The State of Victoria is rich & productive, producing a quarter of Australia's economic output and one-third of Australia's manufacturing output. It is referred to as the "engine room" of the Australian economy.
Melbourne is acclaimed as one of the world's most liveable cities. It is a vibrant, harmonious multicultural society, home to over 4 million people from over 140 ethnic backgrounds.
The greater Melbourne area spans about 8,000 square kilometres, making it one of the lowest densities for a major city in the world. It is well planned, with excellent transport infrastructure, sporting facilities, parklands, open spaces, trees, shopping centres, entertainment and sporting venues of world class standard.
Melbourne has excellent educational institutions. It has public and private schools of high repute. It has 13 universities with over 50 campuses throughout greater Melbourne and regional Victoria. Melbourne attracts over 100,000 international students each year.
The Port of Melbourne is Australia's busiest container port. The Ports of Geelong and Westernport are also nearby.
Melbourne Airport never closes. It is open 24 hours a day, unlike other capital city airports that are restricted by curfew.
Melbourne and Victoria are known for their advancement of culture, arts, theatre and cinema. Stage shows from Broadway and London often play in Melbourne (eg Cats, Phantom of The Opera, Chicago, Evita, Fame, Westside Story & many more).
Melbourne's climate is conducive to year round outdoor leisure activities.
Melbourne is an event city ; it hosts major exhibitions and events every month, which attract interstate and international visitors. Events include:
The Australian Tennis Open,
The Melbourne Film Festival
The Melbourne Fashion Festival,
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival
The Melbourne Spring Racing Carn
Test Cricket Matches at the MCG
The Formula 1 Motor Grand Prix,
The Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island
The Masters Golf Tournament,
The International Motor Show
The Royal Melbourne Show,
The Flower & Garden Festival
MOOMBA : family entertainment festival,
Moomba Masters Water Ski-ing
Cycling including road races:
Herald Sun Jayco Tour;
World Road Championship