Melbourne Culture - Modern History of Melbourne goes back about 200 years but there are many influences still present from the Aboriginals who settled in the area many thousands of years ago. Melbourne is the capital of Victoria state and one of the most important cities in Australia, many think it is the capital of the whole of Australia.

The Golden Mile in Melbourne shows off much of Melbourne's heritage. Along here are some of the older buildings dating from the 19th Century. Walking tours are available of the area and information is available from the Visitors Centre. Parkville will give you an impression of the ethnic diversity and rich heritage of Melbourne with its rows of trees, terraced houses as well as wonderful old Victorian “filagree” houses.

Geography
Melbourne is located in the state of Victoria, around the shores of Port Philip Bay. Situated 5km from the bay, sitting by the Yarra River.

Population
Australia: 19.5 million
Melbourne: 3.2 million

Ethnic Groups in Australia
81% white Australian, 15.5% European, 1% New Zealander, 0.9% Asian, 0.9% African, 0.7% American.