The Mount was named after Viscount Melville, the first Lord of the Admiralty, in 1791 by Captain George Vancouver.

[4] The suburb is bounded by Albany Highway to the north and east, by Hanrahan Road to the west and by Princess Royal Harbour to the south.

It is set within native bush with walk trails and a sealed road to the top.

A distinctive observation tower is situated at the peak that offers panoramic views as far as the Stirling Range to the north.

[5] The western side of Mount Melville is the site of the town's main waste management facility.