Clayton is home to the prestigiousMonash University, which gives that the suburb a young and vibrant energy that lives alongside its ethnically diverse community of internationals and young families.
The area is also home to many schools and a multicultural shopping strip that makes it one of the best places in Melbourne to buy food from around the world. At less than 20kms south-east of the city, Clayton is also conveniently located close to the monumental Chadstone Shopping Centre, where visitors are spoilt for choice with an extensive range of shops on offer.
Residents of Clayton hail from 112 countries. Few places in Australia have more birthplaces represented, which is why Clayton ranks as one of the most diverse suburbs in the country. The 2011 Census found that 29.9% of Clayton's 15,543 population was born in Australia, 17.8% in China, 10.3% in India, and 5.3% in Malaysia.
Clayton has a peculiar charm. The area revolves around the university while also playing host to a multicultural community that gives the area a distinct and beautiful atmosphere. That’s why it’s a great place to come for food and shopping. On Clayton Road, between Centre and North Roads, there is a cute, compact strip of authentic restaurants reflecting the diversity of the area, which is celebrated every year with the Clayton Street Festival. Ping's Dumpling Kitchen is particularly noteworthy and well worth a visit.
Across the road from Ping’s stands Clayton's Fresh Fruit Mart, which was established by Italian migrants almost 40 years ago and remains in family hands right to this day. It stocks a vast array of colourful fruits and vegetables – many of which will be unfamiliar to most shoppers. It’s a direct reflection of the diversity of the area. You’ll find things here that you will never find in any of the big supermarket chains.
Clayton's diversity makes it a beautiful place to live and visit. There’s no better way to see it than by jumping in a Hertz rental car.
