Melbourne’s vibrant and long standing cultural precincts are the hearts of Melbourne’s Chinese, Greek and Italian communities and are known internationally as some of the city’s most captivating and exciting areas.
The predominant strength of the three areas is dining with a cultural emphasis. The remaining business offerings are a mix of retail fashion, homewares, gift shops, music and services such as newsagents, bookstores, financial institutions and other professional services.
Chinatown
Located in the heart of the central city, Chinatown’s demonstrated strength is in dining with a mix of fashion and other retail shops, generally located in arcades off Little Bourke Street and professional services (accountants, printers, banks etc). Car parks and accommodation (3–5 star hotels and apartments) are also in abundance in Chinatown.
Businesses, service providers and retailers interested in becoming members of the Chinatown Precinct Association should contact:
Eng Lim, Hon. Secretary,
Email: cpamel@bigpond.net.au
Website: www.chinatownmelbourne.com.au
Lygon Street, Carlton
Located on the edge of the central city, Lygon Street in Carlton is often referred to as 'Little Italy', boasting a large number of Italian dining establishments. Retail (fashion, homewares, bookstores, produce) as well as professional services (banks, lawyers, accountants, architects, design companies) are located at the Elgin Street end and in laneways and neighbouring surrounds off Lygon Street.
Carlton, the surrounding suburb, is a diverse area noted for a variety of cultural, entertainment and economic activities. Traditionally Italian, like Lygon Street, the cultural, ethnic and linguistic diversity of the area’s residential population now encompasses a more diverse migrant community. Almost half of the population is under 25 due to its proximity to the University of Melbourne and RMIT. The area now could arguably be labelled a ‘student precinct’.
Businesses, service providers and retailers interested in becoming members of the Carlton Business Association should contact:
Carlo Pagano, Vice President
Email: capiccp@hotmail.com
Greek Precinct, Lonsdale Street
Despite its small geographic area, the Greek Precinct located on Lonsdale Street between Swanston and Russell streets is a destination for Greek dining as well as books, newspapers, music, travel and media servicing the Greek and local community. The Greek Community Centre on the corner of Lonsdale and Russell streets provides function space and opportunities for gatherings to celebrate Hellenism in Melbourne.
Businesses, service providers and retailers interested in becoming members of the Greek Precinct Association should contact:
Sandy Tsindos, Greek Precinct Marketing Coordinator,
Email: sandy@charleselena.com.au