The Study Area

Coburg is located 8 km north of Melbourne's CBD Its vibrant and diverse community considers the busy, popular and historic Sydney Road shopping strip the civic and social heart of their city.

Coburg is home to more than 23,000 people, many of whom come from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds and countries where English is not their first language. Moreland's cultural richness is apparent in its colourful streetscapes and shopping experiences, with produce and products from around the world. Festivals, community events and the sheer array of groups and networks around the suburb reflect Coburg’s cultural diversity and its community pride and connectedness.

The Coburg Initiative study area is about 35 hectares in size, of which 12 hectares is owned or managed by Council and includes:

• Sydney Road Coburg Shopping Centre including major supermarket chains
• Public transport facilities and services
• Moreland City Council Municipal Offices
• Coburg Primary and St Paul’s Catholic Primary Schools
• Coburg Library
• Coburg City Oval
• Merri Community Health Services Limited
• Coburg Leisure Centre
• A variety of retail premises
• Churches, representing a number of denominations
• Regional community services