
Docklands Victoria is a thriving waterfront precinct that offers a unique blend of urban living, entertainment, and shopping. It's a place where you can enjoy a day out with family and friends, or simply relax and take in the views of the city.
The precinct has undergone significant transformation over the years, with over AUD 2 billion invested in its development since 2000. This investment has paid off, with Docklands now boasting a range of attractions and activities that cater to all ages and interests.
One of the standout features of Docklands is its vibrant shopping and dining scene, with over 140 stores and restaurants to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, you'll find plenty of options to suit your taste and budget.
Places to Visit
If you're looking for a fun day out in Docklands, Victoria, you've got plenty of options to choose from. Waterfront City is a must-visit, featuring a 120-metre tall Ferris wheel in the shape of a seven-pointed star, as well as a Harbour Town shopping centre with Australia's first Costco Warehouse Store.
Waterfront City also boasts a large circus tent hosting the International Circus Spectacular, as well as a mosaic of local entertainers and bronze statues of famous Australians. If you're feeling peckish, you can grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, cafes, or bars.
NewQuay is another great spot to check out, with its picturesque waterfront promenade lined with stylish restaurants, cafes, and bars. By day, you can watch the boats come and go from the nearby marina, and by night, you can enjoy the stunning views of the city lights.
Here are some of the eight unique precincts to explore in Docklands:
- Waterfront City: entertainment, retail, and dining
- NewQuay: waterfront promenade with restaurants, cafes, and bars
- Digital Harbour: award-winning architecture and technology hub
- Central Pier: heritage listed cargo sheds with function venues and dining
- Stadium Precinct: home to Etihad Stadium and Channel Seven
- Victoria Harbour: waterfront promenades, cafes, and restaurants
- Yarra's Edge: riverside dining, day spa, and art galleries
- Batman's Hill: innovative architecture, retail, and public spaces
Each precinct offers something different, so be sure to explore them all to find your favourite spot.
Community
Community is at the heart of Docklands, and Development Victoria is working hard to build a vibrant sense of place. The Docklands Community and Place Plan was created through extensive community engagement, identifying opportunities to enhance developments and create a connected community.
The plan was the result of a community engagement program, which explored how to create a vibrant sense of place and an engaged community. The Docklands Community Forum was established in 2012 by the City of Melbourne to facilitate community input into the plan.
The Docklands Representative Group was formed in 2019, taking over from the City of Melbourne-led forum. This new format encourages networking, connection, and community-led projects and updates.
You can get involved in the community by visiting The Library at The Dock website or The Community Hub at the Dock website. These websites have information on community spaces and how to book them.
Here are some community projects and spaces in Docklands:
- Community Garden
- Community Hub at the Dock
- Docklands Sport Courts and Park
- Harbour Family and Childrens Hub
- Docklands Walking Tours App - The Dockside Heritage Trail
- Multi-Purpose Sports Courts
Development Victoria continues to work with the City of Melbourne to deliver infrastructure and community projects in Docklands.
Development and Environment
Docklands, Victoria has a dedicated customer service team that can be reached at 131 852, or you can visit them in person at the Melbourne Town Hall on the corner of Swanston and Collins Street.
The community hub at the Dock Childcare is a great resource for families, and if you're interested in learning more about the different precincts in the area, you can find more information below.
Development Victoria is responsible for the design and construction standards in the area, and you can find more information on their website or by contacting them directly.
Community Outcomes
The Docklands community is thriving, thanks to the efforts of Development Victoria and the City of Melbourne. The Docklands Community and Place Plan was created after an extensive community engagement program, which identified opportunities to enhance existing and proposed developments.
The plan aimed to create a vibrant sense of place and an engaged community. This goal is being achieved through various community projects and initiatives.
The Docklands Community Forum, established in 2012, has played a crucial role in facilitating community input into the Docklands Community and Place Plan. In 2019, the forum transitioned to a community-led format, allowing for more opportunities for networking and community-led projects.

Development Victoria continues to work with the City of Melbourne to deliver additional infrastructure and community projects in Docklands. This collaboration has led to the creation of various community spaces and amenities.
Some notable community outcomes in Docklands include the Community Garden, Community Hub at the Dock, and Docklands Sport Courts and Park. These spaces provide opportunities for residents to connect with each other and engage in physical activity.
Here are some key community outcomes in Docklands:
- Community Garden
- Community Hub at the Dock
- Docklands Sport Courts and Park
- Harbour Family and Children's Hub
- Docklands Walking Tours App - The Dockside Heritage Trail
- Multi-Purpose Sports Courts
Development
Development is a crucial aspect of the Docklands area, with a strong focus on urban renewal. The Docklands Authority, now known as Development Victoria, was established in 1991 to oversee the renewal of the area.
Almost two-thirds of the original development plans are now complete, with key achievements including more than $14.6 billion of private investment. This investment has led to the creation of over 17,500 residents and 73,000 workers in the area.
Development Victoria works in partnership with private developers and the City of Melbourne to drive urban renewal. This collaborative approach has resulted in the completion of 10,000 apartments, or those under construction, and over 1 million square metres of commercial office space.

The Docklands precinct is home to some of Australia's largest companies, including ANZ, NAB, Medibank Private, and Myer. These companies have invested heavily in the area, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
Development Victoria manages the development of Docklands, working with private sector partners to create a range of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, public housing, river homes, and wharf side terraces.
Environment
Docklands is a leader in sustainable development, boasting one of the largest concentrations of green buildings in Australia. This commitment to Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) principles is evident in its architecture and design.
The area's parks and open spaces are a tranquil oasis, covering over nine hectares of land. This greenery provides a peaceful escape for residents and visitors alike.
Docklands' focus on ESD has resulted in a unique and environmentally friendly community. Its innovative approach to development is setting a high standard for future projects.
Heritage
The area is home to a number of significant heritage buildings, showcasing its rich history.
67 Spencer Street, a former railway office, has been adaptively reused as the "Grand Hotel" apartments.
The Mission to Seafarers building is another notable heritage site, a testament to the area's maritime past.
Victoria Dock and Central Pier have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage.
Queens Warehouse, now a vintage car museum, is a great example of adaptive reuse in action.
The Docklands Park gantry crane is a striking feature of the area's industrial landscape.
A small number of warehouses and container sheds remain, a reminder of the area's former industrial use.
Things to Do
Docklands offers a varied mix of shopping, business, parks, entertainment, dining, sporting events, marine transport, community events and arts and culture to residents and visitors.
You can shop at any one of the three major retail destinations in Docklands, making it a shopper's paradise.
The Docklands is also home to various attractions including the Etihad Stadium and a large number of modern buildings and public spaces and artworks.
You can charter a restaurant cruise or enjoy an afternoon on a yacht with a glass of wine with your friends, or even learn to sail a boat on the Victoria Harbour.
Things to Do

The Docklands offers a varied mix of shopping, business, parks, entertainment, dining, sporting events, marine transport, community events, and arts and culture to residents and visitors.
You can shop at any one of the three major retail destinations in Docklands or keep entertained with a diverse selection of activities for the entire family.
The Etihad Stadium is one of the attractions in Docklands, along with a large number of modern buildings and public spaces and artworks.
Located minutes away from the Melbourne city center, Docklands offers quality restaurants and fantastic shopping all set to the backdrop of picturesque promenades and marinas.
You can charter a restaurant cruise or enjoy an afternoon on a yacht with a glass of wine with your friends.
There are over 100 restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from in Docklands, catering for all tastes and budgets.
Head to Waterfront City and NewQuay for an abundance of dining options, or try Central Pier, Yarra's Edge, and Victoria Harbour Esplanade for a different experience.
For a romantic waterfront dinner or lazy afternoon meal, the atmosphere in Docklands is perfect.
You can even learn to sail a boat on the Victoria Harbour, a great activity for the whole family to enjoy together.
Events

Melbourne's Docklands is a hub for exciting events and festivals throughout the year. Its unique location and picturesque surroundings make it a perfect venue for hosting various events.
The Docklands host New Year's Eve fireworks, which are a major draw for locals and tourists alike.
Christmas festivities are also a big part of the Docklands' events calendar, with plenty of activities and decorations to get you in the holiday spirit.
International shows, food, wine, art, fashion, and sporting events also take place at the Docklands, making it a popular destination for a wide range of interests.
Shopping
Shopping in Docklands is a treat, with three main retail destinations to explore. You can find a broad range of fashion labels and accessories at Spencer Street at Southern Cross station.
Waterfront City is a shopper's paradise, home to Harbour Town and Costco. Catch the free Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle bus or free City Circle tram to get there.
At Harbour Town, you'll discover unique laneway shopping with brand direct outlets and speciality stores on two levels.
Art and Architecture

Docklands is a treasure trove of innovative architecture and design. Each one of its precincts showcases unique and impressive buildings.
One of the standout architectural structures is the Webb Bridge, a beautiful example of modern design.
Docklands is also home to numerous art installations, with over 36 spread across the area. Silence by Adrian Mauriks is a series of large playful sculptures that catch the eye.
Cow Up a Tree by John Kelly is another popular art piece, inspired by a violent flood that swept cattle into trees in rural Victoria.
Getting Around
Getting Around Melbourne Docklands is a breeze, thanks to its proximity to the city's public transportation networks. You can easily reach the area by tram, train, car, bike, or on foot.
The free City Circle tram and the free Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle make stops in Docklands, including Harbour Town shopping centre, NewQuay, and Waterfront city.
Docklands is also accessible by water, as it sits on Victoria Harbour.
Getting to Melbourne

Getting to Melbourne is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected public transportation network. Melbourne is easily accessible by tram, train, car, bike, or on foot.
You can reach Melbourne's city center in just a few minutes. The free City Circle tram makes it easy to get around, and it's a great way to see the sights without breaking the bank.
The city's major bike routes run through Melbourne, making it a great option for those who prefer to pedal. You can even rent a bike and explore the city at your own pace.
Getting to Melbourne's Docklands is also a piece of cake, with several options available. The free Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle makes stops in Docklands, including Harbour Town shopping centre and NewQuay.
You can also access Melbourne's Docklands by water, as it sits on Victoria Harbour.
Approach
To navigate the waterfront area of Melbourne, it's essential to understand the approach taken in developing the area.

The goal was to create a waterfront development that extends the western edge of Melbourne's CBD and enhances its historic connection with the waterfront.
A plan for Docklands was released in 1995, after extensive consultation with the community and key stakeholders.
Construction of Docklands started in 1997 and was anticipated to be completed in 2025.
Development Victoria is responsible for managing the Docklands urban renewal project, through partnerships with private developers, the State Government and the City of Melbourne.
A precinct approach has been adopted to guide the overall development of Docklands.
This approach involves partnering with selected developers via a Development Agreement.
A requirement of each Development Agreement is the preparation of a distinct master plan/development plan that guides the delivery of the project.
Prior to commencing work, developers must submit a detailed planning submission to the relevant responsible authority.
Future and Outcomes
The Docklands area in Victoria has come a long way since its development plans were first laid out. Almost two-thirds of the original plans are now complete, with many impressive outcomes to show for it.

One of the key achievements is the urban renewal of the area, which has been made possible through strong partnerships with private developers, the Victorian Government, and the City of Melbourne. This collaboration has led to a significant amount of private investment, with over $14.6 billion poured into the area.
The area is now home to more than 17,500 residents and 73,000 workers, with 2,500 to 3,000 construction jobs sustained annually. This growth has also led to the construction of 10,000 apartments, with over 1 million square meters of commercial office space completed or under construction.
Here are some key statistics illustrating the growth and development of the Docklands area:
- More than $14.6 billion of private investment
- Home to more than 17,500 residents and 73,000 workers
- 2,500 to 3,000 construction jobs sustained annually
- 10,000 apartments completed, or under construction
- More than 1 million square meters of commercial office space completed, or under construction
Future
The future of Docklands is looking bright. Construction of Docklands commenced in 1997 and was originally anticipated to be completed in 2025, but it's clear that this ambitious project is still in full swing.
Docklands will continue to evolve with re-master planning underway for some precincts, ensuring that this vibrant area remains a hub of activity. This ongoing development is a testament to the project's enduring success.

By 2025, Docklands aims to have achieved even more impressive milestones. Here are some of the key outcomes that we can expect:
- Achieved urban renewal through strong partnerships with private developers, the State Government and the City of Melbourne
- Became home to even more residents and workers, building on the current 17,500 residents and 73,000 workers
- Continued to attract significant private investment, potentially reaching new heights
- Sustained a high level of construction jobs, providing ongoing economic benefits
Outcomes
The Docklands area has undergone significant transformation since the establishment of the Docklands Authority in 1991. This marked the beginning of a new era for the area.
Almost two-thirds of the original development plans are now complete, a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved. Today, the Docklands is a thriving hub of activity.
More than $14.6 billion of private investment has been poured into the area, a staggering figure that reflects the area's growing popularity. This investment has helped to create a vibrant and diverse community.
Home to more than 17,500 residents and 73,000 workers, the Docklands is a bustling hub of activity. The area is also a major employment center, with many major companies calling the Docklands home.
The Docklands is a major construction site, with 2,500 to 3,000 construction jobs sustained annually. This has helped to stimulate the local economy and create new opportunities for residents.

Here are some key statistics about the Docklands:
- 10,000 apartments completed, or under construction
- More than 1 million square meters of commercial office space completed, or under construction
- Home to some of Australia’s largest companies including ANZ, NAB, Medibank Private, and Myer
- Marvel Stadium and waterfront is a world-class sporting and entertainment destination
- 68 pieces of public art across the Docklands precinct
- Almost 11 hectares of green parks and reserves
- One of the largest concentration of green buildings in Australia, embracing strong Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) principles
The Docklands is a true success story, and its transformation is a testament to the power of collaborative planning and investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Docklands a good area in Melbourne?
Docklands is a suitable option for those who prefer apartment living, with easy access to the city and inner suburbs. However, it may not offer the same level of vibrancy as other areas in Melbourne.
Is Docklands considered CBD?
Docklands is not considered part of the central business district (CBD), but rather an inner-city suburb located on its western end. It's a distinct area with its own identity, despite being close to the CBD.
What is the population of Docklands Victoria?
As of June 2024, the estimated population of Docklands, Victoria is approximately 18,567. This number reflects a 4.52% increase from the previous year.
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