Australia 108

Australia 108 Melbourne: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Australia 108 is a defining symbol of Melbourne’s ambition and architectural innovation. As the tallest residential tower in the Southern Hemisphere, rising 319 meters with 100 floors, it transforms the city’s skyline and reflects a blend of luxury living, cultural heritage, and cutting-edge engineering. Situated in the lively Southbank precinct, Australia 108 is not just a feat of architecture but also a marker of Melbourne’s multicultural and Indigenous history (City of Melbourne).

This comprehensive guide explores Australia 108’s historical context, design innovations, construction challenges, visitor information, accessibility, and its place within Melbourne’s urban landscape. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or a traveler seeking the best city views, this guide offers all you need to appreciate Australia 108 and its surrounding attractions (Australia 108 Official).

Indigenous and Early Historical Context
Conception and Planning
Construction and Engineering
Architectural Significance
Urban Impact and Community
Visitor Information: Access and Viewing Tips
Timeline and Milestones
Recognition and Legacy
Accessibility and Sustainability
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Indigenous and Early Historical Context

Australia 108 is built on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation—an area that has been a significant meeting place for thousands of years. The Southbank precinct holds deep spiritual, cultural, and economic importance for the Wurundjeri and neighboring groups such as the Boonwurrung, Taungurong, Dja Dja Wurrung, and Wathaurung (City of Melbourne).

European settlement began in 1835, rapidly transforming Southbank from marshland to a multicultural hub. Today, the area is celebrated for its arts, culture, and as the site of some of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings, setting the stage for the emergence of Australia 108.

Conception and Planning

The concept for Australia 108 emerged in the early 2010s, as Melbourne experienced a boom in high-rise developments and demand for luxury urban living. Designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects—the same firm behind the Eureka Tower—the tower was envisioned as a new icon for the city (Fender Katsalidis).

After a rigorous planning process, approval was granted in 2013, with Planning Minister Matthew Guy calling it “a magnificent addition to Melbourne’s skyline” (Wikipedia). The project was launched in April 2013, with construction commencing in late 2015.

Construction and Engineering

Australia 108’s construction posed significant technical challenges due to its slenderness, limited footprint, and location on compressible Coode Island Silt—common to Southbank. Over 250 deep piles were installed to ensure stability (Multiplex).

The building employs a reinforced concrete core, outrigger systems, and a tuned mass damper to mitigate wind-induced movement. Its curvilinear shape not only enhances aesthetics but also improves wind resistance (Architectureau).

A defining engineering achievement is the cantilevered “Starburst” structure, extending six meters from the tower at levels 70 and 71. High-strength steel trusses and innovative construction techniques were used to create this sky-high feature (ArchDaily).

Architectural Significance

Rising 319 meters, Australia 108 is a landmark of contemporary residential design and the tallest building in Australia by roof height (Wikipedia). The building’s glass-and-gold façade and the golden Starburst are a tribute to the Commonwealth Star on Australia’s flag and symbolize national pride (Parametric Architecture).

The Star Club—housed within the Starburst—offers residents sky gardens, infinity pools, lounges, and exceptional views. With 1,105 apartments, Australia 108 fosters a diverse vertical community, from affordable units to ultra-luxurious penthouses (Fender Katsalidis).

Urban Impact and Community

Australia 108 is more than a residential skyscraper; it’s designed as a community hub. Over 4,000 square meters are dedicated to amenities such as dining rooms, theatres, spas, gyms, and vertical gardens (Multiplex). The aboveground carpark is integrated as a terraced garden, blending practical needs with urban greening (Fender Katsalidis).

Its presence has invigorated the Southbank precinct, complementing neighboring landmarks like Eureka Tower and contributing to Melbourne’s reputation as a global city.

Visitor Information: Access and Viewing Tips

Australia 108 is a private residential building, with no public observation deck or general tours. However, its exterior can be admired from several vantage points:

Southbank Promenade (along the Yarra River): Offers panoramic city and tower views.
Boyd Park and the Arts Centre Melbourne precinct: Nearby spaces ideal for photos.
Birrarung Marr park: Provides a broad perspective of the skyline.

Some serviced apartments within Australia 108 are available for short-term rental via platforms like Booking.com, offering rare access to amenities and views. Architectural walking tours may also include the building as an external highlight.

Timeline and Milestones

2013: Planning approval and market launch (Wikipedia)
2015: Construction begins (Multiplex)
2020: Tower topped out and construction completed
2021: Official opening to residents (Fender Katsalidis)

Recognition and Legacy

Australia 108 has received international acclaim for its architectural and engineering achievements, setting new benchmarks for residential high-rise design (Parametric Architecture). The Starburst is a unique engineering feat, and the building’s presence has helped redefine Melbourne’s skyline (Architectureau).

Accessibility and Sustainability

Australia 108 and Southbank precinct are fully accessible, featuring step-free entrances, lifts, wide corridors, and public transport access (Melbourne Visitor Information). Sustainability features include energy-efficient systems, water-saving fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and use of sustainable materials.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Key Attractions:

National Gallery of Victoria
Arts Centre Melbourne
Crown Casino Complex
Eureka Tower (with public observation deck)
Federation Square
Royal Botanic Gardens

Travel Tips:

Use Melbourne’s free tram zone for easy access to Southbank.
Best views are during daylight and at sunset.
Comfortable walking shoes recommended for exploring the area.
For accessibility, check Public Transport Victoria.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can the public visit Australia 108’s Starburst or observation decks?
No, these areas are reserved for residents and guests. The building does not have a public observation deck.

Are there guided tours of Australia 108?
No regular public tours. Some external architectural walking tours may include Australia 108 as a highlight.

How can I experience Australia 108 as a visitor?
Booking a serviced apartment stay is the only way to access interior amenities.

Is the building accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, both the building and precinct are designed for accessibility.

Where are the best spots to view Australia 108?
Southbank Promenade, Boyd Park, and Birrarung Marr park offer excellent views.

Conclusion

Australia 108 is a testament to Melbourne’s architectural evolution, fusing luxury, sustainability, and community within a skyline-defining tower. While public access is limited, the building’s striking form and the vibrant Southbank precinct make it a must-see for visitors interested in architecture and city life. For those wishing to experience its amenities, short-term rental options are available, and architectural tours often highlight its design and engineering innovations.

To enrich your visit, explore nearby cultural and historical attractions, leverage Melbourne’s public transport network, and consider downloading the Audiala app for the latest travel updates and guides. Australia 108 remains a key reference point in understanding Melbourne’s dynamic urban landscape and its ongoing journey as a globally recognized city (Parametric Architecture).

References and Further Reading

Image Suggestion: Include a high-quality image of Australia 108’s façade at sunset with alt text: “Australia 108 skyscraper in Melbourne’s Southbank with golden crown illuminated at sunset.”