Gentrification, immigration and community cohesion in Melbourne's multicultural north

This report analyses processes of social change affecting two multicultural suburbs in Melbourne's north, Coburg and Fawkner, focusing on factors that impact on community cohesion. The Moreland Council (2006, 2011) has identified that national trends of rising housing costs and spikes in unemployment disproportionately affect culturally diverse communities. This report seeks to contribute to an in-depth understanding of these issues, drawing on existing demographic data as well as residents' perceptions. The report is based on ABS data, interviews and focus group discussions with residents and local service providers, and participant observation in the neighbourhoods. It provides a brief social profile of each suburb before presenting the narrative data gleaned through this project.