Heidelberg West, VIC 3081

3.5(44 reviews)

Ranked 345th best suburb by locals in Melbourne (Greater) Region, VIC

Great for

  • Parks and recreation
  • Internet access
  • Neighbourly spirit
  • Public transport
  • Peace and quiet

Not great for

  • Nightlife

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families With Kids
  • Students
  • Retirees

Reviews of Heidelberg West, VIC

1st December 2022

"Heidelberg West - a play to invest / buy?!"

Hi all, I'm new to the property investment game. I have friends who have bought and live in Heidelberg West. They say despite its old dodgy reputation, its changing fast and is a great place to live. Amazing bus transport routes that take you to the city in 35min; lots of trees, peaceful and quiet, close to major shops, etc, etc. Anyway, I'm looking to buy an investment property soon. There's a few places on the market, but I'm particularly interested in 8 Tobruk Ave Heidelberg West (3 bed

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
1
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Looking for a home in Heidelberg West?

"Change is in the air."

I've lived in Heidelberg West on/off for 31 years and currently live in the Olympic Village side of Southern Road.
A lot has changed over the years, particularly in recent years with the development of larger properties bringing in younger couples and families.
There is a real sense of community around, especially for those with a green thumb. The online rough trade fb groups bustling with freebies and things to trade, not sure fresh produce. The locals are very welcoming in our neighborhood, especially on Pacific Drive. The local shops are convenient, Northland is meters from home, and plenty of trails to walk the dog. West is fast becoming Heights, but with fewer large blocks of land so if the opportunity comes about you best be quick!

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
2
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"More than meets the eye"

My wife and I (30yo professionals) moved in here 9 months ago and I was a little apprehensive at first as I had hard about the commission housing and had seen the odd junkie about. To be honest we cannot have fallen in love with this place quicker though. A lot of development Happening and young couples moving into the area. So close to the fwy and city. HEAPS of beautiful walks and tracks that extend all the way to the city through leafy Ivanhoe and even as far as Oakleigh and Glen Waverley! So convenient and close to everything and to be honest, the only play you bump into “not so warm” people is at the local ALDI but they tend to do their own thing. Never a problem and or drama here. Strongly advise anyone to come move into the area...house prices are going up exponentially also! It’s a true win win suburb.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
1
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"Lived here 18 months since Nov 2018"

Rough but look after their own (and i felt included in that) was my first impression until I was recently assault at the mall by someone clearly psychotic who thought I was someone they knew. On a fine Saturday morning.... My 11yo son saw it all and it was a horrible experience with police etc. Lots of the rough locals came to help us and got rid of the offending woman. All agreed that this was an outlier experience and she wasn't local... but that day walking home I saw 2 other people just raving at the sky on the street. So while the response to this was great and it's probably a rare thing, you only need this to happen to you once to completely feel alienated and unsafe. Maybe this will feel better for me in time but right now I just want to get out of here.

1
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"It is the best (value-wise)"

With all sorts of issue, Heidelberg West could be one of the best suburbs you could find with a budget around 700k. Close to everything.Lots of development that might revamp the entire suburb. There are more people walking their dogs on the street. Certainly, the demographics is changing. Easily one of the suburbs with top potential.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
1
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Rentals in Heidelberg West

"A small suburb on the rise"

Living there for last 6 months. So far so good. Heidelberg West is changing . You can find more information on the council website ( https://shaping.banyule.vic.gov.au) . Yeah, with the money we paid , that I think it is really good ( unless you have big budget so you have more choice) with location , size land , and Olympic Park Master Plan, School rebuilt, housing are replacing by private own and The Bell Street Mall Cultural are on the way , it is really make the area changing quickly. I meet up with community once every month on Saturday in front of library , it is great and friendly place to be. I thinks the past is the past . Heidelberg West now is not what it was on 60"s .

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
1
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"Great investment"

living there for about 4 years and turn it into an investment property. There was no issue living there. Newspaper is always biased towards reporting terrible and unfortunate events. They never report majority of people in Heidelberg West are friendly, as it's not newsworthy. In terms of investment return, the rent is definitely increasing. House price is keeping pace with the general property market. Plus, there is huge bluesky opportunity if the gentrification accelerates.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
1
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"Convenient and quiet"

No issues in the 1 & 1/2 years I have lived here so far. So much change happening with lots of old houses being redeveloped, including public housing. Very convenient for shopping and restaurant access and we love how leafy and green the suburb is. Great value with million-dollar suburbs neighbouring.

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"The worst area I ever lived"

Bought a property here early 2011. Lived here since then. Sold it eventually and moved. Terrible area, a lot of disrespectful people, worst drivers and worst teens I've ever seen. A rough suburb in general! Just do NOT risk it especially when you have kids or planning to have kids.

Who lives here?

  • Singles
2
Julian Wong
Julian Wong

Hey can i know when was this posted? im looking considering this area but the reviews are very mixed. Was wondering if the bad reviews are old or recent. Thanks in advance

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"Friendly neighbourhood, beautiful parks"

Recently bought a house in Heidelberg West backing onto the Darebin creek; would have to be one of the most beautiful parklands in inner Melbourne-even occasionally see kangaroos in the early morning! Also know the names of most of the people on the street, many of whom went out of their way to welcome me to the neighbourhood, invite me round for coffee, BBQs etc. There are some rough types around but they seem pretty harmless, also not much in the way of nightlife but the trade off for affordability is worth it, especially as it is only a five minute drive from Preston that has heaps if nightlife i can go to. I can see already a lot of building and new people moving to the area and lots of potential for it getting better and better, would definitely recommend.

Who lives here?

  • Families with kids
0
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"Def no complaints"

I’ve lived here since 2012, walked my dogs through the streets, day, night, never a problem. I actually see women walk at night with their dog. Truth is I wouldn’t let my daughter do that in any suburb. There has been bad reports over the years, however like Preston and other bad areas, the poo can’t afford to live here anymore and with all the new houses going up, the ugly concrete houses are disappearing. The bad rep around Malahang park isn’t nearly the same as it used to be. You take your dog anytime between 3.30 and 8pm on any night and it’s like a club. Funny thing is people know the names of the dogs better than they know yours. The play ground is always full of families having bbqs every weekend and to tie that in with the occasional festival that happens there. The area is vibrant. I will say though that there is 2 sides of Heidelberg West. That’s south of southern road being the ‘cleaner side’ and the north side that can be questionable. The south side is probably 2 years behind bellfield for family oriented feel as the north side is probably still 7 to 10years behind. However as the commission housing fading and house prices continue to rise, this side is catching fast. The south side is an easy purchase as being so close to Ivanhoe, Heidelberg, and the restraunts these have, which to my opinion is as good as any around the cbd, and the fact I’m 5 mins away from anything you can think of, it’s hard to fault once you actually live here 12 months and see what it actually is. I’ve just started a family, my outlook on life has changed dramatically, the things that seemed fine before I only see as potential dangers for my young one and I’m saying that about everything, but I’m not worried to bring my kids up here. Sure this is where I can afford to buy and it I can live in Ivanhoe or alphington, I would. As it’s only closer to the cbd and the restraunts I love. Besides that, for living conditions, I’m not leaving!

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
1
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"A suburb on the rise!"

We bought property here as it was the cheapest suburb in the North East, within 12km from the CBD. The surburb is definitely improving with the number of developments and young people moving in to the area. Sure, there are shady people around but everyone seems to keep to them self. Great value and surrounded by million dollar suburbs, close to shopping centres, bus and train - a great place for first home buyers.

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"SOOOOO MUCH BETTER THAN I EXPECTED!!!"

Even though I was a bit worried because of all the negative reviews online, I still bought my first house here in Heidelberg West, mainly because of its good price. I didn't really feel much excited before I moved in.

However, things are soooooo much better than I expected! These are the facts make me happy:

- Very convinient public transport. bus stop is only 3 mins walk from my house, 40 mins to CBD by bus.
- Good location. 5 mins drive to Swimming Centrer 10 mins drive to Northland Shopping Centre, 10 mins drive to Preston Market, etc. Basically everything I need for daily life is less than 10 mins drive from my home.
- Super friendly neighbors.my neighbours are majorly young professors or couples, I'v become friends with quite a few of them. It's always nice and quite here, making me feel very safe.
- Developing fast. I can see a lot of new townhouses under construction near where I live. Most of buyers are young people just like me. I firmly believe that this area is improving fastly!
- The price is amazing. No need to explain.

Again, don't be scared by those bad reviews. Once you try it, you will like this area just like I do!

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Families with kids
0
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"Love it !"

This has turned into a very friendly suburb with a rapidly changing demographic. There are many young families moving in and enjoying the calm of extensive bush land and facilities. The issues that have "branded" this suburb as particularly unsafe are no longer relevant as being the norm. All suburbs have issues and history and Heidelberg West is definitely one of them. Those who have grown up here have lived through the worst but unless you still live in the 80's this is now a great place to live with massive potential.

Who lives here?

  • Families with kids
0
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"great investment"

All the stabbing, drug problem, government house are all problem in the past. Heidelberg West is a good bet that things will get improved. Great investment potential. Historical price performance could prove that. Where else to find stable double-digit growth under a price tag of 800k?

Who lives here?

  • Singles
0
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"Someone just got stabbed to death"

Young men on ice walking the streets and people getting stabbed, people like this suburb because of investment upside but the people here are pretty bad especially around ramu parade, Perth st and southern rd near malahang park trust me don't live here with kids! Unless you enjoy getting stabbed by the big Lugosi and Micky P

Who lives here?

  • Singles
1
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"Don't believe all you read and hear about the west!"

Four years ago, I moved to Heidelberg West for an easier commute to my uni and because of my tight budget. As soon as many of my friends and family found out, they warned me that it was a terrible place and to be very careful. I was so paranoid for my first six months, but being here 4 years later facing another move (for work purposes) I don't want to leave. The area is great, And it's close to northland, malahang and the darebin creek trail. You will have to catch a bus or drive to the closest train station but that's never been an issue for me. It's so close to the city, the Austin hospital and Macleod, Rosanna and Heidelberg train stations. I'll admit there are some rough looking streets, and you'll often see some less than sober-type people around but many are harmless and mind their own business, plus a lot of them don't seem to "shit in their own backyard" so to speak. Police usually patrol the rougher areas (I've noticed from going on walks) and it's generally very safe. Every suburb has their rough patches. I never would have expected to enjoy living here after the terrible things I read online and heard from friends. But it's really not that bad, and most neighbours seem to look out for one another.

Who lives here?

  • Singles
  • Families with kids
1
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"Great place to invest"

Better than what we expected. Upcoming inner city suburb with lot of portential with govt housing dissapearing and getting sold to private developers.

Who lives here?

  • Families with kids
0
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"Changing Suburb. Future Fitzroy. Perfect suburb for first home buyers."

Great place to live. Buy now and reap the benefits in future.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city
  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet
  • So close to city

Not great for

  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Old buildings

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
0
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"Rough suburb"

Grew up in this suburb and never felt safe walking the streets alone. It is the worst suburb I've lived in.

Stay away from Ramu Pde as it is one of the worst street to live. It is a very rough street with hard rubbish and litter dumped on the side street by mostly the tenants who live in public housing.

I have experienced abuse, racism, theft, vandalism to my home, hard rubbish and litter litterally dumped on my driveway and front lawn strip, exposed needles /condoms put in my letterbox and property. The list goes on.


Sure Heidelberg West is close to hospitals, shops and city but the only transport available within walking distance is the bus. You will generally need a car to get anywhere.


After so many years of living in this depressing suburb I am so glad I got out of there.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city
  • So close to city

Not great for

  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Old buildings
  • Education and living standards
  • Poverty

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Retirees
  • LGBT+
  • Students
1
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"Do Your Own Research"

Yes. This is some part of Heidelberg West is rundown. Yes. You will come across unpleasant people on the street. Yes. It is not ideal for owner occupier to purchase the first home. And Yes, a lot of home owner and agents are all saying Heidelberg West is improving and you need to be aware of what they say. But does that mean, it is still a suburb you need to stay away from? Definitely no. Just take a brief look at census data, public renting number dropped from 1100 in 1991 to 800 in 2011. The selling momentum slowed during 2006 - 2011, I suppose that was mainly due to the financial crisis and government does not wish to dump their stock at bottom level price. Currently I feel government accelerated sales process a little bit. 2016 census will be very important to see what government had done in the past five years. And government will use the proceeds to rebuilt some of the dilapidated properties anyway. Considering increasing private developers' interest in this area. Just imaging ten years from now, what heidelberg west will look like and how its median price will be compared to median house price of Melbourne. ( Currently still has a 10- 15% discount, but in a long run, I think it will have 10-20% premium over Melbourne median price.)

0
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"Good bits, medium bits and terrible bits"

We bought in Bellfield in 2009 (first suburb south of Hberg west over Bell street). Bellfield has improved a lot, but Hberg west is still patchy. I walk through it on the way to work at latrobe uni and see bad sh*t every week, eg cops raiding houses, burnt out cars, roaming scumbags etc. Having said that, I have seen certain pockets really improve in the last 7 years. Best bits are between Altona street and southern road (east of oriel road), and between liberty parade and oriel road, south of southern road. Redwood street and Mulberry street have some really beautiful street trees. Many houses around there have been bought by people who obviously care and they have been renovated .

Don't go anywhere near the area north of southern road, west of Oriel road (near olympic village shopping center). I have been acosted by people while walking through here a few times and seen some shocking domestics. Its a really ugly pocket and imho will take many years to come good. Its barely changed in the last 7 years. A big problem is that developers after a quick buck are building very ugly new dwellings in this area which look nasty and cheap. Basically, West HBerg is a crap shoot.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city

Not great for

  • Proliferation of ugly new developments
  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Poverty

Who lives here?

  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Hipsters
1
daniellep13

Hi Marcuss,
Thanks for the info! Im looking at a property in the shops on McEwan rd near Collins st and would be really grateful for your feedback. Id be running art classes for kids and adults. Do you think its a suitable area?
Much appreciated
Dani

marcuss3

That's Heidelberg Heights (a subtle yet important distinction cf hberg west). That area of "the heights" is v nice! I would grab that shop - Heidelberg Heights has bits which are pushing (or even over) $1m and abutts Ivanhoe. There are quite a few family oriented businesses in the heidelberg west factory area which seem to be thriving, so I reckon you wont have any trouble attracting customers. Good luck!

vic_value_finder

Hi Marcus, thanks for some very insightful information. I am looking at property in the NE corner of Bellfield (near to the Repatriation Hospital) on the border of Heidelberg West. Id welcome your thoughts on that area? And the SE corner of Heidelberg West (south of Altona East of Oriel Rd? Thank you in advance

marcuss
marcuss

Hi Nick, The Repat side of Bellfield is pretty good, houses there are being turned over at a high rate, and its closer to Ivanhoe than Olympic village. Just don't buy something on Bell St! The SE corner of H'berg west seems to be changing quite rapidly. The housing commission are currently demolishing the old walk up flats all along bell street, and that area is closer to heidelberg station (20min walk). Having said that, read the previous comment :( Something to consider also is that Banyule recently (2019) approved re-zoning for big chunks of Bellfield to allow 5 and 6 story developments along Oriel road and some smaller street, and Liberty parade. This will in time turn this area into high density (as opposed to medium). They are also on the verge of approving development of the old school site on Banksia Street, which will be high density as well. I think those who own land will benefit greatly from this value wise, so get in now if you can I would suggest.

Yasir Salem
Yasir Salem

Hi Marcus, looking to buy a property in the area north of Southern Road, East of Oriel Road and West of Waterdale road. Would be great if I get your thought about this?
Thanks

Marcus Scholz
Marcus Scholz

That's a nice pocket, lots of big trees. Ge in quick I reckon, houses in west heidelberg are starting to sell for over $1m

Tony Young
Tony Young

Hi Marcuss, what's your opinion of Tarakan street just around from Altona street?

Solo Bakayoko
Solo Bakayoko

Hi Marcus looking to get a property on Coomalie cnr any tips?

marcuss
marcuss

Coomalie Crescent is pretty nice, big trees and close to shops.

Julian Wong
Julian Wong

hi guys, can i know when was this posted? im looking considering this area but the reviews are very mixed. Was wondering if the bad reviews are old or recent. Thanks in advance

marcuss
marcuss

Original post about 10 years old. The area has gentrified a bit since then, two huge housing commission estates were demolished about 5 years ago which changed the area considerably.

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"Way better than I originally thought"

Before I moved into Heidelberg West, I was a bit scared by the review on the internet. But my limited budget left me with no other choice. After living there for a while, I find the neighborhood is way better than I originally imagine. Really recommend for people who with a tight budget.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city
  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet
  • So close to city

Not great for

  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Old buildings
  • Education and living standards
  • Poverty

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Retirees
  • LGBT+
  • Students
  • Trendy & Stylish
0
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"Huge investment potential"

Government continue to sell public houses in this area. Most of the tenants living in public houses are quiet, friendly senior people. I have not come across any trouble in the past two years. When you see the number of development sites in this Heidelberg West, it is not hard to image the suburb will be entirely different in 5 -10 years. In my opinion, it is one of the best suburbs from an investment perspective.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city
  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet
  • So close to city

Not great for

  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Old buildings

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Students
  • Country Lovers
2
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"Better than we expected"

We moved out her as we wanted our own little house with a backyard. Bought a little 2 bed that had been renovated on 600m2 and have really easy mortgage payments even though we didn't have the 20% deposit.
It's true that the neighborhood is patchy, eg some pockets that are grubby and seem like there is bad folks there. However when we moved in all the local neighbors came over and introduced themselves, they even threw a BBQ so we could meet everyone!
Our mini neighborhood is wonderfully quiet with trees and birds.
It seems that the commission housing is being sold off by the council? It may all have been sold by now though I could be wrong about this?
I was worried about crime and parking my car outside and all that but after nearly a year we haven't had any problems.
Mahalang reserve is a big nearby park with nice facilities but yeah some of the kids up there are pretty badly behaved and sweary, I would definately supervise kids up there
Overall though it's a much better lifestyle than we had in a swanky Richmond appartment and we will stay here for the foreseeable future

Great for

  • Nice wildlife and trees
  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city
  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet

Not great for

  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Old buildings

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Retirees
  • Students
0
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"Just moved in and pleasantly surprised!!"

Like most people we thought of the suburb as "Dodgy" but it was the only place left (northern suburbs) that is affordable and has great investment opportunity. We used to live on Liberty Parade in Ivanhoe, literally across bell street. That pocket is safe as anything but townhouses are selling for mid to high 800K. Jump across bell street to Ebony Parade and we get a big block 600+ M2 for 450k. So far so good. Of course there is a mix of young professionals and riff raff but it will certainly change with the blocks being subdivided for new units and homes being renovated. Not to mention council is selling off commission flats. Only time will tell.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city
  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet

Not great for

  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Education and living standards

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Students
  • Trendy & Stylish
1
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"Close to everything we need/want"

Affordable, quiet, always improving. Good parts and 'bad' parts (just like every other suburb). Great annual festival in the local park. Close to everything (2 minute trip to shopping in Ivanhoe, Heidelberg or Northland in Preston). Great access to ring road and Bell St (both handy for getting to the airport), close to La Trobe Uni (lots of students live in the area), well serviced by buses to city or 5 minute trip to train (Heidelberg or Ivanhoe) or tram (Preston). Glad we are not spending every cent servicing the mortgage - we have a great lifestyle here, as do several of our artist friends and our house has almost doubled in value. No regrets on leaving noisy, drunken, grotty Brunswick or dull Northcote (with its noise-complaining, middle age parents of primary school age children) all those years ago. Not to mention, the luxury of having off-street parking!!

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city
  • Quiet

Not great for

  • Some areas look in need of an update

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Hipsters
  • Students
0
lauren120

Could you please elaborate more on the bad parts - like perhaps give me specific street names and pockets? It would be much appreciated :)

CK

I totally agree with TaneC. I have lived in Heidelberg West for over a year now and really like it. There are a few dodgy streets, but the rest are fine. If your coming from Thornbury or Northcote, this suburb will look a little shabby in comparison. But, that is only on the surface. Heidelberg West is changing dramatically for the better. Nearly every street has some sort of private housing development (e.g. sub-divisions or small units), which is great. I've never encountered any problems with any people living here. On the contrary, I've discovered an amazing community of people. Even within the same street there are some good and not so good parts. For example, Ramu Parade west of Oriel Rd is not the nicest, but I'd happily live in Ramu Pde between Oriel Rd and Waterdale Rd , that section is really good. I find Heidelberg West quiet & full of trees. It is only a few minutes drive to Rosanna Station and has amazing public transport bus system. I've lived all over Melbourne (including Northcote, Thornbury & Preston) and I'm really happy with Heidelberg West. I'm hoping to buy a house here very soon whilst the property prices are still low in comparison with neighbouring Ivanhoe, Preston and Rosanna.

lucy-walshl

what about Morotai parade area

gavin71
gavin71

My son rented on wewak parade (around the corner), was a lovely home and at a good price, however had a number of occasions where cars that werent parked in the garage were broken into. He is now in Heidleberg only 1km away and hasnt reported any issues, luckily able to find a similar property for comparable price

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"Skip this place, come back in a decade."

In a word, horrid.

In general the suburb is quite run down, there are a lot of commission places with less than ideal tenants.

If you are familiar with the processes that have to be followed to have someone evicted you would know that it is near impossible now. The tenant has to be taken to court in most instances and face their accusers. The worst tenants of the area are extremely violent, abusive and downright psychotic. Some of them are a problem every single day and know they will not be evicted. Smashed windows, vandalism, abuse, violence, drugs.. it never ends.

The kids in the area are among the worst I have ever seen and the police are useless. It took the cops nearly a YEAR to confiscate the cheap chinese motorbikes the local kids were using, turning the local area, including the mall, into their own personal motorcross track. The kids break shop windows.. everyone just knows nothing will be done. Wait till the kids get older, it'll get worse.

Don't risk it. This suburb isn't worth your life. You will get robbed. You will be subject to vicious abuse and insults for merely walking the street.
The council are as pathetic as the police, they have consistent reports about particular people with evidence.. but they do nothing. You'll need to be close to the hospital for when one of those drugged kids puts a knife in you.

Heidelberg west is the worst place I have ever lived in.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres

Not great for

  • Severe antisocial behaviours
  • Vandalism
  • Racism
  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Old buildings
  • Education and living standards
  • Poverty
0
lauren120

Could you please elaborate more on the bad parts - like perhaps give me specific street names and pockets? It would be much appreciated :)

TaneC

We are a small ( working) family who live in Heidelberg West and yes it can be rough at times and I do miss Fitzroy but I our little house was affordabele and in a nice quiet part of the suburb. We live close enough to the places we work to either ride a bike or walk, what a luxury! Our children are highly intelligent and well behaved as are a number of other children in the area. I would say the main area to avoid is Ramu parade there are a lot of housing comision houses and this long street is always littered with house hold rubbish, things like old furniture and clothes. Perth street seems a little dodgy too. A suburb is only what you make of it, if you get involved and get to know like minded people in the area you will come to like Heidelberg west. I would saying buying in Heidelberg west is a worthy investment.

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"Affordable and Convenient"

Heidelberg West has a rich history which includes the 1956 Olympic Games Village for athletes.The area is close to Northland Shopping Center and Latrobe University.Many residents have lived there for years and enjoy the convenience of local transport and shops and also its close proximity to the CBD.
Homes in the area offer good value and an opportunity to renovate or re develop which has been quite popular in recent years and continues to update the area.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Proximity to city
  • Council dedication to improve area

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • LGBT+
  • Students
0
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"Be wary of people using the same old line of its on the up- do your research"

Although the rent/property prices here are cheaper than in nearby suburbs, trust me, they aren't cheap enough, especially if you have kids. Go to Reservoir, go to Glenroy, go to Altona- none of these are great but I've lived in them all and they are infinitely more preferable. Heck even country towns are preferable if you're that worried about saving money on rent. As many posters here have already mentioned, the area looks rough, sounds rough and is rough. Way more yelling, drug dealing, sirens etc. here per capita than is normal. I have to admit I was never the victim of crime myself in Heidelberg West, but I know the statistics, and my old housemates car has since been broken into and her backyard entered, a few clothing items stolen from the line and her pet rabbit let loose/stolen (wtf, right!?). It's more of a 'filler' suburb, between the major suburbs with actual services and transport. Lots of drab buildings and houses, no nice period (ie. pre WW2) buildings and few modern ones- area mostly developed in the 50s and 60s with automobile dominance in mind, meaning there is no real centre, and therefore few shops within West Heidelberg, and restaurants, bars, cafes? At least a decent pub? Forget about it. Some posters here have mentioned proximity to the city/public transport as pro's- but even this is not really true. I'd consider somewhere like Ascot Vale or Northcote to be pretty much the outer limit of 'so close to the city'- West Heidelberg is at least 12 km away. Crap freeway access. Additionally, within the suburb itself there is no train station, no tram line, no direct link to the city at all, meaning you must either own a car, or be wiling to catch a bus (bus passengers in West Heidelberg? eugh) fifteen or twenty minutes to the nearest station, then wait to catch the next train, just to get to the city- just commuting via train alone can be bad enough. Also, if you're not used to living in crappy areas, it can be kind of embarrassing to invite friends and family over to visit when you know they will be seeing/hearing what you force yourself to ignore.
If you're seriously thinking about moving here, if you rent make sure you have a car and a high tolerance for putting up with the ugliness and crime and feral people for the lower rent. The only redeeming feature is it is quite close to really nice suburbs like Heidelberg (3084) and Ivanhoe, as well as Latrobe Uni. And if you're thinking of actually buying here- for gods sake do your research and find out what its actually likely to return, and don't believe the same old line used for all crappy areas of 'its on the up!'- the area would need to get rid of its housing commission houses and get a train station/rail line for it to really be on the up, and they're never going to happen.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres

Not great for

  • Rough people on the streets
  • No public transport to the city
  • Few local shops & services, no nightlife & places to eat/drink...
  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Education and living standards
  • Poverty

Who lives here?

  • Students
0
Tony Young
Tony Young

Anyone know how long ago this review was written?

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"A suburb built for desperate hosing choices"

OH MY GOODNESS,This is the worst place i lived at, apart from my individual,unit i am surrounded by a lot of trouble and very disrespectful people. It is a low social economical background with a tone of public housing who most of the residents do not have any pride in where they live at all. ( i myself have government housing but am very house proud) I have been here 2 1/2 years and am already dying to get out of here. The area has only gotten worse even in the short amount of time i've been here.There are drug deals to witness regularly and i see at least one cop car or ambulance every few days. A lot of vacant housing becoming available and just left empty so people tend to set them on fire or shoot up in them and squat. Living on a very busy main street, i witness insane drivers daily whom seem to go at a ridiculous speed.They don't wear helmets on bike or motor cycles here and living in an area where there are heaps of large families i find it quiet dangerous.The only reason i stay is that the location is great. its close to shops and easy access to public transport and i have fantastic neighbours in my block of units. Seeing too many dramas, i now think its time to move on!!!!!!!

Great for

  • Transport
  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres

Not great for

  • High crime area and drug related incidents
  • Old commission places
  • Old buildings
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Education and living standards
  • Poverty

Who lives here?

  • Singles
  • Students
0
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"Worst one year experience!"

What I learned from living in Heidelberg West is we have to really review the place around before living in any house. Lot of noise and fights at night from government houses around. Some street drivers at night very noisy. Not very friendly people but some good parks and shopping experience around.

Great for

  • Proximity to city
  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres

Not great for

  • Old commission places
  • Old buildings
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Education and living standards
  • Poverty

Who lives here?

  • Singles
0
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"So very glad we got out."

There are a lot of great people in this place and a lot of deeply entrenched problems. I lived there with my young family for a number of years and never felt safe.
There are people who want change.
There are young families.
The parks are fantastic.
But there is a lot of screaming in the streets, burglaries, stolen vehicles, things set on fire, children roaming unsupervised, and alcohol and substance abuse. I could never, in good conscience, advise anyone with a family to buy into the area.

Great for

  • Proximity to city
  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres

Not great for

  • Alcohol and substance abuse
  • Burglaries
  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Education and living standards
  • Poverty
0
Exar
Exar

Hey Brad, we 100% agree with you. We were keen to get on the property ladder in a modern standalone house within close distance of the CBD where my wife and I both work. The plan was to give it five years, which we did, before upgrading to wonderful, peaceful Macleod. It served it's purpose.

Nattyyt

I think I prefer Heidelberg west

TylerSanderson
TylerSanderson

i believe it's a fine neighbourhood to live in, if you have a problem with the dodgy looking people around there, just keep to yourself, they only start a fight with the people who confront them or piss them off. stay away from the troubled areas and you will be great

Marcus Scholz
Marcus Scholz

End of 2020 they demolished all the commission flats on Bell Street. I predict an upswing, at least for that end of HBerg west.

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"Best in the west"

Heidelberg West has been good to our family and selling our house will be our biggest regret, in 5 years the average Joe will no be able to buy here. Lots of things going for the suburb but location is king!!!

Great for

  • Proximity to city
  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet
  • So close to city

Not great for

  • Old commission places

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Students
0
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"Pretty Good Actually"

This suburb gets a bad rap, but as an owner/occupier, I can say that it is definitely on the improve. SO close to the city! Public transport is a breeze, and a focus on the parks in the area for the kids. Weekends are pretty quiet in the area too. If you work night shift and need to sleep during daylight hours, then this area is definitely the place for you! Banyule are working hard to clean the area up, and rates are really low. We have enjoyed a very comfortable life here for more than 5 years, a great way to get us on the property ladder! Totally agree that this suburb will one day be a big name!

Great for

  • Proximity to city
  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet
  • So close to city

Not great for

  • Old buildings
  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • LGBT+
  • Students
0
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"In the Ghetto"

According to the current Banyule Council web site’s statistics (http://profile.id.com.au/templates/profile/Clients/132Bany/PDF/160.pdf), on page 5 Heidelberg West has 6786 residents, and on page 6 there are 2946 private dwellings. This differs to the latest Australia Bureau of Statistics, which put the number of people as 12923, and 5619 private dwellings (go to the ABS web site http://www.abs.gov.au/websitedbs/d3310114.nsf/home/census, then on the right hand side under the small QuickStats Quick Search, you enter the Heidelberg West post code of 3081).

A key figure not mentioned in Banyule Council’s web site is that in Heidelberg West there of the total of 2133 private dwellings that are rented, and of these those that are owned and run by a State or Territory housing authority, that is public housing, is the number of 1133. So that is 2133 out of 5619 private dwellings are rental, or 37.96%, and of these rental properties, 1133 are housing commission, or 53.1%.

In a 2001 report tabled to the Parliament of Australia on the poverty rates by electorates, Jagajaga (which Heidelberg West is part of but not exclusive to), rated 23 out of the top 150 electoral regions deemed as those with the highest poverty rays (http://www.aph.gov.au/library/pubs/rn/2004-05/05rn49.htm).

According to the ABS statistics, as outlined in the above mentioned Banyule link, it states on page 29 there was, ‘smaller proportion of households in the highest income quartile, but a larger proportion in the lowest income quartile’. Also according to the same statistics on page 31, for those people living in Heidelberg West aged 15 and over, at least 53% had no qualifications, and 11.2% of people were not stated.

For many public housing dwellings, and there are numerous reports of slum like conditions, one example can be found at http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/slum-conditions-in-public-housing-exposed-20100227-pa91.html). West Heidelberg residents that live in these conditions are not that happy with their housing or their treatment, according to this article http://heidelberg-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/finally-a-vow-to-help-in-heidelberg-west/.

According to the Victorian Police web that allows you to check crime by postcodes, if you type in 3081 for Heidelberg Wes, you get a total of 5632.2 offences recorded in 2009, and 5400.7 in 2010 ( http://www.vicpolicenews.com.au/myplace.htmlhttp://www.vicpolicenews.com.au/index.php?option=com_statistics&task=search). Property damage, assaults, and a variety of theft types make up the top reported crimes according to these statistics.

I have lived in Heidelberg West now for 4 years. Like many, it is not by choice, but by necessity. I have heard a person brutally stabbed, see http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/tjay-tuncak-charged-over-heidelberg-west-stabbing-death-of-rowan-briam/story-e6frf7jo-1225805569949, and heard of a mother killing her 3 children before setting the house on fire, see http://www.f4joz.com/news/newspage.php?yr=11&id=4.

By my own accounts, and by the police statistics, pretty much at least every weekend I can hear and see quite easily people yelling, being abused, screaming, being drunk and disorderly, being assaulted, perpetrating violence, and driving and operating vehicles dangerously. I challenge any person who disbelieves the facts, to take a walk up Alamein Rd, from the start at the southern end to the end in the northern end, on a Friday or Saturday night after 11PM.

I have seen families robbed, and terrified. And I can whole heartedly say that if you have a family or children, please visit these areas outside of business or weekend hours. Go there late at night, drive around the suburb and the streets, or walk around these areas if you are game, and open your windows and eyes, and then consider whether this is the best choice for you and your loved ones. Even the kids around Heidelberg West are pretty scary, and they can easily be seen during the day (and not just on the weekends), yelling abuse at cars, while riding bikes, scooters, or just walking down the middle of the road.

Heidelberg West is cheap, it is close to major shops, hospitals, schools, public transport, and other amenities. However, as someone that has lived here, and someone that has called the police more times that I care to imagine, take it from me, keep looking!

Great for

  • Proximity to city
  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • So close to city

Not great for

  • Poverty
  • Education and living standards
  • Crime
  • Old buildings
  • Old commission places
  • Some areas look in need of an update
0
Notsobad

We have lived in this area since 2006, and to be honest have seen both good & bad. However, the area does seem to be steadily improving. With regard to those that live in community housing and compalin about the conditions-I have to say that it is my experience that the occupiers themselves are to blame for the conditions in which they live.
My husband & I own our house, and have not been robbed, broken into or harrassed in any way since living here. Yes, sometimes there are unsavoury people in the area of a night time...but having lived in Watsonia, Greensborough, Reservoir & Elwood, I can also say that I have experienced that everywhere.
With regards to the postcode 3081, you will find that that covers Heidelberg, Heidelberg Heights & Bellfield, so to attribute such high crime figures to one suburb is a bit out of proportion.
In response to the "brutal stabbing", I also heard that. The accused was not from Heidelberg West, or anywhere nearby, and was visiting someone in the area that night. Further more, the victim left the safety of his house to very angrily tell people to "F%^& off". While I think it is a tragedy that he died, and that it never should have happened, this is a one-off event, and had he stayed inside & called the police instead, he would be alive, there was no other threat to his safety on that night, and definitely no need for him to venture outside.
As to the mother who killed her own children & set the house on fire, that actually occurred in Heidelberg Heights, which is generally considered a good area. Someone with mental health issues can live anywhere, so it is unfair to suggest that this is in anyway indicative of the type of people that live in a suburb.
Generally, we find that if you keep to yourself, you get left alone. We park our cars in the driveway everynight, again, they have not been broken into or damaged at anytime in our 5-plus years in the area. The area is a great place to start out. It is close to public transport, hospitals, universities, schools, the freeway, and is only 11-12kms outside of the city.
One day this area is going to boom, but for the time being is a very affordable way to get into the property market. It allowed us the freedom of having our own home, while still being able to travel the world & enjoy our lives. I have read some of the other reviews below and see that there are other like-minded people in the area who enjoy what this improving suburb has to offer.
As mentioned below, the community renewal program that Banyule are currently conducting in the area to improve safety, asthetics and the parks in the area, and to make it more family friendly, are paying off. I can also vouch for how quiet the streets are during the day & on weekends- it is great!

If you're not happy living in the area, then move. It is that simple.

Treesnleaves
Treesnleaves

This is a great honest review, People who own a property in this suburb will not tell the truth, they have vested interest and then there is "Human Nature" we all want to defend decissions we have made, esspecially about where we live.
Honest answer about heidelberg west is, It is not nice at all.

CraigKirby

I have lived in Heidelberg West for the past 14 years, now whilst the area is not always perfect, generally my family are very happy there.
It is normally very quiet with many of the residents elderly, many of the residents have lived in West Heidelberg since the homes were built in the early 50's.
The area is very convenient to Northland shops, hospital, schools, employment and the University and it is an easy place to get to and from with the two main roads, Bell street and Southern road reducing traffic congestion. The parks are good and getting better all the time, the old houses are being knocked down and re-built, and many young families are moving in all the time.
I know there are pockets of West Heidelberg that I would not like to live in, but you could say the same about many areas
It has taken some time, but the area is definitely on the improve, people are taking a lot more pride in the appearance of their homes.
I have personally never been robbed or threatened and feel safe there, and would be happy to recommend the area to anyone wanting a great location with everything at your fingertips and very affordable homes.
It has been a great start for my family and I think the suburb will boom in the not too distant future, after all its all about location, location.

lauren120

Could you elaborate about what the bad pockets are? And are there any improvements since writing this?

Marcus Scholz
Marcus Scholz

The part near Olympic Village is the worst by a wide margin (north of southern road, west of oriel road). The rest is actually pretty nice now. They just demolished a huge swathe of old housing commission flats near Bell Street, so the feel of that area has changed considerably since late 2020.

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"Great start"

Cheaper suburb located within 12km of city. Perfect for young couples after their first home. Very walkable, lots of green parks and walking/bikes tracks that take you right into the city via a very scenic route! Little rough in some areas, but definitely improving.

Great for

  • Close to University, Hospitals and Shopping centres
  • So close to city
  • Proximity to city
  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet

Not great for

  • Some areas look in need of an update
  • Old buildings
  • Old commission places

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Students
3
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"On the up & up!"

This little suburb, historically known for being the site of the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games is like the little suburb that could! Haivng bought into the suburb back in early 2006, we have seen marked improvement in the area, and in house value! Being only 11km outside the city, it is one of thelast left secrets of melbourne. Quiet streets, excellent parks, lots of parking available. This is one of those suburbs set to boom within the next 10 years. Still a couple of hundred thousand below Melbourne's average house price, get in fast! Dedicated council program to address the unwanted aspects of the suburb, the unsavoury parts are slowly, but surely disappearing.

Great for

  • Council dedication to improve area
  • Quiet
  • Proximity to city

Not great for

  • Old commission places

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Students
1
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"Close to the city"

Steadily improving neighbourhood. Council are demolishing the older commission homes.
More first home buyers/young couples as elderly couples move on. Excellent parks, real draw card for kids. Bike tracks that go straight into city. Really quiet throughout day/weekends-limited traffic noise. Very central area-close to/ easy access to the freeways/Ring road.

Great for

  • Proximity to city

Not great for

  • Old buildings

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Students
1
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"a quiet achiever."

I've lived here for around 4 years. Gets better and better as more people with a purpose in life move in (by that, i mean students, professionals, creative types etc...) For a suburb that is 11 kms from the city, this place is excellent. Off street parking is an absolute bonus in this suburb - you certainly cant do that in many homes closer to the city. Our four bedroom home cost $250,000. We could probably sell it now for around $5-$600,000. Not that we plan to!! A little gem of a suburb whose colourful and historic past ('56 Olympics) will one day be a badge of honour.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Students
  • Trendy & Stylish
1
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"A neighbourhood on the improve"

My partner and I bought in January because this area was so affordable and was still fairly close to the city. We were surprised to find out how much green space there was along the Darebin Creek which is great for walking our dogs. This area has had a poor reputation in the past but there are many signs of improvement. Many new houses are being built and there is a local Neighbourhood Renewal project that is working to tackle local issues.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
1
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"The next boom suburb....................Just watch it grow............"

We bought here in 2002 and the Suburb is on the up and up. More young families are moving in and rebuilding/ renovating. Remember Collingwood, Carlton and parts of Hawthorne.....? All working class suburbs and now look at them.... Be smart.... at 11 klms from the CBD you'd be stupid to over look this suburb due to cosmetic reasons. A hop, skip and a jump from universities, hospitals and retail....a must buy/ invest. You can still get in under the Median house price. Blocks of land on average are in the mid- 600's.
Just watch it grow.....the next boom!!!!!

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Families with kids
1
Treesnleaves
Treesnleaves

Is it possible you are predicting it will boom because you bought here and you want to justify your own purchase?anyway your wrong, it hasnt boomed it has just got worse, terrable suburb with bad stagnant growth, this place is a poker machine, it eats your money!

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"cheap but improving place"

northland shopping centre, a few parks, expanding la trobe university, oriel road shopping mall, easy to rent out, more and more quality couples moved in.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
0
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"Cheap place to live if you don't mind the crime"

We've lived in this area for the last 7 years.
When living South of Bell Street we had not trouble with the neighborhood. When we moved above Bell Street, particularly West of Oriel Rd we have had trouble with hoon driving, drunks, assaults and drugs near our house.
I love the parklands nearby and it easy to walk to Northland Shopping Centre.
Also Ivanhoe and Heidelberg are very close by and have some lovely places to eat.
Public transport OK, easy to catch buses, but trains are further away.
The cost of rent is reasonably cheap, that'[s why we moved here.
There is a great playground nearby for kids of all ages.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
1
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