Is Victoria in Sydney or Melbourne?

4 min.

For those new to Australia or just curious about its geography, questions about the relationship between Victoria, Sydney, and Melbourne are common. The short answer is: Victoria is not in Sydney or Melbourne. Victoria is one of Australia’s six states, while Sydney and Melbourne are cities in two different states.

In this article, we’ll explore the geography of Australia, clarify the distinctions between Victoria, Sydney, and Melbourne, and delve into why this question arises. Whether you’re planning a visit or just brushing up on your knowledge, this guide will provide everything you need to understand the relationship between these iconic locations.

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Where Is Victoria?

Victoria is a state in southeastern Australia, bordered by New South Wales to the north, South Australia to the west, and the Southern Ocean to the south. It is the smallest state on mainland Australia but one of the most densely populated.

Key Facts About Victoria:

Capital City: Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city and cultural hub.
Area: 227,444 square kilometers, making it smaller than most Australian states but densely populated.
Population: Over 6.7 million people as of 2023, with the majority living in Melbourne.
Notable Features:
- The stunning Great Ocean Road.
- The picturesque Yarra Valley wine region.
- Iconic sporting events like the Australian Open and Melbourne Cup.

For more information about Victoria’s attractions, visit Visit Victoria.

What Is Sydney?

Sydney is a city in New South Wales, a state located north of Victoria. It is Australia’s largest city and one of the most iconic cities in the world, known for its vibrant lifestyle, stunning harbor, and landmarks like the Sydney Opera House.

Key Facts About Sydney:

State: New South Wales (NSW).
Population: Over 5.3 million people as of 2023.
Area: 12,367 square kilometers, making it a sprawling metropolitan area.
Highlights:
- The famous Bondi Beach.
- The Sydney Harbour Bridge.
- A thriving economy and cultural scene.

Learn more about Sydney’s attractions on the Destination NSW website.

What Is Melbourne?

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria and the second-largest city in Australia. Known for its cultural vibrancy, coffee culture, and world-class events, Melbourne is often regarded as Australia’s cultural heart.

Key Facts About Melbourne:

State: Victoria.
Population: Over 5 million people as of 2023.
Highlights:
- The Laneways of Melbourne, filled with street art and cafes.
- Iconic venues like the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
- A thriving arts and culinary scene.

Why Is There Confusion Between Victoria, Sydney, and Melbourne?

The confusion often arises because:

Victoria and Melbourne Are Closely Linked: Many people associate Melbourne with Victoria since it’s the state’s capital and largest city.
Sydney’s Global Fame: As Australia’s most internationally recognized city, some may mistakenly believe it encompasses other major landmarks or states.
Lack of Familiarity with Australian Geography: For those outside Australia, understanding the distinction between states and cities can be tricky, especially given the country’s vast size.

How Do Victoria, Sydney, and Melbourne Compare?

Geographical Size

Victoria: 227,444 square kilometers.
Sydney (Greater Sydney Region): 12,367 square kilometers.
Melbourne (Greater Melbourne Region): 9,992 square kilometers.

Population

Victoria (State): 6.7 million.
Sydney (City): 5.3 million.
Melbourne (City): 5 million.

Economy

Victoria: Known for its diverse economy, including finance, education, manufacturing, and tourism.
Sydney: A global financial hub, especially in banking and technology.
Melbourne: Renowned for creative industries, sports, and a strong service economy.

Key Takeaways About Victoria, Sydney, and Melbourne

Victoria is a State, Not a City: It encompasses Melbourne, several regional towns, and stunning natural landmarks.
Sydney Is a City in New South Wales: It is not part of Victoria or Melbourne.
Melbourne Is Victoria’s Capital: A vibrant city often mistaken for being larger than the state itself due to its global influence.

FAQs About Victoria, Sydney, and Melbourne

Is Melbourne Bigger Than Sydney?

In terms of land area, Sydney is slightly larger. Population-wise, Sydney currently edges out Melbourne, but Melbourne is projected to overtake Sydney within the next decade due to rapid growth.

Can You Drive From Victoria to Sydney?

Yes! The drive from Melbourne (Victoria’s capital) to Sydney takes about 8–10 hours along the Hume Highway, covering approximately 880 kilometers.

What Makes Victoria Unique?

Victoria is celebrated for its cultural vibrancy, stunning coastal roads, and rich sporting culture. Its compact size allows for easy exploration of regional gems like Ballarat, Bendigo, and the Mornington Peninsula.

Conclusion: Is Victoria in Sydney or Melbourne?

Victoria is neither in Sydney nor Melbourne. It is a state in southeastern Australia, with Melbourne as its capital city. Sydney, on the other hand, is a city located in the neighboring state of New South Wales. Understanding these distinctions is key to appreciating Australia’s rich geography and cultural diversity.

Whether you’re planning a visit or just expanding your knowledge, knowing the difference between these iconic places helps you better navigate Australia’s unique landscape.

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