Melton is often mentioned in conversations about Melbourne due to its geographic proximity and growing connection to the city’s expanding suburbs. As Melbourne’s urban sprawl continues to stretch outward, many areas that were once considered separate towns are now viewed as part of Greater Melbourne. This brings up an important question is Melton in Melbourne? Understanding the geographical, administrative, and cultural distinctions between Melton and Melbourne can provide clarity on how these areas relate to one another.
Where is Melton Located?
Geographic Position
Melton is situated approximately 35 kilometers west of Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD). It lies along the Western Freeway, making it accessible by road and public transport. While it is technically a satellite city, its close proximity to Melbourne means that many people who live in Melton commute daily to Melbourne for work, education, or leisure.
Part of Greater Melbourne
Melton is officially considered part of the Greater Melbourne area. This classification is used by government agencies and urban planners to include the broader metropolitan region that surrounds the city. Melton falls under this umbrella because of its integration with Melbourne’s transport network, economy, and infrastructure development plans.
- Located 35 km west of Melbourne CBD
- Accessible via Western Freeway and rail
- Included in Greater Melbourne statistical region
Administrative Boundaries
City of Melton
Melton is governed by its own local government authority, the City of Melton. This council is responsible for municipal services such as planning permits, road maintenance, libraries, and community centers. The existence of a separate council highlights that while Melton is part of Greater Melbourne, it retains its administrative independence from the City of Melbourne council, which governs the Melbourne CBD and nearby inner suburbs.
Urban Growth and Planning
In recent years, the Victorian state government has included Melton in long-term urban planning strategies aimed at accommodating population growth in Melbourne. The area has been designated as a key growth corridor, with ongoing developments in housing, transport, education, and commercial infrastructure.
Is Melton Suburban or Regional?
Historical Background
Melton was once considered a regional town, separate from Melbourne. Historically, it had a rural identity, with farming and agricultural activities dominating the local economy. However, in recent decades, the landscape has shifted dramatically as housing estates, schools, and shopping centers have emerged across the area.
Modern Identity
Today, Melton is better described as an outer metropolitan suburb rather than a regional center. While it still retains elements of its rural past in some neighborhoods, the urbanization trend has redefined it as a part of Melbourne’s suburban expansion. This evolution has made Melton a popular choice for families and first-time homebuyers seeking affordable housing within commuting distance of the city.
Living in Melton
Residential Appeal
One of the main attractions of living in Melton is housing affordability. Compared to many inner and even middle suburbs of Melbourne, property prices in Melton remain relatively lower. This has drawn a diverse population of residents seeking home ownership and space for growing families.
Transport and Connectivity
Melton is well connected to Melbourne via the V/Line regional rail network and major roads. There are plans underway to electrify the rail line, which would further integrate Melton into the metropolitan public transport system. Improved transport options are likely to enhance Melton’s status as a commuter suburb of Melbourne.
- Affordable housing options
- Multiple schools and shopping centers
- Access to V/Line trains and major highways
- Planned rail upgrades for future integration
Economic and Social Integration
Employment Links
Many residents of Melton work in various sectors across Melbourne. While there is local employment in retail, education, and healthcare, the majority of jobs are still concentrated in central Melbourne or nearby industrial zones. This employment dependency further connects Melton to the broader Melbourne economy.
Community Services
Melton has developed its own community identity with local events, schools, sporting clubs, and recreational facilities. However, the influence of Melbourne’s urban culture is evident in the area’s growing multicultural population, consumer trends, and educational opportunities.
Melton in Governmental and Statistical Terms
ABS Definition
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) includes Melton within the Melbourne Statistical Division. This classification is used for census data collection and urban planning. The inclusion is based not only on geography, but also on socio-economic links to Melbourne.
Electoral Boundaries
In terms of political representation, Melton falls under state and federal electoral divisions that are part of the broader Melbourne area. This ensures that residents have access to government services and representation similar to those in more central suburbs.
Comparison to Other Melbourne Suburbs
Similar Growth Areas
Melton is not unique in this transition from regional town to suburban hub. Other areas such as Werribee, Craigieburn, and Pakenham have undergone similar changes. These suburbs were once on the fringes but are now firmly integrated into Melbourne’s suburban map.
Key Differences
Despite being part of Greater Melbourne, Melton remains distinct due to its distance from the CBD, limited public transport options (currently), and more open space. These characteristics offer both benefits and challenges, depending on what residents value in terms of lifestyle and accessibility.
Future Outlook
Planned Development
Melton is a major focus of infrastructure investment and urban planning by the Victorian Government. Projects such as the Melton Hospital, upgraded railway stations, new housing estates, and industrial developments are set to transform the area in the coming decades.
Urban Growth Boundary
Melton lies within Melbourne’s urban growth boundary, a zoning policy that defines where development can occur. This inclusion confirms the intention to develop Melton as an integral part of Melbourne’s future urban framework.
To answer the question clearly yes, Melton is part of Melbourne, specifically within the Greater Melbourne metropolitan area. However, it is not part of the Melbourne CBD or inner suburbs, and it maintains a degree of independence through its own local government and historical identity. As Melbourne continues to expand, the lines between suburbs and neighboring towns like Melton will blur even more. With new infrastructure and increasing population, Melton is fast becoming one of Melbourne’s key outer suburban hubs offering a blend of affordability, accessibility, and opportunity.