Another cause for concern has arisen over the contested $250 million revamp of the Queen Victoria Market, this time regarding the Melbourne City Council’s plan for two new high-rise towers.

After the plans were released on Thursday, Minister for Planning Richard Wynne visited the 140-year-old institution to express his concerns over the proposal.

While he agreed that the market needed to be refurbished, he emphasised that respecting and maintaining the site’s heritage was of prime importance, and that any additions should not “overwhelm” the area.

The India duo behind Original Chai Co. – one of the best chais in Melbourne. Find them on Queen Street every Sunday.
The two sites are planned to be built adjacent to the market, with one on the ‘Munro site’ on the corner of Therry and Queen streets, and the other on Franklin Street, each standing at a minimum height of 30 storeys with the potential to go higher.

If all goes ahead, the plan will require that the heritage-listed sheds currently housing the souvenir and fruit stalls be dismantled, restored, and then replaced.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle on the other hand was full of confidence over the proposal, stating that it was the right way forward for the popular site.

Though he acknowledged the minister’s concerns, he was adamant it would breathe new life into the market space.


Selling it the Greek way. When you walk into the produce aisles or the Meat and Fish Hall, it’s inevitable that you will hear the booming voices of QMV’s market traders. Spruiking started in the early days of the market as part of the camaraderie and competition between neighbouring traders. It remains today as an authentic part of the market experience. 

Cr Doyle also highlighted that if the council and state government withdrew from the project it could put the opportunity for such a major investment off the agenda for at least another two decades.

While matters of heritage are yet to be resolved by Heritage Victoria, if all goes ahead, the market project will follow the council’s proposed five-year plan.

Aside from the towers, the fruit and vegetable stalls near the Deli Hall will be moved to the market area on Peel Street, with restaurants and takeaway stalls put in their place.

Joe’s parents started Absolutely Fresh in 1969; their family business has been at the market for nearly 50 years. Joe grew up at the market, and started working here full time when he was 14. He loves the social aspect of the market experience. He enjoys meeting people from different cultures, and he especially loves seeing regulars that have been coming to his stall for over 40 years. Say hi to Joe next time you’re at the market. You can find him in A Shed on any market day.

The Greek food truck. A QMV market favourite.

QMV is a unique multicultural hub.

Have you ever noticed the tasting tables inside the Dairy Hall? On most market days, there are traders showcasing samples of their best cheeses, breads, dips and all sorts of other creations from both Australia and Europe.