The West Melbourne Structure Plan and proposed Planning Scheme Amendment C385 sets out a vision for the evolution of the neighbourhood, focusing on Spencer Street as a social and dining hub.
We’re working with neighbouring councils to revitalise Moonee Ponds Creek and the Maribyrnong waterfront.
The Victorian Government leads a project constructing the West Gate Tunnel, with elevated roads creating a second freeway connection between the city and Melbourne metro’s west.
Get to know the area through the West Melbourne Neighbourhood Portal.
What matters to you in your local community? A neighbourhood Future Melbourne Committee meeting was held on Tuesday 21 March 2023, with a focus on West Melbourne. Watch on demand.
