What is the capital of Victoria, Australia?
Melbourne is the capital of Victoria. Founded in 1835 on the Yarra River, it is Australia's second-largest city by most measures and served as the national capital from 1901 to 1927.
Melbourne was founded by settlers from Tasmania and grew rapidly after gold was discovered in Victoria in 1851. The gold rush made it one of the richest cities in the world in the late 1800s, and many grand Victorian buildings from that time still line its streets.
After Federation in 1901, Melbourne hosted the federal Parliament until Canberra was ready in 1927. Today the city is known for its laneway cafes, street art, trams and major sporting events such as the Australian Open and the AFL Grand Final.
Sydney's great rival
Melbourne and Sydney have long competed for the title of Australia's biggest city. Both have around five million people in their metropolitan areas, and Melbourne is often ranked among the world's most liveable cities.
Did You Know?
Melbourne's tram network is one of the largest in the world, with about 250 kilometres of double track.