How has Melbourne changed since 2004?

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SafÃ¿re

Having lived overseas (on and off), I am very biased towards Melbourne.

One of the first major differences you will notice, is the whole Docklands/Victoria Harbour development. Where once there was an industrial wasteland, there is now a new, vibrant, living and entertainment precinct.

Other "changes" (well, not really)... Chadstone and Southland are still trying to outdo each other with expansions. And Doncaster Shoppingtown has weighed into the squabble by adding new wings. So despite the "doom & gloom" forecasts of the economists, Melburninans still love to shop. Which has seen such icons as the South Melbourne market have a complete overhaul. (Still the best dim sims in town.)

We have no end of restaurants, nightclubs, bars, entertainment complexes opening (and closing); so you're never at a loss for choices on a Saturday night,

But I don't think Melbourne is any more violent or dangerous. Just the media (as ever) seems to love focusing on the negatives.

As for house prices - by world markets, the Melbourne market is still overpriced. But if you don't mind living in the outer 'burbs, there are plenty of affordable homes available. Obviously, inner city accommodation is expensive; but if you've got kids, you want a backyard anyway.

The only other thing you notice is the opening of the new Eastlink. They finally built the Scoresby Bypass. LOL.

Personally, I think Melbourne is fabulous. But I happen to be a very biased Australian who thinks this is the greatest place on the planet to live (regardless of which city of town you call home).

Grey

your correct about the violence and danger, the world seems to be heading this way less respect and morality within the youth of today. the way society and individual people are slipping into anarchy is disgraceful.

Meg_62

Well I am a born and bred Melburnian

As part of school i recently spent two weeks in the city, I was shocked at the amount homeless people on the streets but compared to anywhere in the world it is relatively low. Graffity is a big issue in Melbourne, going from Richmond Station to Flinders St you see all the graffity. But then you see the wonder of federation square and flinders street station and the trams rumbling past... makes melbourne very iconic. Taking a trip down to the beach at St Kilda, is amazing.. you have an ice-cream at the pier kiosk, maybe a ride or two in Luna Park, a shop down Acland St and then you have a nice fish and chip dinner on the beach.

As for housing I don't really know, but being a kid in melbourne is one of the greatest things, because of all the amazing places so easy accesible

good luck

liz down under

There has been a large increase in Melbourne's population in the last four years (it is the fastest growing capital city in Australia). This has led to increased traffic congestion and overcrowding on public transport (particularly at peak times). We have started to see some African immigrants (eg. Sudanese refugees) and there are a lot of Indians moving here at the moment too. The city is a bit more vibrant than it used to be because so many people are living in apartments in the city which they never used to. The Docklands area is really going ahead. The housing prices have gone silly in the last 7-8 years particularly in the inner suberbs. Other than that you will find it pretty similar to how you left it four years ago. It still is a great city to live.

mllecharlo

I've lived in Melbourne my whole life and never really been confronted with a lot of violence. The rising violence is basically within the CBD and as a 21 yr old I get out there an awful lot at all hours and to honest, there are scuffles and small fights, but I believe the media make it out to be a lot worse than it is. And really, stick a bunch of intoxicated overly hormonal young adults together and it's going to happen, regardless of the city. In my opinion, suburbs haven't really had an increase, not that's visible anyhow.. but you are right on one count, prices have gone out, but some areas are still affordable and nice, all depends on what you're after. Melbourne is still one of the top 5 livable cities in the world. Kicks sydney in any case :P
Hope it helped, a little anyway! Best of luck, and come on home!

ghost

More people of color.

Jade

I don't think they're true. Melbourne is a labyrinth and a pain in the ****, but it's not dangerous.

jade=)

umm well i dont think the danger risks are that much higher...like i'd still call it very safe
but yes the housing/rental prices have sky rocketed and it's really difficult for young people nowadays
but despite this, come back it's worth it like i see myself travelling around the world when i'm twenty but i dont think i'd want to raise my kids anywhere else
i've got alot of friends from all over the world and they all love melbourne the most

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