Melbourne

Melbourne is the capital and most populous city of the Australian state of Victoria, and the second-most populous city in Australia.

Melbourne is the capital of the Australian state of Victoria and the country's second-most populous city. It is widely regarded as Australia's cultural capital, known for its arts, sports, and multicultural character.

What it is

Melbourne is the capital and most populous city of Victoria, and the second-most populous city in Australia. The metropolitan area covers about 9,993 square kilometres and includes 31 local government areas. The inner City of Melbourne is the central business district and surrounding area.

Why it matters

Melbourne is often described as Australia's cultural capital, with a strong arts scene including theatre, music, galleries, festivals, and street art. It is also associated with the origins of Australian rules football, Australian impressionism, and Australian cinema. The city hosted the 1956 Summer Olympics and remains a major centre for national and international events.

Key details

Melbourne is located on the northern and eastern shores of Port Phillip Bay in southeastern Australia. It has a large multicultural population and was the seat of the Australian federal government from 1901 to 1927. The city's inhabitants are called Melburnians. Major events include the Australian Open, the Melbourne Cup, and the Formula One Australian Grand Prix.