Mildura is in the far north-west of Victoria on the Murray River. Across the river is New South Wales and the South Australian border is only about 100 kilometres away. The district is known for its production of fruit, olives, grains, vegetables and wine and has a culturally diverse population.

In Mildura’s total population of over 50,000 there are over 1000 Indigenous people. Apart from Indigenous students, school populations reflect the character of the local community and there are students from a variety of non-English speaking backgrounds.

Unemployment is above the state average, and other indicators also show relative socio-economic disadvantage.