Melbourne

What is it like to live and work in Melbourne?

Referred to as 'Australia's cultural capital', Melbourne is not only internationally recognised as a sophisticated world city, but also consistently rates highly in health care, entertainment, education, sport and tourism. This recently led to the city being named the most liveable in the world in 2015, for the fifth year in a row, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit. It is recognised as one of only two UNESCO Cities of Literature and is a major centre for theatre, street art, film and music. Melbourne is also known for it's thriving, multicultural restaurant and bar scene, pretty waterfront location and vibrant nightlife. Whether it's sport, history, art or music you're interested in, your weekends are covered. Another plus is that the city is currently experiencing strong population and economic growth which means lots of career opportunities. Weather-wise, Melbourne has a temperate oceanic climate, although it's location on the boundary of the cool southern ocean and hot inland areas does lead to changeable weather conditions including regular cold fronts in the spring and summer months.

The verdict: If you can handle the odd cold spell and you don't need a surf beach right on your doorstep then Melbourne could -officially- be the best city in Australia (and the world), for you to live and work in.

What are the prominent industries?

Melbourne's economy is highly diversified, with transportation, tourism, IT, finance, research and education all considered particularly strong industries. The city is home to the head offices of five of the 10 largest corporations in Australia including Telstra and ANZ and is host to the busiest and largest seaport in Australia.

What is the area famous for?

? In March the city comes alive with the hosting of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix.
? The Australian Open, one of four Grand Slam tennis tournaments around the world, takes place at the Margaret Court Arena in January.
? Melbourne is known as the birthplace of the Australian film and television industries, Australian Rules Football and Australian impressionism.

Population Info:

Melbourne consists of 31 municipalities including the metropolis which is located on Port Phillip Bay and the surrounding hinterland area including the Mornington Peninsula, the Yarra Valley and the Macedon and Dandenong mountain ranges. Melbourne's population currently sits at around 4,500,000 people, collectively known as Melburnians.

Some key landmarks in the area:

? Melbourne is home to some of the world's most cutting edge architecture, including the Arts Centre, the Melbourne Recital Centre and the Digital Harbour Port 1010.
? Flinders St train station, built in 1909, is a cultural icon, with its arched entrance and prominent dome making it one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.