The Division of Fraser was created in 2019 and named in honour of Malcolm Fraser, Australia’s 22nd Prime Minister. While naming a Labor-leaning electorate after a Liberal prime minister might seem unusual, it reflects Fraser’s unique history and community values. Malcolm Fraser is warmly remembered by the Vietnamese community for his generosity towards refugees arriving in Australia after the Vietnam War—a legacy that continues to resonate across Melbourne’s west.
A Vibrant, Multicultural Community
Fraser is home to an extraordinarily diverse population, with nearly 50% of its 170,000 residents born overseas. The electorate represents more than 170 nationalities, with key communities originating from:
Vietnam
India
Philippines
China
New Zealand
Malta
England
The cultural landscape is enriched by residents with ancestry from 255 countries. According to the latest Census, 111 languages are spoken throughout Fraser. While English remains the most widely spoken language, many residents speak Vietnamese, Cantonese, Mandarin, Greek, Spanish, Punjabi, and Arabic at home.
A Community of Many Faiths
Fraser’s diversity extends to religion, with 30 faiths represented across the electorate. The most widely practised religions include:
Catholicism
Buddhism
Islam
Hinduism
Greek Orthodox Christianity
Christianity (non-denominational)
Baptist
Sikhism
Suburbs and Local Government Areas within Fraser
The Division of Fraser covers a variety of suburbs in Melbourne’s west, including:
Albion, Ardeer, Braybrook, Brooklyn, Cairnlea, Deer Park, Derrimut, Footscray, West Footscray, Kealba, Kingsville, Maidstone, Maribyrnong, St Albans, Seddon, Sunshine, Sunshine North, Sunshine West, Tottenham and Yarraville.
Fraser also spans parts of the Brimbank and Maribyrnong local government areas—two regions known for their community spirit, infrastructure investment, and business growth. Following the 2025 federal election, Spotswood will also be a part of Fraser.
A Rich History and a Bright Future
The Division of Fraser reflects the cultural diversity of modern Australia. With a thriving Vietnamese population alongside residents from Indian, Chinese, and European backgrounds, Fraser is truly multilingual and multicultural. This diversity strengthens the community and fosters opportunities to celebrate individual heritage while building a shared future.
