A project of its time

One constant in Southbank has been change. Today’s modern suburb was once a rich eco-system. When Europeans first encountered the lower Yarra River, they were struck by the great beauty of the place, the extent and diversity of bird life and the interesting and varied vegetation. This was the traditional country of the Kulin Nation. For the Kulin, the river was Birrarung - river of mists.

After settlement, Southbank changed rapidly. It was the first arrival area for new settlers on their journey from Port Melbourne to the City. In the early 20th century, it became a hub of industry. The 1960s heralded the first of many of Melbourne's major cultural institutions' relationship with Southbank. The National Gallery of Victoria opened in 1968. The Melbourne Concert Hall and Arts Centre followed in 1982. In 1992, the Southgate complex was opened and it was the beginning of major urban renewal. Today it is the heart of Melbourne's arts precinct, a thriving business sector and residential area. Take a look at the Southbank Place Assessment (PDF, 2.4MB) for a detailed history of the area.

Today, change continues to take place at a rapid pace in Southbank. Take a look at the map below to see what's currently underway and planned. Transforming Southbank Boulevard really is a project of its time. It has the potential to create a series of new public spaces from the Yarra River to the Domain Parklands - a public space corridor through the heart of Southbank.

In addition to creating the new public space, there are many other benefits. Take a look at the list below.