Latest news with #SydneyHarbourBridge
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Transport Minister defends Sydney Harbour Bridge toll rise as a local councillor labelled the increase as 'theft'
A councillor has slammed the NSW government's announcement that it will be increase tolls on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. From July 1, motorists will see fees rise by 3.2 per cent, paying $4.41 for southbound trips at peak times - an increase of 14 cents. Those paying the off-peak day rate will see the toll go up by 10 cents to $3.30. Drivers crossing during the evenings will pay $2.76, or an increase of nine cents. Mosman councillor Roy Bendall told The Sydney Morning Herald the toll increase was 'theft' from his constituents on Sydney's lower north shore. 'We are being billed for our suffering,' he said, referencing disruptions caused by upgrades to Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway. 'We paid off the Harbour Bridge in the '80s – this is insane and it's inequitable.' Sydneysiders took to social media to unleash on the decision to raise the toll, echoing Mr Bendall's sentiment. 'They didn't pay for the Harbour Bridge for 50 years! Why should we pay for their tolls? That is robbery,' one person said. Another said: 'The toll increase that saves you money. Right. Like the cheapest power that costs more.' NSW Transport Minister John Graham said on Saturday the rise of toll fees was to help fund the state government's weekly toll cap. Introduced in January 2024, drivers who spend more than $60 in tolls per week can claim the excess back under the so-called 'toll cap' to help residents in western Sydney. 'That toll relief (is) making a big difference to people's pockets, but we need to fund it, and this money will go straight into that,' he said. 'Drivers from the west are often sitting in traffic, their tolls are going up. 'Similarly, drivers coming across other crossings will have similar arrangements. This is one approach across the city for everyone. 'Tolls are continuing to increase under the contracts the former government signed in the west. We are just making sure that everyone's paying their share.' Mr Bendall said it subsidised a toll cap which is mostly used in western Sydney. Tolls on the bridge were last raised in 2023 by 6.8 per cent, which was the first time in 14 years.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Key road exposes brutal Sydney divide
Tolls on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and tunnel will rise for the second time in 16 years to help bridge the brutal divide forcing Western Sydney commuters to fork out up to $39 for round trips to the city. A weekday peak hour return trip from Liverpool or Campbelltown to the CBD costs commuters about $39.10 in tolls, while those travelling from Blacktown to the city are similarly out $38.03. Back in 2009, the same trips cost about three times less. The fees are in stark contrast to those travelling return from Neutral Bay to the city, who pay just $4.41 to cross the iconic bridge — only a $0.41 increase since 2009. The NSW government have now announced tolls on the Harbour Bridge and tunnel will rise for the second time since 2009 in a bid to give motorists hit hard by the road fees some relief. The peak hour weekday toll to use the key road in the CBD will rise by about 14 cents from July 1. Commuters travelling on weekdays between 6.30am and 9.30am, and 4pm to 7pm will be $4.41 out of pocket when the change comes into effect, compared to the current toll of $4.27. All extra cash collected will be put into the government's $60 toll cap, which allows eligible drivers to pay a maximum of $60 per week on tolls. NSW Transport Minister John Graham said the move would provide much needed relief to those in Western Sydney, who pay the highest tolls. 'A toll rise on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel remains a rare occurrence, with this marking only the second time in 16 years since they have gone up,' Mr Graham said. 'In our city's west they have gone up every quarter or every year. 'We are focused on delivering a fairer tolling network and this inflation-linked increase will go into toll relief that has become so important to motorists who pay the highest toll bills in the suburbs of Western Sydney.' The $60 cap, introduced in January last year, is set to expire at the beginning of 2026.
News.com.au
3 days ago
- Business
- News.com.au
Road tolls to rise on iconic bridge to address brutal Sydney divide
Tolls on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and tunnel will rise for the second time in 16 years to help bridge the brutal divide forcing Western Sydney commuters to fork out up to $39 for round trips to the city. A weekday peak hour return trip from Liverpool or Campbelltown to the CBD costs commuters about $39.10 in tolls, while those travelling from Blacktown to the city are similarly out $38.03. Back in 2009, the same trips cost about three times less. The fees are in stark contrast to those travelling return from Neutral Bay to the city, who pay just $4.41 to cross the iconic bridge — only a $0.41 increase since 2009. The NSW government have now announced tolls on the Harbour Bridge and tunnel will rise for the second time since 2009 in a bid to give motorists hit hard by the road fees some relief. The peak hour weekday toll to use the key road in the CBD will rise by about 14 cents from July 1. Commuters travelling on weekdays between 6.30am and 9.30am, and 4pm to 7pm will be $4.41 out of pocket when the change comes into effect, compared to the current toll of $4.27. All extra cash collected will be put into the government's $60 toll cap, which allows eligible drivers to pay a maximum of $60 per week on tolls. NSW Transport Minister John Graham said the move would provide much needed relief to those in Western Sydney, who pay the highest tolls. 'A toll rise on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel remains a rare occurrence, with this marking only the second time in 16 years since they have gone up,' Mr Graham said. 'In our city's west they have gone up every quarter or every year. 'We are focused on delivering a fairer tolling network and this inflation-linked increase will go into toll relief that has become so important to motorists who pay the highest toll bills in the suburbs of Western Sydney.'
Man of Many
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Man of Many
Vivid Sydney Guide 2025: Best Things to Do During the Festival of Light
Back for another year, Vivid Sydney 2025 will run from Friday, 23rd May to Saturday, 14th June. The free-to-attend event will transform the harbour city into a light exhibition celebrating creativity, innovation, and technology for an estimated 3.48+ million attendees. This year's theme is 'Vivid Sydney, Dream', and names like Nigella Lawson, Sigur Rós and Beth Gibbons will headline events throughout the festival. More than a few RGB light displays, this is a chance to get out and connect with friends, family, and Sydney's food and drinks culture through events and installations with innovators and leaders in key categories. The installations will be displayed around the world-famous harbour and stretch eight kilometres from Circular Quay to Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, and Central Station. In this guide, we're again putting together a list of our favourite attractions and things to do at Vivid 2025. Let's take a look! Vivid Sydney 2025 will run from Friday, 23rd May to Saturday, 14th June 2025. The lights will be switched on at 6 pm every night. Key locations across hosting Vivid light installations and performances include: Sydney Opera House Sydney Harbour Bridge The Rocks Darling Harbour Barangaroo Martin Place Luna Park This is a busy event, and we've included some details about how to get there below. NOTE: Vivid will still go ahead if it rains. However, due to the current weather in Sydney and torrential rain events, some parts of the event may be temporarily closed, according to the official website. Some specific events may also be postponed or cancelled for safety reasons. Getting There The best way to attend Vivid is by public transport. You might not be a public transport type of person, but additional services will run throughout the festival, there are road closures, and Uber prices will go through the roof. It's advised to arrive early before the lights are switched on at 6 pm, to avoid congestion, and we also suggest that you leave your car at home due to road closures and parking restrictions. Here's what's happening with NSW Public Transport services during Vivid Sydney 2025: Trains : Run regularly to the city on all lines from early morning until late Extra services on weekends Closest stations to the light walk are Central, Town Hall, Wynyard and Circular Quay : Run regularly to the city on all lines from early morning until late Buses : Run regularly to and from the city on weekdays and weekends Additional services are running on busier nights (weekends) : Run regularly to and from the city on weekdays and weekends Ferrys : Will get busy, and there are often long queues at wharves We recommend leaving plenty of time to get on the ferry and get home : Will get busy, and there are often long queues at wharves Sydney Metro : High-frequency and runs between Tallawong Station and Chatswood Station Connect to Sydney's Hills District and North Shore : High-frequency and runs between Tallawong Station and Chatswood Station Light Rail : Runs regularly on weekdays and weekends in Sydney CBD, South East and Inner West Makes stops within a short walking distance of Vivid Sydney locations : Runs regularly on weekdays and weekends in Sydney CBD, South East and Inner West To make the most of your night once you arrive, we've curated a Vivid 2025 walking guide at the end of this article to help you find your way around. Vivid Sydney 2025 | Image: Supplied Vivid Sydney 2025 | Image: Supplied Vivid Sydney 2025 | Image: Supplied Vivid Sydney 2025 | Image: Supplied What's New at Vivid Sydney 2025 There are major program changes for Vivid Sydney 2025. Gone is the drone show, gone is Dark Spectrum in Wynyard Train tunnels, and gone is Lightscape at the Royal Botanic Garden. The Light Walk will return for Vivid Sydney 2025, and there are more food activations around the city, but beyond the celebrity talks and additional lighting setups around Martin Place, it seems there aren't as many things happening. These are some key highlights for Vivid Sydney 2025 across Light, Food, Music, and Ideas (Events and activations). We've explained them in further detail at the end of this article, including a walking guide to make the most of your time at the event. Light : Colour the City at ASN Clocktower House of Romance: Dreams Collide at Customs House The Lucid Dream Collective at Challis House Stem at Cadmans Cottage Bloom at Argyle Cut Fantasmagoria at Bond Building Cygnus at Nawi Cove Lumina Dreams at Barangaroo Metro Gardens : Food : Vivid Fire Kitchen Hollywood Dreaming Luke Nguyen's Dream Mist at Botanic House Nigella Lawson Dreaming Skies FoodLab x Vivid Sydney Native Food Experience at Parliament House : Music : Tumbalong Nights Vivid Sydney Supper Club : Ideas (Events) : Stranger Things Firetalk Haus of Horror Dream Logic : Remember that these are just a handpicked selection of the new highlights from Vivid 2025, and there are more events at the event than we've outlined here. House of Romance: Dreams Collide at Customs House | Image: Supplied / Vivid Free Events and Activations at Vivid Sydney 2025 Light Walk When: Every night, 23 May–14 June, 6 pm–11 pm The Light Walk spans eight kilometres, linking Circular Quay to Central Station via The Rocks, Walsh Bay, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour. Along the way, you'll see large-scale projections across iconic buildings, hands-on installations, and a few surprises tucked into laneways and courtyards. This route is ideal for first-time visitors and a must-do even if you're a Vivid veteran. Tumbalong Nights When: Fridays and Saturdays, 23 May–14 June, 6 pm–10 pm Every weekend of Vivid will see Tumbalong Park become a family-friendly music zone with live DJs, performers, and illuminated sculptures. Kids can take part in the Glow Crew Parade at 7 pm, wearing light-up costumes provided on site. The stage lineup includes emerging local artists with plenty of space for dancing, or you can sit back, relax, with a snack nearby, and enjoy the show. Sydney Film Festival When: 4th to 15th June 2025, various sessions from 5 pm As part of Vivid, the festival hosts a selection of open-air film screenings across Sydney's harbourside precincts. Expect a mix of cult classics, documentaries and short films projected onto outdoor screens at Barangaroo and the Opera House forecourt. Some locations require registration due to limited space, but most sessions are free. Vivid Fire Kitchen | Image: Supplied / Destination NSW Vivid Fire Kitchen When: Daily, 6 pm–10 pm Set along The Goods Line in Haymarket, Vivid Fire Kitchen combines open-flame cooking with live fire shows. Serve everything from grilled skewers to charcoal-roasted vegetables and desserts like flame-seared churros, the over 20 food stalls are sure to satisfy. And for those that love dinner and a show, check out the nightly demonstrations from guest chefs and fire artists performing beside custom-built pits and sculptures. Hollywood Dreaming When: Daily, 6 pm–11 pm Customs House becomes an open-air cinema, with scenes from well-known films projected onto the building. The Dreaming Marquee, styled like an old movie sign, will no doubt be a popular photo spot. While those looking for nostalgia can enjoy the rotating mix of classic and cult films, screening every night from 8 pm. Stranger Things: The Experience | Image: Supplied / Luna Park Ticketed Events and Activations at Vivid Sydney 2025 Stranger Things: The Experience When: 23 May–14 June, 5 pm–midnight Where: Overseas Passenger Terminal Price: from $45 Step into Hawkins, Indiana, with a walk-through experience featuring live actors from the hit Netflix show, 80s-themed sets, and interactive elements like a 'Demogorgon detector.' This is the festival's biggest franchise tie-in and ideal for fans of the show. In Conversation With Martha Stewart When: 6 June, 7 pm Where: Sydney Town Hall Price: From $95 The lifestyle icon joins the Vivid Ideas program to share insights from her ever-expanding career. Expect straight-talking advice, lessons from her decades-long brand, and a Q&A segment with the audience. Unscripted & Unfiltered with Nick Offerman & Megan Mullally When: 2 June, 6.30 pm Where: City Recital Hall Price: $75 The comedy duo shares stories and reflections in an evening of relaxed storytelling and audience Q&A. Tickets include access to a post-show gathering with themed drinks. Beyond the Summit With Jimmy Chin When: 2 June, 6.30 pm Where: City Recital Hall Price: $75 Acclaimed mountaineer and filmmaker Jimmy Chin recounts the risks and triumphs of past climbing expeditions, supported by immersive visuals and behind-the-scenes footage. Pale Jay at Vivid LIVE When: 5 June, 8 pm Where: Sydney Opera House Concert Hall Price: $65 Known for his masked persona and genre-mixing style, Pale Jay delivers a visual-heavy live set blending jazz, soul, and lo-fi electronic sounds. Expect moody lighting and layered instrumentals. Native Food Experience When: 7 June, 6 pm Where: Parliament House Courtyard Price: $90 This ticketed dining experience explores native Australian ingredients through a multi-course menu. Highlights include lemon myrtle kangaroo skewers and wattleseed desserts, with commentary from First Nations chefs and local winemakers. Butter Beats n Eats: YAWDOESITALL When: June 14th at 8:30 pm Where: Butter Surry Hills, 6 Hunt Street Surry Hills, NSW 2010 Price: $22.49 A closing-night party combining hip-hop, street eats and neon décor. Entry includes a set by YAWDOESITALL, food specials, and glow accessories at the door (it's Vivid after all). Haus of Horror Presents Poltergeist When: 1 June, 9 pm Where: Luna Park Phantom Funhouse Price: $50 'They're here!' Luna Park's funhouse gets a horror makeover with live scare actors and visuals based on the 1982 film Poltergeist. Expect flashing lights, eerie soundscapes, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Lighting of the Sails: Kiss of Light by David McDiarmid | Image: Supplied / Vivid Must-See Light Installations at Vivid Sydney 2025 The Vivid Sydney light walk stretches nearly eight kilometres from Sydney Opera House to Central Station. Our walking guide below will guide you through the light exhibition along the way, highlighting the best so you don't miss any of the most important stops. We highly recommend starting at the Sydney Opera House and completing the Light Walk in the stages we've outlined below. You'll need two (or even three) nights to complete the full light walk and see every attraction along the way, but you can comfortably make it from Circular Quay to Barangaroo in two or three nights, depending on fitness levels and size of the crowds. Soleil Nuit at Alfred Street, Sydney | Image: Supplied / Vivid Sydney Opera House to Circular Quay Distance: Less than 1 km Number of attractions: 5 Must-see light installations along the way: Our walking map of Vivid Sydney starts from the steps of the Sydney Opera House. Here, you'll struggle to miss the Lighting of the Sails by David McDiarmid, which is projected on the Sydney Opera House. This is one of the largest exhibitions of the event, paying tribute to the artist on the 30th anniversary of his death with seven minutes of his best work, demonstrating how he used irony, humour and fierce intimacy to celebrate diverse gender and sexual identities. Once you've seen House of Romance: Dreams Collide, Symphony of the Dreaming, and Soleil Nuit, you'll be ready to start the next step of the walking tour, which runs through The Rocks. BONUS: Martin Place and CBD Distance: Less than 1 km Number of attractions: 4 Beams display flowers up the side of Martin Place buildings at Flowers' Power Projected onto the iconic Commercial Traveller's Association (CTA) building, BioDream is epic The Lucid Dream Collective transforms a photo of you with AI, adding it to the projection You'll also find a Glyph here, one of five glowing white LED sculptures around the festival Martin Place and the Sydney CBD will host a few light attractions for Vivid 2025. New for this year, it's a good place to check out before you continue your journey to Barangaroo or The Rocks. Here you'll find Flowers' Power, which displays cartoon-like flowers that sprout halfway up the buildings of Martin Place. It's surely going to be another favourite for social media content creators, and that means it will be busy, very busy. King Dingo by Vincent Namatjira on the façade of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia | Image: Supplied / Vivid Circular Quay, Through The Rocks Distance: 1.5 km Number of attractions: 7 Must-see light installations along the way: Crafted from mirrored, tunnel-like trapezoid-shaped bricks, Emergence will be very popular First Nations artist Vincent Namatjira will premiere King Dingo, seen in the image above This interactive installation, Stem, will grow a 'dream-tree' based on the cadence of the voice Colour The City lights up the ASN Clock Tower with an interactive and community-made projection You'll find Bloom inside the Argyle Cut tunnel, creating a trance-like display of flora and fauna Error is a massive, swirling and illuminated disc that appears to hover, and it's hard to miss Look for the trippy Sweet Dreams installation on the Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylons Still one of the most popular areas to view the lights at Vivid Sydney, The Rocks is a hub of seven light installations. This includes one of the largest displays of the event, King Dingo by Vincent Namatjira, which will be displayed on the façade of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and will attract a large crowd every night. There's not much standing room here on the foreshore of the harbour, so if this area is busy, check out nearby installations like Colour The City, Stem, and Bloom in the Argyle Cut tunnel. You'll be able to catch this one on your way through the tunnel to Barangaroo. Lumina Dream by Ming Zhang | Image: Supplied / Vivid The Rocks to Barangaroo Distance: 2.6 km Number of attractions: 9 Must-see light installations along the way: While areas like Circular Quay and the Opera House forecourt are some of the most popular places to view the Vivid Lights, Barangaroo is home to the largest number of installations, which is good because it's easier to move around and typically not as crowded. Highlights from this area include Cygnus, Lumina Dream, and Fly to the Moon, sure to be a crowd favourite for social media. What's not to like about a giant inflatable moon? Check out the six towering geometric obelisks of Trispheric Garden while you're here. The Dream Herd | Image: Supplied Barangaroo to Tumbalong Park Distance: 2.1 km Number of attractions: 11 Must-see light installations along the way: Start your walk at Lumina Dreams near Barangaroo Station, a prism-lined tunnel that shifts colour as you move through it. Head toward the foreshore to find Tunku and Ngaadi, glowing sculptures honouring First Nations cultures, reflected across the water from the Maritime Museum. As you enter Darling Harbour, Samsung's Space to Dream transforms Cockle Bay with towering digital waterfalls. Above the boardwalk, Entwine suspends 168 LED tubes, while Drawn in Light creates a dynamic chandelier of hand-sketched shapes in motion. The Cloud Swing is an interactive favourite, encouraging playful group photos. For something sporty, check out Kickit Team Tennis, where players hit glowing balls across a pulsating LED court. Follow the path through the Elysian Collection, a set of glowing corridors, before finishing at Dream Scene, an illuminated maze designed for younger visitors. But that won't stop us adults from having a blast. Poem Booth | Image: Vivid Tumbalong Park to Central Station Distance: 1.3 km Number of attractions: 3 Must-see light installations and events along the way: Telephone Neon Dreams Starscape Tunnel Fireplaces QUASAR Eye of the Beholder Begin at Telephone, a glowing booth where picking up the receiver (yes, that's what it was called back in the day) triggers short, poetic voice clips. Then pass through Neon Dreams, a series of curved neon light arches, and continue to Starscape Tunnel, a walkway lined with LED starscapes pulsing in sync with ambient music. By the Powerhouse Museum, stop at Poem Booth, where AI creates unique verse inspired by the people and activity around it. A few steps ahead, a red neon sign reads 'Humanity,' flickering to occasionally spell 'Humility'. A subtle, yet poignant prompt to pause and reflect. End your walk with a final visit to Fireplaces in Tumbalong Park. Large flame sculptures and fire barrels add warmth and atmosphere, while Vivid Fire Kitchen nearby serves snacks and drinks to finish your night. What our experts say: Get in touch with your poetic side at 'Poem Booth' and witness poetry machines powered by Artificial Intelligence translate what they see in front of them into unique pieces of poetry, prompting you to ask what creativity now looks like. Pass by the Powerhouse Museum and spy a red neon sign 'Humanity' that appears to flicker, switching between the words 'Humanity' and 'Humility'. Before heading home, catch 'Fireplaces' at Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour and Vivid Fire Kitchen at The Goods Line and find giant fire pits, fire sculptures, flame throwers and fire barrels. Bennelong | Image: Supplied Places to Eat During Vivid Sydney 2025 Best Restaurants in Circular Quay If you're hanging around Vivid, then you'll want to check out our list of the best restaurants near Circular Quay. Any of these restaurants on our list offers you a seat at the most picturesque dining locations in Sydney. However, it's not just the views that will grab your attention, this area is a melting pot for some of the best restaurants in Sydney. We've been lucky enough to sample food from all of the restaurants on this list, often thanks to our friends in the industry. And while our round-up includes some fine-dining options that'll blow you away in both flavours and price, we've also done our best to include some value-for-money options for date night. Best Restaurants in Barangaroo Head around through The Rocks during Vivid and you'll come across the new dining precinct in Barangaroo. It's home to plenty of cuisine options, with everything from Korean BBQ to great steak and seafood. The Crown dominates the peninsula, however, it's home to some great restaurants, with Nobu, a'Mare, and Woodcut being the standouts for us. If you're looking for a more relaxed fair, check out the list below, which includes Ume Burger, Belle's Chicken, for all you seafood lovers, and more. Best Romantic Restaurants in Sydney Vivid Sydney can be a great excuse for date night, so we've rounded up some of our favourite romantic restaurants in Sydney. Not every restaurant on this list is located in the middle of Circular Quay. However, if you're already in the city, do some bar hopping and make your way into any of these restaurants as you explore the Sydney CBD. If you had to splurge on a special occasion, get your bookings in now for Bennelong (inside the Sydney Opera House) before tables book out. Cruise Bar | Image: Supplied Places to Drink During Vivid Sydney Best Bars in Circular Quay Hustling and bustling, Circular Quay is home to a great selection of bars, and we've sifted through the best to remove all the tourist traps. Being only a stone's throw from the heart of Sydney's best bar scene in The Rocks, there are plenty of spots to choose from at the end of Sydney Harbour. If you're looking for a quick drink, we can't recommend the cocktails at Double Deuce Lounge enough. However, if you're looking to escape the crowds, head down to Apollonia. Our list of the Best Bars in Circular Quay Best Bars in The Rocks Stepping into The Rocks is like taking a step back in time, both figuratively and literally. There's a bar or pub on every corner, but choosing a list of the best is something of a challenge. In doing so, we've left off the pubs, hotels, and clubs. Instead, we've nailed a list of bars and lounges that specialise in cocktails, drinks, and spirits like our favourite whisky. If you're looking for a quiet place to hang out away from the crowds during Vivid, our list of the best Bars in The Rocks has you covered. Our list of the Best Bars in The Rocks Best Bars in Sydney If you're looking further afield, check out our list of the best bars in Sydney. With plenty of knowledge about all things whisky, beer, and cocktails, our team has ventured into some of the coolest, fanciest, and hard-to-find joints in the harbour city. Of course, having a few friends in the industry means we've been able to explore most of these bars at our own pace, basking in the atmosphere, trying the food on offer, and most importantly, the high level of mixology shown at every bar listed below. Our list of the Best Bars in Sydney What is Vivid? Vivid Sydney is an annual festival that celebrates creativity, innovation and technology. Owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the three-week-long event runs primarily out of the Sydney Opera House, transforming Sydney into a spectacle of colour and light. Staged for its 15th year in 2025, Vivid Sydney sees activations and installations from the world's brightest light artists, alongside live music performances, discussions with thought leaders, and innovative experiences from food creatives. Over the full 23-night event, more than 3 million visitors are expected to attend, significantly bolstering the domestic economy and swelling New South Wales' international image. In 2023, a record 3.48 million people attended the festival from NSW, interstate and around the world, injecting a whopping $206 million into the NSW economy. You'll also like:
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Yahoo
15 Largest Cities in Australia, Ranked by Population
Australia, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is home to some of the most dynamic cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Each of the largest cities in Australia showcases a unique blend of natural beauty, modern architecture and diverse communities. From the iconic skyline of Sydney to the cultural heart of Melbourne, Australia's largest cities offer a mix of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Here are the continent's most populous cities, based on data from World Population Review. Sydney is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Known for its beautiful beaches — including Bondi and Manly — the city offers a vibrant arts scene, world-class dining and a thriving economy. Melbourne is also considered Australia's cultural capital, known for its coffee culture, street art and live music scene. Landmarks like Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne Cricket Ground highlight the city's appeal. Its diverse neighborhoods and laneway cafes add to its charm. Melbourne was briefly Australia's most populous city, due to an influx of international students and immigrants, but then Sydney regained its title. Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is a sunny city along the Brisbane River. Known for its relaxed vibe, South Bank Parklands and thriving arts scene, it's also a gateway to popular tourist destinations like the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. Located on Australia's west coast, Perth is known for its pristine beaches, Kings Park and Botanic Garden and the nearby Swan Valley wine region. The city's mix of urban sophistication and access to nature makes it a standout destination for residents and visitors alike. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is known for its festivals, wine regions and culinary delights. The Adelaide Fringe Festival and the Barossa Valley wine region are key highlights. The city's green spaces and beaches add to its laid-back charm. The Gold Coast is a bustling coastal city known for its stunning beaches, world-class surf spots and vibrant nightlife. Attractions like Surfers Paradise, theme parks and the Hinterland rainforest make it a top tourist destination. As Australia's capital, Canberra is a planned city known for its national landmarks, including Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial. The city's cultural institutions, such as the National Gallery of Australia and its picturesque Lake Burley Griffin make it unique. Ironically, the population of this national capital has a significantly lower population than other capital cities on this list. Located north of Sydney, Newcastle is a harbor city known for its beaches, coal exports and historic sites. The Newcastle Ocean Baths and the nearby Hunter Valley wine region make it a popular destination for locals and visitors. Located south of Sydney, Wollongong is a coastal city with stunning beaches and a vibrant arts scene. Its proximity to the Illawarra Escarpment provides opportunities for outdoor activities, while the Nan Tien Temple highlights its cultural diversity. Located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Logan City is one of Australia's most multicultural communities, known for its diverse food scene and thriving arts culture. The city is home to the Daisy Hill Conservation Park, where visitors can spot koalas in their natural habitat. With a mix of urban centers and green spaces, Logan offers a balance of modern amenities and outdoor recreation. Geelong, located southwest of Melbourne, is a growing city with a strong industrial history and a revitalized waterfront. It serves as a gateway to the Great Ocean Road, one of Australia's most scenic coastal drives. Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is known for its historic charm and natural beauty. Landmarks like Salamanca Place, Mount Wellington and the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) attract visitors from around the world. Located in northern Queensland, Townsville is a tropical city known for its access to the Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island. The Strand waterfront and Castle Hill offer stunning views and outdoor recreation opportunities. Cairns is a major gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Known for its tropical climate and adventure tourism, it's a popular destination for scuba diving, snorkeling and exploring natural wonders. Nicknamed the "Garden City," Toowoomba is known for its stunning parks and annual Carnival of Flowers. Perched on the Great Dividing Range, it offers breathtaking views and a rich history reflected in heritage buildings like the Empire Theatre. With a growing arts scene, vibrant cafés and proximity to national parks, Toowoomba blends country charm with cultural sophistication. We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor. Now That's Interest If you're familiar with Australian geography, you may have noticed that none of the biggest cities are in the Northern Territory. Darwin, capital of the Northern Territory, is also the state's largest city. The region experiences extreme heat, seasonal monsoons and vast arid landscapes, making large-scale urban development challenging. Historically, major population centers grew along the more temperate and fertile coastal regions, where trade, agriculture, and infrastructure could thrive. Original article: 15 Largest Cities in Australia, Ranked by Population Copyright © 2025 HowStuffWorks, a division of InfoSpace Holdings, LLC, a System1 Company
