Melbourne GPO

Melbourne GPO is one of the country’s most iconic public buildings and for this reason, serves as an important point of attraction for visitors in the city.

Located on the corner of the famous Bourke Street Mall and Elizabeth Street, today the Melbourne GPO is home to a range of retail stores and cafes.

Melbourne GPO, Historic Building, Retail Shop Stores & Opening Hours

Its foundations were laid in 1859 and construction was completed in 1867. A third level was added to the structure in 1887 and the building operated as a general post office until around 1992. In 2001, developers won the rights to develop a retail complex here and so the transition was made from post office to retail hub.

To understand the significance of this building is to the city of Melbourne, it is important to know that all distances measured from Melbourne CBD are actually taken from the GPO!

“Meet me at the purse” is also a popular catch-cry for many Melbournians, as there is a giant purse which rests outside the GPO which serves as an easily distinguishable meeting spot. Created by artist Simon Perry, the giant pink purse has been a familiar site at the GPO since 1994.

Today, you can enjoy shopping at the various outlets located here, with some of the most popular designer brands represented at the complex. Start off with the latest fashion at the giant H&M store before getting classic and personalised jewellery at Larsen Jewellery. Enjoy coffee at Federal Coffee Palace before grabbing pizza at Ca De Vin. Gekkazan and Mama’s Buoi are also worth checking out under the restaurants and cafe section.

You can get to the Melbourne GPO by taking any of the Elizabeth Street trams (#19, #57 or #59) or Bourke Street Trams (#86 or #96).