Cracking the Code: How Many Aboriginal Folks Call Melbourne Home?
Ever wondered how many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live in the vibrant city of Melbourne? Well, buckle up, knowledge seekers, because we're about to dive into the demographic deep end (without getting too bogged down in numbers, we promise).
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| How Many Aboriginals Live In Melbourne |
The Big Picture: Melbourne's Aboriginal Mosaic
It's a fair dinkum mystery! Unlike counting koalas (though that's a noble pursuit in itself), getting a precise number on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Melbourne isn't straightforward. The census, our best shot at a headcount, relies on self-identification, and some folks choose not to identify for various reasons.
Here's the gist: The 2021 census clocked in at around 33,000 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people living in Greater Melbourne, that's roughly 3.2% of the population. Pretty impressive, right?
But wait, there's more! Melbourne has always been a meeting place for Aboriginal people from all over Australia, so the traditional lands you see on a map might not reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the city.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling if you find value.
So, Where Does This Leave Us?
Don't stress, mates! The important thing is to recognise that Melbourne has a thriving and vibrant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. They're artists, activists, teachers, entrepreneurs – you name it!
Want to learn more? Check out some of the fantastic Aboriginal-owned businesses and cultural centres around Melbourne. Not only will you be supporting the community, but you'll also discover a whole new side to this amazing city.
Frequently Asked Questions (the fun kind, not the snoozy kind)
How to immerse myself in Aboriginal culture in Melbourne?
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
There are heaps of ways! Visit a gallery showcasing Aboriginal art, catch a performance by a traditional dance troupe, or explore a beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens tour led by an Aboriginal guide.
How to be respectful when interacting with Aboriginal people?
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A simple "hello" and a willingness to learn goes a long way. Remember, there's a huge diversity within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, so treat everyone with the same respect you'd give anyone else.
Tip: Reading with intent makes content stick.
How to say hello in some of the traditional languages spoken around Melbourne?
Wominjeka (Woiwurrung language) is a great place to start – it means "welcome"!
How to find out more about the traditional owners of the land where I live?
QuickTip: Skim for bold or italicized words.
Many local councils have resources online or at libraries that can help you learn about the traditional custodians of your area.
How to support Aboriginal businesses in Melbourne?
There are directories and websites dedicated to showcasing Aboriginal-owned businesses – a quick web search will point you in the right direction!
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