In a connected city, all people can move about freely to communicate and trade – locally, regionally and globally – without sacrificing essential social or ecological values. The City of Melbourne manages movement in and around our city to help people trade, meet and move about safely and freely. We know that catering for our growing city and safeguarding its continued prosperity means planning for an efficient and sustainable transport network of the future. Building a ‘connected city’ is about working closely with our partners and advocating for the free movement of people and goods in the city. It is about making it easier for more people to make more sustainable choices as they travel to and around the city, whether by foot, bicycle, tram or train.
Future Melbourne 2008

With improved conference facilities and Melbourne’s reputation for holding events and conferences, there has been rejuvenation in international visitors to Melbourne for conference and business purposes.

The Education and Training industry contributes almost $3 billion to the municipality’s economy. Since more than 30,000 students are from overseas, this industry is naturally very export dependent. It also reflects the growing interconnectedness of Melbourne with the world.

The number of motor vehicle ownership registered in the municipality per capita has fallen by around 17.5 per cent since 2010.

As the City of Melbourne grows, its importance as a global city is also increasing. Endorsed by the City of Melbourne in November 2014, the 'Melbourne – Doing Business Globally' framework guides our international activities, ensures the delivery of opportunities to Melbourne's businesses and seeks to achieve favourable returns on City of Melbourne's financial, program and personnel investment. To achieve this outcome, priority is given to business development activities that increase exports and inward investment in Melbourne's key industry sectors.

Read more about this goal in the Future Melbourne 2008 Report: