Happy TravellerWelcome to Altona Meadows, a charming suburb located just 17 km (11 mi) south-west of Melbourne’s Central Business District. With a population of 18,479 as of the 2021 census, Altona Meadows is a diverse and multicultural community with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore.
One of the most popular attractions in Altona Meadows is the Cheetham Wetlands, a large park with numerous boardwalks traversing its network of lagoons. The wetlands attract large numbers of migratory birds, making it popular with walkers and birdwatchers alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a chance to spot some rare bird species, the Cheetham Wetlands are a must-visit destination.
For those interested in the history of the area, the Altona Meadows Post Office opened on 15 March 1996 as the suburb developed. Parts of Altona Meadows were previously within the City of Altona and the City of Werribee local government areas.
In terms of population, the 2016 census recorded 19,160 people in Altona Meadows. The majority of residents were born in Australia, with other common countries of birth including India, England, Malta, Vietnam, and the Philippines. English was the most commonly spoken language at home, followed by Arabic, Vietnamese, Maltese, Greek, and Italian. The most common religions were Catholicism and No Religion.
Education is also an important part of the community in Altona Meadows. The suburb is home to several primary schools, including Altona Green Primary School, Altona Meadows Primary School, and Queen of Peace Parish Primary School. These schools offer a range of specialist and support programs for students, including The Arts, Physical Education, Italian, STEM, Kitchen and Garden program, and Literacy Intervention.
Getting around Altona Meadows is easy thanks to the local bus network. Routes 411, 412, 415, 496, 498, and 944 all pass through the suburb, connecting it to nearby areas such as Laverton, Footscray, Williamstown, and Hoppers Crossing.
Altona Meadows falls within the federal electorate of Gellibrand, the state electorate of Point Cook, and the local council area of the City of Hobsons Bay. The area has traditionally been a safe seat for the Australian Labor Party, although it has seen some larger-than-average swings towards the Liberals in recent years.
Notable residents of Altona Meadows include rugby league player Greg Inglis.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a friendly and welcoming community to explore, Altona Meadows has something for everyone. Come and discover this hidden gem for yourself!
