Cultural pluralism and inclusive urban revitalisation: The experience of Dandenong, Melbourne

Abstract

This paper examines urban revitalisation in Dandenong, a key activity centre in Melbourne and one of Australia’s most culturally diverse localities. Conducted in two phases, the research focused on state-led revitalisation between 2006–2021. The first phase of the research (2015–2019) formed part of an international study on collaborative urban governance post-Global Financial Crisis, using predominantly qualitative methods (Davies et al., 2022). The second phase employed statistical and geospatial analyses (2011–2021) to examine the extent of superdiversity and potential gentrification risks in Dandenong, as two lesser-understood phenomena emerging from the first phase of the study. This paper first seeks to identify the social and spatial conditions that supported superdiversity to consolidate as a key feature of Dandenong over time. Framed by Fincher and Iveson’s (2008) social logics—redistribution, recognition, and encounter—the paper then critically explains how inclusive revitalisation emerged in this superdiverse activity centre. We found that a well-resourced revitalisation program led by the Victorian Government and decisive, revitalisation works led by the local council, the City of Greater Dandenong built upon existing community-based mutual support networks and place-making activities to instigate a process of revitalisation. We then offer reflections on the qualities of public policy and collaboration, including values like openness to difference and acknowledgment of interconnectedness, which supported distinct opportunities for learning and solidarity in problem-solving the complex issue of urban decline in Dandenong. However, the paper also reveals limitations, where recognition of difference fell short, exposing some exclusionary elements within the revitalisation process. The findings underscore the importance of planning with social justice principles, local capacity, and recognising the value of cultural diversity and pluralism for urban renewal efforts.