Migrant services - City Orientation
Getting Around Melbourne
With a population of over three million people, Melbourne is a cosmopolitan and multicultural city.
Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and is a relatively modern city which is less than 200 years old. New futuristic designs add to the fascinating mix of architecture and ensure the skyline is constantly changing. Melbourne is very much about lifestyle. It is no huge surprise to residents that their city has been ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Melburnians embrace three things in particular:
- sport (Australian Rules football is almost a religion);
- fashion (the look is chic with a dash of quirky); and
- festivals (the calendar is packed year round).
The arts feature prominently with world-class festivals and cultural activities throughout the year.
Navigating Melbourne
Melbourne's suburbs are culturally diverse.
Choosing which suburb to live in will depend on your own lifestyle and what you do in your spare time.
Whatever your lifestyle requirements are, you need to travel from place to place.
Familiarising yourself with the city's layout and your transport options will help you dramatically when navigating Melbourne.
Public Transport
Public transport in Melbourne is run by Metlink. You can travel by train, tram or bus through three different zones.
Ticket fares are based on zones and periods of validity. Various ticket types are available. Ensure you travel with a valid ticket as strict uniformed and non-uniformed inspectors check tickets. Fines are hefty.
Concession tickets are only available to those who carry concession identification (ID). You may be fined if you are unable to show your valid concession ID when approached by an inspector.
There are various types of concession cards available, for example Victorian Public Transport Student Concession Card or Victorian Health Care Card. Make sure you investigate your eligibility, as public transport concession tickets cost around half that of a full fare.
Fare prices, concession details, timetables and route information can be found on the Metlink website.
Car
Maintaining a car can be expensive. If you travel by car, note that parking around Melbourne City can be is limited and you generally need to pay.
Refer to the VicRoads website for details on obtaining or renewing a Victorian drivers licence.
Bicycles
Many people enjoy the health and financial benefits of riding a bicycle to get around the inner city. The Bicycle Victoria website provides useful information on rules and regulations, purchasing bikes and accessories, safety and path maps.
Weather & Leisure
Following are some useful links to help with ideas for your leisure time.
The Bureau of Meteorology website provides information on local and national weather conditions.
The City Search website provides information regarding events and activities in Melbourne as well as a business directory.
The City of Melbourne website & That’s Melbourne website also provides information on what's going on in Melbourne.