Melbourne remains the only city in the world to have this week topped the Economist’s Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Global Liveability Index for the fifth year in a row.
The annual ranking looks at living conditions in 140 cities across the globe by assigning a rating across five broad categories, including: stability; healthcare; culture and environment; education; and infrastructure.
Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria said: “Once again Melbourne has come out on top confirming we really do have the best of everything in Victoria. Melbourne offers an enviable lifestyle – some of the best sports and major events, the best artists and creative minds, the best universities and schools, the best entrepreneurs and ideas, world-class and well-connected infrastructure and a strong economy – what’s not to love!”
“To keep Victoria number one we need to keep investing in the future. In 2015-16 the Victorian Government has invested A$20 billion in major transport infrastructure and a further A$5.4 billion to health and education to create more jobs and grow our economy,” he added.
Ranked first, Melbourne cemented its positions with a perfect score of 100 in healthcare, education and infrastructure and within the culture and environment basket, a perfect 100 on sport underlining the Victorian Government’s continued investment in these priority areas.
Melbourne has consistently appeared in the top five cities since the ranking’s inception in 2002, and has taken out the top spot in the index for the past five years in a row.
John Butler, Commissioner for Victoria in the Middle East, Africa and Turkey, said: “Melbourne has established itself as a key destination for companies, including those from the Middle East, that are looking to expand their global footprint into Australasia and Asia. Our high quality of life, cultural diversity, world-class infrastructure, high-tech manufacturing and investment in research and development makes Melbourne an attractive place for people to live and work.”
In the five years that Melbourne has retained its number one spot, international visitors to Victoria have increased by 8.0% per year, compared the national average of 4.7% per annum.
Similarly, tourist expenditure in Victoria increased by 8.8% compared to a 5.2% per annum increase nationally.
“Our recent brand overhaul to Brand Victoria will also ensure Victoria and its magnificent capital Melbourne – remain the envy of the world when it comes to its economy, its cultural diversity, world class events and liveability,” added Mr. Andrews.
