A historical overview of the foundation of Melbourne on Kulin land and the creation and growth of the Melbourne City Council.
Melbourne began as a settlement that lacked official sanction and subsequently broke away from New South Wales. It became a great 19th century city with many parks and boulevards.
Since 1835 to today, Melbourne has taken form from a small settlement to a vibrant city.
Melbourne's population is made up of people from all over the world. Each community has contributed significantly to the city's development.
History and establishment of the Council and mayor.
History and information about the City of Melbourne coat of arms.
Historical information about how the Lord Mayor and Council is elected.
The administrative block adjoining the Town Hall, which includes the Council Chambers, was built in 1908-10.
Originally a separate development without local government representation, Docklands was incorporated into the City of Melbourne on 1 July 2007.
See more Docklands history
Well-designed roads, in particular the CBD grid, have been an important feature of the City of Melbourne from the beginning.
See more Streets and roads
The Melbourne Town Hall on Swanston Street is a magnificent heritage building and historical treasure in the heart of the city.
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There have been two permanent Grand Organs installed in the Town Hall since 1872. The original organ was extensively rebuilt in 1905. The second organ was installed in 1929 following the Town Hall fire of 1925.
See more Town Hall Organ