Consultation on the proposed naming of the newly created pedestrian thoroughfare at 402-432 Macaulay Road, Kensington, as ‘Swift Walk’ (the ‘Proposal’) was open from Friday 23 May to Sunday 22 June 2025.

This name has been approved by Geographic Names Victoria and Swift Walk was published in the Victoria Government Gazette on 21 August 2025.

View more information about the proposal below.

Notice was given pursuant to the Naming Rules for places in Victoria 2022 (‘Rules’) that the Melbourne City Council (‘Council’) proposes to name the newly created pedestrian thoroughfare at 402-432 Macaulay Road, Kensington, as ‘Swift Walk’ (the ‘Proposal’).

The naming is required to provide appropriate addressing for abutting properties, ensure the integrity of Council's records and support the provision of emergency and statutory services."

‘Swift Walk’ pays tribute to the rich industrial heritage of this site and the legacy of the Swift Tennis Ball Company.

Historical records show that by the mid-20th century, the site became home to Swift Manufacturing Co., a local manufacturer known for its pioneering one-piece tennis ball.

This product gained recognition nationally and was exported internationally, supporting both local employment and Australia’s sporting culture.

Swift Tennis Ball Company and Swift Manufacturing Company operated from the site from 1936 until 1965.

It has since been a defunct business for over 50 years.

For more information:

Community consultation for the proposed naming of Swift Walk, Kensington closed on Sunday 22 June 2025.

After considering community submissions, Council endorsed the proposal and lodged an application with Geographic Names Victoria (GNV) for their approval of the name.

GNV approved the name and Swift Walk was published in the Victoria Government Gazette on 21 August 2025. This process is known as 'gazettal' and all gazettes are available online.

Area proposed to be named 'Swift Walk'

Map of location of proposed Swift Walk.

Naming of City of Melbourne's places and roads