Leading Cities > Perth
Perth's global ambitions - Building a world-class brand
Australia’s sunniest capital city, the city of Perth has a lot to offer the world.
A stunning natural environment, great weather and strong economy, make it a fantastic city to live in or visit.
But Perth has more to offer than great beaches and a resource sector strong enough to power Australia. If you didn't know that Perth has remote operations capabilities impressive enough that NASA comes here to learn from us, you're not alone.
To make a mark on the global map, the Perth brand needs work.
In this report, Perth's top business and civic leaders share their insights to explore where Perth stands today in terms of economic growth and global marketability, and what the city must do to secure its place on the world stage.
Read it now >>
Paula Rogers
"By planning and activating our collective vision now, we can shape a vibrant city that future generations will be proud to call home."
CHAPTERS IN THE REPORT:
Leading Cities > Perth > Economy
The economic outlook for Perth is bright, thanks to a thriving mining and resources industry.
With a remarkable 4.7% economic growth rate in 2023 (double the national average) and the lowest unemployment rate in the nation at 3.4%, Perth is thriving.
There are indications of a transition towards a more sustainable, innovative, and globally connected economic landscape for the city.
Sydney's position as a financial hub is bolstered by a skilled workforce and a robust regulatory environment. Other positive developments include the establishment of a major tech hub near Central Station, the shift towards a circular economy, and innovation driving growth in the technology, finance, and education sectors.
However, there's always room for improvement. To build on its natural advantages, Perth needs to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on mining.
Decarbonisation and the world's transition to green energy are key opportunities for Perth to use its abundant resources and turn them into competitive advantages.
The city is also building its capacity as a trading and travel hub, with a $5bn upgrade underway at Perth Airport. Continued investment in infrastructure that connects Perth to the rest of Australia and the world is also key to unlocking the full potential of Perth's economy.
Read the report for further details on the Perth economic outlook.
Peter Klinken
"We can’t continue just taking big rocks, turning them into little rocks and putting them on a ship. We need to capitalise on our comparative advantages, invest at scale and attract the talent to ensure it takes off."
Leading Cities > Perth > Infrastructure
Housing supply is the biggest issue for the Perth property market.
Perth's urban development is focused on addressing housing affordability and supply issues.
But houses aren't built overnight, and the population's preference for detached housing has created an unsustainable urban sprawl.
This is leading Perth policymakers and property developers to look at additional solutions, including mixed-use developments, more urban infill and an increase in high-density living , particularly around major transit corridors.
The State Government has also announced measures to tackle housing and homelessness issues, including a $400m expansion of the Social and Affordable Housing Investment Fund and $144m for new housing projects.
Further details on Perth's urban development can be found in the report >
Kylee Schoonen
"Our intent is to provide buildings and spaces that foster strong engagement with their future inhabitants and create monetary and social value through their quality, creating community and celebrating the natural landscape.”
Leading Cities > Perth > Business
Perth's resources industry remains a cornerstone of the local economy, with a strong focus on mining and the export of raw materials.
But Perth is more than a mining town; it has a diverse range of industries contributing to its growth.
The city boasts a developed services economy, and there is growing interest in enhancing Perth’s downstream processing and expanding into new value-adding production activities for our mineral resources.
Industrial tourism also offers opportunities, with waste-to-energy plants like the Kwinana Energy Recovery facility and the East Rockingham Waste to Energy facility showcasing world-leading industrial practices.
Industrial tourism also offers opportunities, with waste-to-energy plants like the Kwinana Energy Recovery facility and the East Rockingham Waste to Energy facility showcasing world-leading industrial practices.
Get more insights into Perth's industrial opportunities and challenges in the full report >
James Komninos
"With advances in technology we might be able to get back into manufacturing. We also need to invest more than our competitors to strike home our advantage in areas such as resources, agriculture, biotech and space.”
Sustainability in Perth is largely focused on going green to power our future
Perth is facing significant challenges due to climate change, with average summer temperatures increasing by about 3°C since 1910, well above the national average.
Part of the approach to address this challenge is the City of Perth's Urban Greening Strategy, which aims to build a greener, cooler, and more resilient city by 2036.
However, the barriers to a more sustainable future include competing interests in a state that owes its wealth to fossil fuel. There is a need for strong leadership and bipartisan support to effectively address decarbonisation and mitigate climate change.
Find out more about Perth's climate adaptation in the report >
Peta Ashworth
“If we don’t act, Perth will become unlivable. If we want to preserve the things we like about our way of life, there is a need to invest in cleaner forms of energy. But if we can decarbonise WA, we can decarbonise the world.”
Leading Cities > Perth > Talent pool
Craig Amos
"The investment we need to make in science, engineering and technology is massive but if we’re going to move the dial in terms of Perth becoming a global hub, we need a lot more impetus and support to bring those skills here.”
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thank you to the following individuals for their valuable input:
Professor Peta Ashworth –
Director, Curtin Energy Institute for Energy Transition
Michael Chaney -
Chairman, Wesfarmers
Adrian Fin –
Director, H-U
Peter Klinken -
WA Chief Scientist
Mike McKenna –
CEO, Optus Stadium
Mark Tomasz –
CEO, Keystart
Kate West –
Co-Chair Australasia, Arup
Warwick Carte
Director, Perth South West Metropolitan Alliance
Cath Hart –
CEO, REIWA
Tania Hudson -
CEO, Chamber of Arts and Culture WA
Sonia Mackay-Coghill –
Vice President, (Engagement), Edith Cowan University
Anita Percudani –
Executive Director, Realmark
David Tsai –
Acting CEO, Crown Resorts (former CEO, Crown Perth)
Basil Zempilas –
Lord Mayor, City of Perth