Quick facts about Victoria
Victoria is a state in the south-east corner of Australia. Melbourne
is the capital of Victoria. Here are some quick facts about Victoria:
- The population is approximately 4.5 million
- It is the second largest state in Victoria
- Victoria is represented by 140 different nations, thus
highlighting the diversity of cultures and nationalities embraced in
this state
- 455 of the Victorian population were either born overseas or have one parent born overseas.
- 20% of Victorians speak a language other than English
- Regional Victoria is an important part of the state. Regional
Victoria has many natural and wildlife wonders : country and beach
resorts, alpines, the Great ocean Road, the Apostles and other natural
wonders
Quick facts about Melbourne
Melbourne is consistently rated as the world’s most livable city, by
the Economist Intelligence Unit. This is based on its infra-structure,
and a generally safe, secure environment. Melbourne is a vibrant,
cosmopolitan city rich in culture and traditions. Melbourne is renowned
for its:
- Rich cultural and musical festivals. Melbourne hosts international cultural events and arts festivals
- Thriving dining and restaurant culture with unique laneways and cafes
- World class shopping
- Lush and attractive parks and gardens such as Fitzroy Gardens, Royal Botanic Gardens, and Treasury Gardens
- Entertainment venues with vibrant night-life: theatres, bars and night-clubs
- World class recreation and sporting facilities. Melbourne hosts major international sporting events
For more information about Melbourne please visit the following websites:
Visit Melbourne www.visitvictoria.com.au
www.studyinaustralia.gov.au
www.studyinmelbourne.gov.au
www.melbournecitycouncil.gov.au
Climate
It can take time to adjust to different climate. Melbourne’s weather
is variable and sometimes there can be four seasons in one day.
Overall, however, Melbourne enjoys four distinct seasons as outlined in the table below:
|
SEASON |
MONTHS
|
TEMPERATURE RANGE
|
OTHER
|
|
Summer
|
December , January and February
|
25-35 degrees Celsius
|
Summers are warm and dry. Occasionally there are
very hot days..Advice is to take protection from the sun and be
aware of bush-fires in some areas of regional Victoria
|
|
Autumn
|
March, April and May
|
18 -24 degrees Celsius
|
Mostly Mild conditions
|
|
Winter
|
June, July and August
|
6 – 14 degrees Celsius
|
Mostly Cool with the highest rainfall of all seasons
|
|
Spring
|
September , October and November
|
15 – 22 degrees Celsius
|
Mostly Mild and sunny
|
Daylight Saving in October each year, daylight saving begins
in Victoria, when clocks are moved one hour forward at 2:00 am EST.
Daylight saving ends in March/ April when clocks are turned back one
hour at 2: 00am EST.
Drought and water saving. From time to time Victoria experiences
drought conditions with lower than average rainfalls. As a result
water restrictions occur and water has to be used wisely. For further
information visit www.ourwaterourfuture
Weather information. For further information on the weather please visit the Bureau of meteorology website. www.bom.gov.au
Clothing
Melbourne’s weather is generally temperate and mild. You will need a
range of clothing to cater for the distinct seasons. In winter you
will need thick woolen jumpers, coats, scarves, hats and gloves. In
summer, light clothes are desirable.
As the weather can be unpredictable from time to time it is recommended
that layers of clothing be worn, especially in the colder months.
Students in Australia generally dress casually, unless there is a
special event. It is advisable that students bring basic clothing as a
large range of affordable clothing can be readily purchased here in
Melbourne in places such as Smith Street in Fitzroy, Bridge Road,
Richmond or the many direct factory outlets (DFO)