Melbourne's Fastest-Growing Immigrant Community Is ...

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Victoria’s Nepalese community is experiencing unprecedented growth, now recognised as the state’s fastest-growing migrant population.

According to government data, the number of Nepal-born residents has surged more than fourfold since 2011, with over 20,000 now calling Victoria home, and nearly half of these arriving between 2016 and 2021. 

The broader Nepalese community, including Australian-born children and those of Nepalese descent, exceeds 23,000 people. This rapid expansion mirrors a national trend, with Australia’s Nepal-born population now numbering over 179,000, making it the country’s ninth-largest migrant group.

Settling in Melbourne: A Home Away From Home

Around 15% of Australia's Nepalese migrants choose Melbourne. Melbourne’s reputation as a welcoming, multicultural city is a major drawcard for Nepalese migrants. 

The city’s strong education system, reliable public transport, and abundance of South Asian grocery stores and restaurants help newcomers maintain their cultural traditions while settling into Australian life.

Popular suburbs for Nepalese families include Banyule, Bayside, Brimbank, Casey, and Greater Dandenong — all offering vibrant community networks and accessible amenities.

With the next national census due in 2026, experts anticipate continued growth in Victoria’s Nepalese community

Here’s a look at some of the figures: 

• 11,123 Nepalese have migrated to Victoria in 2016-2021 (approx)

• 18,510 people born overseas live in Victoria 

• 57% of Nepalese migrants are families with children 

• 37% are families with no children (approx) 

• 25% have Australian citizenship

Top Occupations For Melbourne's Nepalese community

The top occupations for Melbourne’s Nepalese community are community and personal service workers, with around 25.6 % being employed in this sector. This is followed by labourers (22.4 %), technicians and trades workers (15.2 %), professionals (15.2 %) and clerical and administrative workers (3.7 %).