Footscray is 6 km West of Melbourne’s CBD. The homes are typical of an inner industrial suburb. They are of a cheaper construction, built mainly post World War 2.
The suburb has been popular with migrants since the 1950’s and thus has a cosmopolitan feel about it, with fantastic options for affordable dining.
There is a huge variety of shopping in Footscray, reflecting the diverse background of its residents.
The main shopping precincts are Footscray Plaza, the Footscray markets and the mall, in Nicholson Street. There is a wide selection of schools in the area, from primary to high schools, public and private.
There are two campuses of Victoria University (VU) in Footscray. Footscray Nicholson Campus is the TAFE division of VU, and Footscray Park, which is situated on the banks of the Maribyrnong River overlooking Flemington Racecourse, is the University division.
Footscray is easily accessible from the city by bus, tram or train. There are two train lines that run through Footscray; Sunshine and Williamstown. Regional train lines also pass through, offering access to Geelong and Warrnambool.
The famous Whitten Oval, headquarters of the Western Bulldogs, is at the western end of Footscray.
Why you should buy here
- Close to the city
- Adjacent the more expensive suburb of Seddon, which is well underway with its gentrification.
With two campuses of Victoria University in this suburb, Footscray is very popular with students, especially international students. Students from overseas prefer to live in a cosmopolitan area; Footscray is certainly that.With an abundance of students in this location there are many opportunities. Investors are able to rent out on a per room basis and owner occupiers are able to earn some extra income through home stay programs or renting out a spare room and collecting board. - The suburb of Footscray is a nominated Principal Activity Centre and the Footscray campus of Victoria University has been nominated as a Specialist Activity Centre. These centres are core components of the Melbourne 2030 Strategy.
Areas to focus on
- The northern end of Footscray, between the train station and Ballarat Road is arguably the best spot in the suburb. The streets run east to west, they are wide and have the added bonus of being close to Victoria University and the reserve along the river.
Area to avoid
- The main roads, especially Ballarat Road, Buckley Street and the Princes Highway carry a lot of heavy traffic.
- Stay clear of the industrial sections of Footscray which are mainly to the east of the suburb, between the train line and the river.
Happy House Hunting!
Written by Peter Koulizos, university lecturer, author and buyers advocate.
