In the 1970s, Melbourne’s growth rate slowed as immigration declined and economic conditions worsened. Yet, several significant changes occurred during this slow period of population growth. Several old buildings were demolished and replaced by multistory office buildings and hotels, which transformed the look of the city’s inner core. A significant improvement was made to the arterial road system. Suburban areas became critical economic centers, reducing the importance of the city’s center for retail and industrial purposes. As a result of the completion of the Victorian Arts Centre, the city’s cultural life has been dramatically enhanced.
With the end of the White Australia Policy, Melbourne saw the first significant migration of Asians since the gold rush, with large numbers of people from Vietnam, Cambodia, and China. In Melbourne, the Muslim population grew rapidly, and multicultural policies encouraged many ethnic and religious minorities to maintain their identities. The practice of mainstream Christianity declined at the same time, leading to the secularization of public life.
Below are some stunning vintage photos that will take you back to the 1970s in Melbourne
It’s McCEwans; that’s a blast from the past. Did Bunnings acquire them?
In 1993, yes. For a while, it was a Bunnings.
Isn’t that opposite Hardware St.?
Melbourne is the city I fell in love with. Travelling from the country to visit Melbourne was one of the highlights of my young life. There was something nostalgic about the sounds and sights.
Except the “Melbourne tram, 1970” photo is actually a Ballarat tram.
We really built great cars back in the day.
I hear it was also in black and white back then.