Bright times ahead for the City of Light

For generations, Perth was one of the world’s best-kept secrets. It’s near perfect weather, great economy and natural surroundings were treasured by locals.  

But Australia’s only capital city on the Indian Ocean rim was famously thrust onto the world stage in 1962, in a moment that earned Perth the title City of Light. 

As astronaut John Glenn became the first American to orbit Earth, the people of Perth united in a symbolic gesture, turning on every light and torch they could find so Glenn could see their city glowing from space. The extraordinary display of unity and imagination captured Glenn’s and the world’s attention – and the city’s pride has shone ever since.

In recent years, the City of Perth has quietly begun a powerful transformation. Once seen as modest and under the radar, it is now gaining global recognition as one of the world’s most liveable cities. Already boasting a population of almost 33,000 residents, Perth is becoming an increasingly sought-after place to call home.

This recognition is more than symbolic. 

Perth was recently named a Tree City of the World for the second consecutive year and awarded Platinum Waterwise Council status – clear signs of its commitment to sustainability and liveability. With 43 parks spanning 116 hectares, the city offers a unique balance of urban energy and natural beauty, making it a haven for nature lovers.

And Perth’s green transformation is accelerating.

The city has set ambitious targets to expand urban greening across public and private spaces by 2036. From routine infill projects, to large-scale community initiatives like Tree Month in May, Perth is growing greener by the day.

This commitment to sustainability is also reflected in the City of Perth’s role as the only Australian member of the World Energy Cities Partnership, and its support for electric vehicle infrastructure and adoption.

Getting around Perth is easier than ever.

With continuous upgrades to roads and parking, convenience remains a priority for the city. Alternative transport is now front and centre, with extended bike paths and a reliable, free public CAT bus network. The city also gave the green light to an e-scooter share ride scheme, making it even easier for people to choose their preferred way to get around.

Perth proudly celebrates its cultural diversity through a vibrant year-round calendar of events, campaigns, and activations.

This world-class program draws visitors from across the globe and reinforces Perth’s reputation as a dynamic and welcoming destination. Recent accolades speak to this, with the 2023 Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail named Best Community Event, and Perth Town Hall awarded Venue of the Year at the Australian Event Awards.

Bold visions of future Perth are coming to life.

In partnership with global urban design firm Gehl this year, Perth is planning its next major evolution. With the population expected to grow to 55,000 by 2036, new strategies are being developed to make the city even more liveable, sustainable, and prosperous.

Gehl’s work has shaped Perth for over 30 years. Their 1994 study sparked significant enhancements to the city’s public realm, including the creation of the Cathedral Square precinct, whilst the 2009 study lead to the realisation of Elizabeth Quay, the development of Perth City Link, and the proposal of a Riverfront Masterplan.

The Riverfront Masterplan is a bold initiative to better connect the city to its riverfront and transform it into a world-class destination. Currently in community consultation, the plan is evolving with the input and ideas of Perth’s people. 

By reimagining how the riverfront is accessed and enjoyed, the city is preparing to meet the needs of a growing population, while enhancing its unique identity.

Fuelling this transformation is the $1.75 billion Perth City Deal, a landmark 10-year partnership between Federal, State and Local governments. This investment is delivering major infrastructure projects that will sustainably support the city’s rapidly growing population.

Among the most impactful is the new Edith Cowan University City Campus, set to open in 2026. Planning to welcome more than 10,000 students and staff from day one, the campus will bring global talent into the heart of the city, creating a thriving hub of education and innovation.

Other revitalisations to the WACA Ground and Perth Concert Hall, will further strengthen Perth’s status as a cultural and sporting destination.

Perth’s business landscape is thriving too.

With ongoing grant support from the City of Perth, new businesses are launching each month. A luxury shopping precinct has now been defined along Murray Street, and Perth contributes an impressive $91.1 billion in Gross Regional Product. The city represents nearly 13,000 businesses and supports around 230,000 local jobs.

As the skyline evolves and the population grows, Perth continues to embrace change while staying true to its welcoming spirit.

It’s a city confident in its future, proud of its past, and ready to shine even brighter.