Expat communities

Melbourne is a thriving hub for expats, attracting individuals from all over the globe. Known for its multiculturalism, nearly a third of the city’s residents were born overseas, creating a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned resident, there are plenty of ways to connect with like-minded people through language exchange groups, cultural festivals, and expat networking events. Join our community of over 150 members who have relocated to Toronto! Connect with fellow expats, share experiences, and build your network in one of the world’s most diverse cities.

Co-working spaces

We partner with IWG - International Workplace Group, a leading co-working provider to offer exclusive benefits to our users available in Melbourne (Spaces). Sign up to discover more partners details.

Melbourne’s co-working scene is thriving, with a variety of spaces tailored for digital nomads, startups, and established businesses. Here are some top options:

• ‍WeWork: Multiple locations in Melbourne, including Collins Street and Southbank, offering modern amenities, private offices, and vibrant networking events.
• ‍The Commons: Stylish spaces in Collingwood and Cremorne, featuring wellness programs, rooftop gardens, and community-focused events. ‍
• Hub Australia: Premium co-working spaces in Docklands and Parliament Station, known for flexible memberships and professional meeting rooms. ‍
• Spaces: Located in Richmond and St Kilda, Spaces combines creativity with productivity, offering beautifully designed interiors and a collaborative atmosphere. ‍
• Engine House: A local favorite in Richmond, catering to freelancers and small teams with a relaxed, community-focused vibe.

‍Public workspaces

For those who prefer working in public spaces, Melbourne offers numerous locations with a mix of ambiance and productivity:

• State Library Victoria: Iconic reading rooms, free Wi-Fi, and quiet study zones make it a popular choice for remote workers and students.
• Melbourne Museum Café: A serene environment with good coffee and plenty of natural light, perfect for casual work sessions.
• ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image): A vibrant space in Federation Square with creative inspiration and free Wi-Fi.

‍Company presence

Melbourne is Australia’s business and innovation hub, hosting headquarters and regional offices for major companies across various industries:

• Technology: Regional offices for Google, IBM, and Microsoft, alongside a growing fintech and software development scene.
• Finance: Home to ANZ and NAB banks, and a key player in Australia’s financial sector.
• Healthcare: Melbourne’s biotech sector is thriving, with institutions like CSL Limited and numerous medical research centers.
• Retail and E-commerce: Headquarters for Myer, Cotton On, and Kogan, as well as a growing presence of global e-commerce players.
• Media and entertainment: Production hubs for major studios and national media outlets like Channel 10 and ABC.

‍Startup culture

Melbourne’s startup ecosystem is vibrant, supported by accelerators, incubators, and innovation hubs:

• LaunchVic: A government initiative offering funding and support for startups across Victoria.
• Stone & Chalk: A leading fintech hub located in Docklands, providing coworking and collaboration opportunities.
• Inspire9: A community-focused space in Richmond, catering to creative startups and tech entrepreneurs.
• Melbourne Accelerator Program (MAP): Run by the University of Melbourne, it supports high-potential startups with funding, mentorship, and resources.

Notable startups like Envato, Airwallex, and Culture Amp have roots in Melbourne, showcasing the city’s innovative spirit.

Networking opportunities

Melbourne’s professional scene offers plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals:

• Startup Grind Melbourne: Regular events featuring industry leaders and networking opportunities.
• Melbourne Silicon Beach: A community for tech entrepreneurs and innovators, hosting pitch nights and social events.
• Creative Women’s Circle: Networking events and resources for women in creative industries.
• Co-working Events: Spaces like WeWork and The Commons regularly host workshops, panels, and networking sessions.

With its dynamic mix of established businesses, thriving startup culture, and networking opportunities, Melbourne is an excellent city for career growth and entrepreneurial ventures.

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Attractions

Melbourne is brimming with iconic landmarks and cultural treasures, captivating art lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Here are some must-visit attractions:

• ‍Federation Square: A cultural hub with museums, galleries, and live events, it’s the perfect starting point to explore Melbourne’s vibrant city life. ‍
• Royal Botanic Gardens: These expansive gardens are a tranquil retreat, featuring diverse plant collections, walking trails, and a picturesque lake. ‍
• National Gallery of Victoria (NGV): Australia’s oldest and most prestigious art museum, showcasing an impressive collection of international and local works. ‍
• Queen Victoria Market: A historic marketplace offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and vibrant street food, it’s a favorite among locals and tourists. ‍
• Melbourne Zoo: Home to over 300 animal species, the zoo is dedicated to conservation and features unique exhibits like the butterfly house and lion gorge. ‍
• Flinders Street Station: A Melbourne icon with its striking architecture and central location, it’s a must-see and perfect photo spot. ‍
• St Kilda Beach: Enjoy stunning sunsets, penguin sightings, and a lively pier, all just a short tram ride from the city center.

Festivals and holidays

Festivals:

• ‍Melbourne International Comedy Festival (March-April): One of the largest comedy festivals in the world, featuring local and international acts. ‍
• Moomba Festival (March): A beloved city festival with parades, live music, carnival rides, and the iconic Birdman Rally. ‍
• Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (March): Celebrating the city’s renowned culinary scene with special events, tastings, and pop-ups. ‍
• White Night (August): A mesmerizing night of art, light installations, and live performances that transforms Melbourne’s streets. ‍
• Australian Open (January): A global tennis event that kicks off the Grand Slam season and attracts sports fans worldwide.

‍Holidays:

• ‍Australia Day (January 26): A national holiday celebrating Australian culture with fireworks, parades, and community events. ‍
• Anzac Day (April 25): A day of remembrance for Australian and New Zealand soldiers, marked by dawn services and marches. ‍
• Melbourne Cup Day (First Tuesday in November): A state holiday dedicated to the famous horse race, celebrated with fashion, parties, and racing.

‍Local celebrities

Melbourne has produced many notable figures across various fields:

• ‍Cate Blanchett: Oscar-winning actress known for her work in film and theater.
• ‍Nick Cave: Renowned musician, songwriter, and frontman of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. ‍
• Kylie Minogue: International pop icon and entertainer with a career spanning decade.

Fun fact

Melbourne’s tram network is the largest in the world, stretching over 250 kilometers and featuring more than 475 trams.

Local cuisine

Melbourne’s food scene is world-class, blending international flavors with a strong coffee culture. Here are some must-try dishes and experiences:

• ‍Meat Pie: A savory pastry filled with minced meat and gravy; it’s an Aussie classic often enjoyed at footy games. ‍
• Lamingtons: A dessert of sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut, often paired with tea or coffee. ‍
• Flat White: Melbourne’s coffee culture is unparalleled, and the flat white (a creamy espresso-based drink) is a local favorite. ‍
• Parma (Chicken Parmigiana): A pub staple featuring crumbed chicken topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese, served with chips and salad. ‍
• Tim Tams: A beloved chocolate biscuit perfect for a sweet treat or trying the famous “Tim Tam Slam.”

Melbourne is also famous for its laneway dining, offering hidden gems serving everything from Vietnamese pho to Italian pasta. The city’s multicultural population ensures an exciting variety of global cuisines at every corner.

Do's and Don'ts

✅ Do respect local customs and public spaces. Melburnians value cleanliness, so always dispose of your rubbish properly.

✅ Do tap on and off with a myki card when using public transport. It's the essential travel card for trains, trams, and buses.

✅ Do embrace Melbourne’s café culture. Try local coffee spots and strike up friendly conversations with baristas.

❌ Don’t jaywalk; fines apply, and Melburnians generally adhere to traffic signals.

❌ Don’t assume trams are free everywhere; the free tram zone is limited to the CBD, and you’ll need a valid myki outside this area.

❌ Don’t underestimate Melbourne’s weather. Always carry an extra layer—locals joke about having “four seasons in a day.”

‍Tipping

Tipping in Melbourne is appreciated but not expected. Here’s a quick guide:

• ‍Restaurants: 10% of the bill if service is excellent, but not mandatory. ‍
• Cafes and bars: Rounding up the bill or leaving loose change is common. ‍
• Taxis/rideshare: Rounding up the fare is a kind gesture. ‍
• Hotels: AUD 2–5 for bellhops and housekeeping staff is appreciated.

Equivalent services & platforms

^{Taxi service} _{Uber, Didi, Ola, 13cabs}

^Supermarket _{Coles, Woolworths, Aldi}

^Messaging _{WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger}

^{Food delivery} _{Uber Eats, DoorDash, Menulog}

^{Internet provider} _{Telstra, Optus, TPG}

^Bank _{Commonwealth Bank, NAB, ANZ}

^{Hotel booking}_{Booking.com, Wotif, Airbnb}

^Streaming _{Netflix, Stan, Spotify, Binge}

Apps to download before arrival

^{Navigation & transit}_{Google Maps, PTV app (Public Transport Victoria)}

^Ride-hailing _{Uber, Didi, Ola}

^{Food & dining}_{Uber Eats, Menulog, Zomato}

^{Daily essentials}_{Woolworths, Coles, Amazon Australia}

^{Currency & language}_{XE Currency, Google Translate}

^{Weather & city info}_{BOM (Bureau of Meteorology), Melbourne Official Visitor Guide}

Disclaimer: This city guide is based on personal research, experiences, and various online sources. While we strive for accuracy and inclusivity, the content is generalized and may not reflect all individual circumstances or perspectives. Readers are encouraged to double-check information for accuracy and relevance to their specific needs. Updated as of November 2024, this guide is for informational purposes only. We disclaim all liability for decisions made based on this guide.