An overview of Hobsons Bay
Hobsons Bay is a coastal municipality located in Melbourne’s south-western suburbs. It encompasses the suburbs of Altona, Altona Meadows, Altona North, parts of Brooklyn and Laverton, along with Newport, Seabrook, Seaholme, Spotswood, South Kingsville, Williamstown and Williamstown North.
Hobsons Bay is a diverse and evolving community of nearly 94,000 people (estimated resident population 93,738 in 2023), shaped by a broad mix of cultural backgrounds, household types and life stages. The municipality includes long-established neighbourhoods as well as newer areas experiencing population change and areas that have been rezoned from industrial and are being redeveloped as residential areas.
A third of residents were born overseas, and many speak a language other than English at home. Across the municipality, social and economic conditions vary, with some households experiencing financial stress, insecure employment or rising cost-of-living pressures. Areas such as Laverton, Altona North, and Brooklyn exhibit higher levels of socioeconomic disadvantage than the municipal average, underscoring the importance of local support services and community programs. Housing affordability and rental stress also affect many households, particularly younger families, single-parent households and people on low incomes.
The community has an aging population alongside younger families, creating diverse needs in areas such as aged care, social connection, youth services, and mental health supports. Social isolation, disability support and access to safe community spaces continue to be priorities raised by local groups and service providers.
Despite these challenges, Hobsons Bay is known for strong local networks, active volunteerism and a culture of community participation. Local organisations, neighbourhood houses, cultural groups and volunteers play a critical role in strengthening wellbeing, connection and inclusion.
This blend of diversity, resilience and varied social need underscores the importance of community grants that help local groups address gaps, support vulnerable residents and build a thriving, connected Hobsons Bay.
