City Of Monash

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City Of Monash

The City of Monash, nestled in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, is a vibrant and dynamic local government area that boasts an area of 81.5 square kilometres and a population of 200,077 residents as of the 2016 census. With a rich tapestry of demographics, a history steeped in culture, and a commitment to education and the arts, the City of Monash is a fascinating microcosm of Melbourne’s diverse and thriving community.

A Tapestry of Diversity

Monash prides itself on its diverse and multicultural population. With 45% of its residents born overseas, compared to 29.0% across Melbourne, it is truly a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. People from more than 30 countries call Monash home, with notable Chinese, UK, Greek, Indian, Malaysian, and Sri Lankan communities enriching the city’s social fabric.

This diversity extends beyond nationality and ethnicity. Monash residents exhibit a wide range of homeownerships, with 42.4% owning their homes outright, compared to 33.1% in Melbourne and 37.3% across Australia. The city also boasts a highly educated population, with 25.1% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, outpacing the Melbourne average of 19.6%.

Population Growth and Demographics

To understand the evolution of Monash, it’s essential to examine its population growth and demographics over the years. Here’s a glimpse of selected historical census data:

  • 2006: Estimated residents on census night reached 169,280.
  • 2011: The population continued to grow, reaching 182,618.
  • 2016: The city’s population hit the 200,077 mark, showcasing its attractiveness and sustained growth.

Cultural and Language Diversity:

  • Ancestry, top responses:
    • Chinese: 19.6%
    • English: 14.7%
    • Australian: 12.7%
    • Greek: 5.7%
    • Indian: 5.5%
  • Language, top responses (other than English):
    • Mandarin: 14.7%
    • Greek: 5.7%
    • Cantonese: 4.8%
    • Sinhalese: 2.5%
    • Italian: 2.1%

Religious Affiliation:

  • Religious affiliation, top responses:
    • No religion, so described: 31.4%
    • Catholic: 18.9%
    • Not stated: 8.2%
    • Eastern Orthodox: 7.3%
    • Buddhism: 6.8%

Median Weekly Incomes:

  • Personal income:
    • Median weekly personal income: A$569
    • % of Australian median income: 85.95%
  • Family income:
    • Median weekly family income: A$1,809
    • % of Australian median income: 104.33%
  • Household income:
    • Median weekly household income: A$1,512
    • % of Australian median income: 105.15%

These statistics paint a picture of a diverse and prosperous community that values education and embraces multiculturalism.

Unveiling Monash’s History

The roots of the City of Monash run deep, with a history that predates its modern identity. The area that is now Monash was once the hunting grounds of the Bunurong people. It was later named after the esteemed World War I commander Sir John Monash. Additionally, the establishment of Monash University in 1958 played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s identity.

The City of Monash officially came into existence on December 15, 1994, as part of the Victorian state government’s efforts to streamline local governance. This merger combined a significant portion of the former City of Oakleigh with the entirety of the former City of Waverley, ushering in a new era for the region.

Townships and Localities

The City of Monash is a patchwork of vibrant townships and localities that collectively contribute to its unique character. At the 2021 census, the city’s population stood at 190,397, reflecting its continued growth and appeal. Here’s a snapshot of some of its key localities:

  • Ashwood: A residential enclave known for its community spirit and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Burwood: A locality shared with the Cities of Box Hill and Camberwell, offering a blend of residential charm and commercial vibrancy.
  • Chadstone: Home to the renowned Chadstone Shopping Centre, this locality combines retail excellence with residential comfort.
  • Clayton: With a strong educational presence, Clayton is home to Monash University and a diverse, multicultural community.
  • Glen Waverley: The beating heart of Monash, Glen Waverley serves as a cultural and commercial hub, boasting amenities and a thriving community.
  • Mount Waverley: Known for its educational institutions, Mount Waverley provides a family-friendly environment and a high quality of life.
  • Mulgrave: A dynamic and diverse community with a rich history that has contributed to Monash’s cultural fabric.
  • Notting Hill: A thriving suburb with a focus on business and accessibility.
  • Oakleigh: A vibrant locality that combines the old and the new, preserving its heritage while embracing modernity.
  • Oakleigh East: A residential enclave that offers a sense of community and comfort.
  • Oakleigh South: Known for its family-friendly environment and suburban charm.
  • Wheelers Hill: A picturesque suburb characterised by beautiful parks and green spaces, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Education

Monash takes education seriously and is home to a range of state and private schools that cater to its diverse population. Here are some of the prominent schools in the city:

State Schools:

  • Ashwood High School
  • Brentwood Secondary College
  • Glen Waverley Secondary College
  • Highvale Secondary College
  • John Monash Science School
  • Monash Tech School
  • Mount Waverley Secondary College
  • South Oakleigh Secondary College
  • Wellington Secondary College
  • Wheelers Hill Secondary College

Private Schools:

  • Avila College
  • Caulfield Grammar School (Wheelers Hill Campus)
  • Huntingtower School
  • Mazenod College
  • Oakleigh Grammar
  • Sacred Heart Girls’ College
  • Salesian College
  • Wesley College (Glen Waverley Campus)

Museum of Australian Photography

One of Monash’s premier cultural institutions is the Museum of Australian Photography (MAPh). Located at 860 Ferntree Gully Road, Wheelers Hill, MAPh is the Australian home of photography and a leading public gallery. The museum’s collection features over 2,500 photographs that reflect the history and development of Australian photographic practice from the 19th century to today. It is a vital hub for engaging with photography, offering exhibitions, education programs, and preserving iconic images.

An example of the museum’s contributions to the cultural landscape is the “Speak the Wind” exhibition by Hoda Afshar, held from April 29 to May 22, 2022, as part of the PHOTO 2022: International Festival of Photography. This exhibition documented the landscapes and people of the islands of Hormuz, Qeshm, and Hengam, in the Persian Gulf off the south coast of Iran, showcasing the power of visual storytelling.

Sporting Enthusiasm

Monash is not just a hub for education and culture; it’s also a place where sports thrive. The city is home to various sporting teams, spanning soccer, Australian rules football, and netball, fostering a sense of community and teamwork. Here are some notable sporting teams:

Soccer:

  • Oakleigh Cannons
  • Monash City FC
  • Mount Waverley Soccer Club
  • Eastern Lions SC
  • Brandon Park SC
  • Glen Waverley SC

Australian Rules Football:

  • Oakleigh Chargers
  • Chadstone Football Club
  • Monash University Football Club
  • Waverley Blues
  • Waverley Park Hawks JFC
  • Ajax Football Club

Netball:

  • Waverley Netball

Public Libraries

Monash values the importance of knowledge and learning, evident in its extensive public library system. The Monash Public Library Service operates through six branch libraries located in Clayton, Glen Waverley, Mount Waverley, Mulgrave, Oakleigh, and Wheelers Hill, in addition to a Home Library Service. These libraries provide residents with access to a vast collection of books, resources, and programs that foster a love for reading and lifelong learning.

The City of Monash is a testament to the power of diversity, education, and cultural enrichment. Its dynamic population, strong commitment to education, vibrant cultural scene, and thriving sports community make it a place of promise and possibility. Whether you’re exploring its multicultural neighbourhoods, engaging with its arts and photography scene, or cheering on its sports teams, Monash welcomes all with open arms, celebrating the richness of life in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs.