4 kms S-E of CBD
Split Between Cities Of Melbourne and Stonnington
Originally settled by Europeans in 1830’s around time of establishment of Melbourne. With Toorak in 1840’s became a popular suburban retreat from town for wealthy citizens. Several large houses were built and the area maintained its upper class reputation until end of the second world war.
During 1920’s and 30’s many gardens of the large homes were subdivided and blocks of flats became a feature of the area.
South Yarra has many grand and historic homes and is home to some of Melbourne’s most prestigious residential addresses. Residential land price records per square metre being set in some streets.
Population over 25,000 in 2016; one of the most densely populated suburbs of Melbourne.
Main Shopping runs along Toorak Road and Chapel Street focusing on trendy up-market shops and restaurants, night clubs, café culture.
Two railway stations: South Yarra and Hawksburn en route multiple lines with several tram routes traversing the suburb.

5 kms S-E of CBD
City Of Stonnington
In 1837 named Pur-ra-ran, Aboriginal words, meaning “land partially surrounded by water”… proximity to Yarra River and Albert Park Lake.  “Prahran” Post Office opened in 1853.
1890’s to 1930’s Chapel Street built up huge shopping precinct rivalling the Melbourne Central Business District. Many grand architecturally significant commercial buildings appeared as large emporiums opened up. Also became a major entertainment area.
First Prahran Market was opened in 1867 near corner of Greville and Grattan Streets, later moved to present site in Commercial Road in 1891 due to over-crowing of original site. Grand Anglo-Dutch influenced façade was opened the same year and remains today as it was.
Housing Commission Estate built in 1960’s to boost slow growing population. Medium density housing boom has continued since 1990’s with area gentrifying since 1970’s, when Prahran had a large Greek population.
Train station on Sandringham Line with multiple tram routes.

5 kms S-E of CBD
City Of Stonnington
Synonymous with wealth and privilege, suburb long has reputation of Melbourne’s most elite. Second only to Point Piper in Sydney in nation’s highest earning postcode.
Originally named after “Toorak House” built in 1849 by merchant James Jackson. Toorak, Aboriginal word possibly meaning “black crow” or “reedy creek”. Toorak House was original residence to first Governors General until current Government House in King’s Domain built in 1876. Preferred location for many Consulate Offices including Britain, USA, China, Switzerland.
During 1880’s land boom many Italianate Mansions were built and along with East Melbourne, St Kilda and Brighton was a favourite place for the wealthy … Post World War 2 “social climbers” seeking a Toorak postcode caused increased pressure on land prices with many mansions making way for flats and town houses. Only a few of the original 19^th century mansions remain in Toorak, compared to neighbouring Hawthorn, Kew and Armadale due to this price pressure.
Toorak has one train station – Heyington, on the Glen Waverley line, but nearby stations at Armadale and Hakwsburn. Two tram routes traverse Toorak.