Lyla Lindsey
Melbourne is a diverse and multicultural city in southeastern mainland Australia, within the state of Victoria. It is Australia's most populous city, with a population of approximately 5 million people in 2019. Melbourne has been Australia's fastest-growing city for 15 consecutive years as of 2017, with an annual growth of approximately 50,000 people in 2003. The city's population growth is projected to decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused a net migration outflow. However, Melbourne's population is expected to reach 6.4 million by 2033-2034, and it is projected to surpass Sydney as Australia's largest city by 2031-2032.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 4.98 million as of June 2021. It is projected to reach 6.4 million by 2033-34 |
| Population growth | 125,424 between 2016 and 2017 |
| Population density | 19,000 residents per square kilometre as of 2018 |
| Cultural diversity | 4th-largest foreign-born population among world cities. Residents from 200 countries and territories, speaking over 233 languages and following 116 religious faiths |
| Aboriginal population | Over 20,000 persons (0.6% of the population) |
| Immigrant population | 10th-largest among world metropolitan areas |
| Religious demographics | 64% Christian, 20% No Religion, 12.1% Anglican, 5.9% Eastern Orthodox, 4% Uniting Church, 7.5% Buddhist, Muslim, Jewish and Hindu |
| Sikh population | 125,000 as of 2016 |
| Urban area size | 2,704 km2, the largest in Australia and 33rd largest in the world |
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What You'll Learn
Population growth
Melbourne, Australia's most populous city, has experienced significant population growth over the years, driven by various factors that have shaped the city's demographics and cultural diversity.
The city's population growth can be traced back to the 1850s Victorian gold rush, which transformed Melbourne into one of the world's largest and wealthiest metropolises. This influx of people seeking gold led to a rapid increase in the city's population, with Melbourne becoming Australia's most populous city by 1865.
In recent years, Melbourne has continued to be a centre of population growth in Australia. Between 2016 and 2017, the city added 125,424 people, surpassing 5 million residents in 2019. This growth has been attributed to several factors, including Melbourne's ability to attract international immigrants and interstate migration from other Australian cities, particularly Sydney. The city's diverse employment opportunities, cultural offerings, and more affordable housing have been key factors in attracting new residents. Additionally, Victorian Government planning initiatives, such as Postcode 3000 and Melbourne 2030, have contributed to increased population density in the inner and western suburbs by curbing urban sprawl.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Melbourne's population growth. The city experienced six lockdowns totalling 262 days, which contributed to a net outflow of migration and a slight reduction in population from 2020 to 2022. Despite this setback, Melbourne's population is projected to recover and reach 6.4 million by 2033-2034.
The federal government projects that Greater Melbourne's population will overtake Greater Sydney's by 2031-2032, reclaiming the title of Australia's largest city. Melbourne's western fringe, including the Melton region, has been a key driver of this growth, with a 61% population increase between 2011 and 2021.
Melbourne's dynamic mix of communities, cultural diversity, and economic assets continue to shape its growth trajectory, making it a vibrant and attractive destination for visitors, residents, and businesses alike.
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Aboriginal community
Melbourne, Australia, is a culturally diverse city with a population of 5 million in 2019, projected to reach 6.4 million by 2033-34. It is the most populous city in Australia and has been the country's main growth centre for 15 consecutive years as of 2017.
Melbourne is also a centre of Aboriginal life, with a strong and close-knit community of over 20,000 people (0.6% of the population) as of 2016. The city is a significant gathering place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and it is home to local groups as well as indigenous groups from other parts of Australia. The Aboriginal community in Melbourne is eager to share its stories and promote its cultural, social, and economic development.
The earliest known inhabitants of the area that became Melbourne were Indigenous Australians, specifically the Bunurong, Wurundjeri, and Wathaurong tribal groups. The Wurundjeri people are an Aboriginal community of the Woiwurrung language group in the Kulin nation. They are the traditional owners of the Yarra River Valley, which covers much of present-day Melbourne, and they continue to live in this area. The Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation was established in 1985 to raise awareness of Wurundjeri culture and history.
The Bunurong people are also still a large community in Melbourne, and their country includes the Shrine of Remembrance. The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council determined the boundaries between the lands of the Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung (Bunurong) groups in 2021, with the CBD, Richmond, and Hawthorn included in Wurundjeri land, and Albert Park, St Kilda, and Caulfield on Boonwurrung land.
Melbourne offers a variety of experiences for visitors to connect with the Aboriginal community and learn about their history and culture. These include Aboriginal-led tours of the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Koorie Heritage Trust, and the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre at the Melbourne Museum. The City of Melbourne's Aboriginal Melbourne team monitors and reports on the city's Reconciliation Action Plan, advises on Aboriginal interests and culture, and raises awareness of Melbourne's Aboriginal heritage.
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Religion
Melbourne, Australia, has a diverse religious landscape, reflecting the city's multiculturalism and historical migration patterns. While Christianity has traditionally been the predominant religion in the city, religious diversity has increased over time.
Historically, Melbourne's religious life was primarily shaped by Christian denominations. The city has a rich heritage of Anglican, Presbyterian, and Catholic churches, with St Patrick's Cathedral, designed by William Wardell, being a notable example of ecclesiastical architecture. In the mid-19th century, Melbourne's Christian community played a significant role in the displacement of Indigenous people, reflecting a belief in the civilising mission of their religion.
However, Melbourne's religious landscape has evolved significantly over time, influenced by waves of migration and changing social values. The city has experienced a decline in the proportion of Christians, particularly among younger generations, who are more likely to identify as having no religious affiliation. Despite this decline, Christianity remains the most prevalent religion in Melbourne, with nearly half of the city's population identifying as Christian. Suburbs in Melbourne's north-west, such as Keilor, are part of what is known as the "Bible ring," where about two-thirds of the population are Christian.
At the same time, other religions have grown in numbers and influence. Melbourne has a significant Islamic population, with Islam being the main religion in suburbs like Dallas, Broadmeadows, Meadow Heights, and Dandenong. Judaism is also well-represented, particularly in the Caulfield area. Buddhism has a strong presence in Melbourne, with temples like the Quang Minh Temple in Braybrook attracting large numbers of followers. The city also has a history of occult orders and spiritualist movements, dating back to the late 19th century.
Melbourne's religious diversity is further exemplified by the presence of Jainism, which is the fourth fastest-growing religion in Australia, and the representation of Aboriginal spiritual traditions, which hold significant importance in the country's cultural heritage. Additionally, atheism and agnosticism are prominent, with organisations like the Atheist Foundation of Australia and the Rationalist Society of Australia advocating for secular interests.
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Comparison to Sydney
Melbourne and Sydney are two of Australia's largest capital cities. While Sydney is known for its picturesque waterways, iconic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife, Melbourne offers a diverse cultural experience with its art, cuisine, and fashion-forward population.
Sydney's Harbour is home to world-renowned landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Luna Park. The city also boasts acclaimed museums, art galleries, and breathtaking beaches nearby. Sydney's nightlife is renowned, with some of the country's largest nightclubs attracting international DJs. The city also offers exquisite fine dining experiences and unbelievable waterfront views. Sydney has a higher cost of living than Melbourne, with higher prices for clothing, shoes, and cinema tickets.
Melbourne, on the other hand, is a cultural hub, with a strong Aboriginal presence and diverse communities from over 200 countries, speaking more than 233 languages and following 116 religious faiths. The city has a thriving arts scene, with brightly painted murals, live performances, and hidden rooftop bars. Melbourne's culinary scene is just as impressive, with endless food options influenced by European and Asian cuisines. Eating out in Melbourne tends to be more affordable than in Sydney, although both cities offer award-winning restaurants. Melbourne also has a drier climate than Sydney.
In terms of population, Melbourne experienced rapid growth during the Victorian gold rush in the 1850s, overtaking Sydney as Australia's most populous city by 1865. Melbourne's population continued to grow, reaching 5 million in 2019. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns caused a net outflow of migration, leading to a slight population decline. Despite this, Melbourne's population is projected to reach 6.4 million by 2033-2034.
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Impact of COVID-19
Melbourne, Australia's most populous city, has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The city experienced six lockdowns totalling 262 days, which had a notable impact on its population and economy.
Population Impact
Melbourne's population growth, which had been dominated by Australia for the 15th year in a row as of 2017, adding 125,424 people between 2016 and 2017, is projected to decline significantly due to the pandemic. The city experienced a slight reduction in population from 2020 to 2022 due to a net outflow of migration caused by the lockdowns. However, Melbourne's population is still expected to reach 6.4 million by 2033-2034.
Economic Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic also had adverse effects on Melbourne's labour market and economy. There was a decline in aggregate monthly hours worked, reflecting the impact of the pandemic on major states' labour markets. The city's real estate market was particularly affected, with a lack of transactions in both the commercial and residential sub-markets. Border closures and lower birth rates further impacted the housing market, causing changes in housing supply and product offerings.
Recovery and Outlook
Despite the challenges, Melbourne's economy demonstrated surprising resilience. There were temporary spikes in retail sales and housing finance commitments as households prepared for lockdowns and took advantage of low mortgage rates. The state's economic activity increased in April, indicating a potential recovery.
The pandemic's impact on Melbourne's population and economy has been profound, but the city is projected to recover and continue its growth trajectory in the coming years.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 2019, Melbourne's population boomed past 5 million people. It is projected to reach 6.4 million by 2033-34.
Melbourne is Australia's most populous city. However, Greater Sydney has a larger population than Greater Melbourne. This is predicted to change by 2031-32 when the boundary changes and population growth on the city's western fringe are expected to put Melbourne in the lead.
Melbourne was the worst-affected Australian city by the COVID-19 pandemic and experienced six lockdowns totalling 262 days. This caused a net outflow of migration and a slight reduction in population over 2020 to 2022.
