The Yarra River and Gardiners Creek approximates the boundary of two Kulin groups, with the Boonwurrung to the south and the Wurundjeri to the north.

[5] A small hamlet known as "Gardiners Creek" (1851 Melbourne Postal Directory) was established, but it diminished with the gold rush.

According to Howitt's notes, the place where Gardiner made his home was called Koyūng-bort in the Woiwurrung language.

Significant heritage buildings listed on the Victorian Heritage Register include Stonington mansion (1890), Malvern tram depot, the former ES&A Bank (on the corner of Glenferrie Road and High Street) and Malvern railway station.

The Malvern Police Station is located at 288 Glenferrie Road opposite the new Stonnington council building and next to the town hall.

Malvern Police Station is also home to Protective Service Officers with the Transit Division.

In addition, Tooronga station also services the northern section of the suburb, on the Glen Waverley line.