There is a lot to love about Melbourne - just ask the locals. This sophisticated world city in the south-east corner of mainland Australia inspires a deep passion in those who live here.
Melbourne is very much about lifestyle. It is no huge surprise to residents that their city has been ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Melburnians love the city's vibrant energy, restaurants, fashion boutiques, café-filled laneways, cool bars, unbeatable galleries, spacious parks and village-like inner suburbs, each with its own special character. Melbourne is a young city and as such it never sits still. Modern, cutting-edge designs add to the fascinating mix of heritage architecture and ensure the skyline is constantly changing.
Sometimes, the best part of visiting a new city is when you leave the tourist trail. While the big attractions can be great fun, often it’s the more subtle “insider” experiences that leave you feeling really satisfied.
For information on events, dining, shopping and much more in Melbourne, go to What's On, our website for everything to see and do in the city.
Most Liveable City 2011
In August 2011, The Economist Intelligence Unit announced its rankings of liveability for 140 cities around the world. After almost ten years, Melbourne reclaimed its number one position from Vancouver.
The yearly report assesses which locations around the world provide the best or the worst living conditions according to:
- stability
- healthcare
- culture and environment
- education
- infrastructure.
This year Melbourne edged ahead of Vienna and Vancouver to take first place and our closest Australian rival Sydney was ranked sixth best city with a score of 96.1 per cent, up from seventh place in the survey six months ago, while Perth and Adelaide remained unchanged in joint eighth place with 95.9 per cent.
To access the report in more detail visit The Economist Intelligence Unit.