Western Australia's most ambitious entertainment project has taken a major step forward with the state government revealing never-before-seen images of the $2.175 billion Burswood entertainment precinct.
A Transformative Vision for Perth
Premier Roger Cook and Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti have unveiled stunning new visuals that showcase the scale and ambition of the entertainment precinct planned for the Burswood Peninsula. The project represents one of the most significant cultural infrastructure investments in Western Australia's history.
The $2.175 billion development will create a world-class entertainment destination adjacent to Optus Stadium, positioning Perth as a major events capital. The precinct is designed to host everything from international concerts and festivals to sporting events and cultural celebrations.
Key Features and Timeline
The newly released images reveal a sprawling complex that includes multiple entertainment venues, public spaces, and hospitality offerings. The development will feature a 10,000-seat live entertainment arena capable of hosting major international acts, complementing the existing stadium facilities.
Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2025, with the first major events expected to take place in 2028. The project timeline aligns with the state government's broader vision for transforming the Burswood Peninsula into a premier destination for both locals and visitors.
Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti emphasized that the precinct would be seamlessly integrated with public transport options, including the nearby Perth Stadium Station. "This isn't just about building venues; it's about creating an accessible, vibrant destination that all Western Australians can enjoy," she stated.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The Burswood entertainment precinct is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Western Australia. Projections indicate it will create thousands of jobs during construction and hundreds of ongoing positions once operational.
Premier Roger Cook highlighted the strategic importance of the development: "This precinct will put Western Australia on the map as a must-visit destination for major events and entertainment. It's about keeping our entertainment dollars in the state and attracting visitors from across the country and around the world."
The development addresses a long-standing gap in Perth's major events infrastructure, particularly for mid-sized venues that can host international touring acts. Currently, many major performers bypass Western Australia due to limited appropriate venue options.
The 10,000-seat arena will fill a critical gap in the market, sitting between the larger Optus Stadium capacity and smaller existing venues like RAC Arena. This strategic positioning allows Perth to compete for a wider range of events and performances.
Integration with Existing Infrastructure
The new precinct has been carefully designed to complement the existing facilities at Optus Stadium and the surrounding parklands. Planning includes pedestrian-friendly connections between venues and enhanced public spaces for pre-event gatherings and post-event celebrations.
Accessibility remains a key focus, with improved transport links and parking solutions being developed as part of the broader infrastructure package. The location's proximity to the city center and public transport hubs makes it an ideal choice for major event hosting.
As Western Australia continues to position itself as a leading events destination, the Burswood entertainment precinct represents a crucial piece of the puzzle. The project demonstrates the state government's commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure that serves both current and future generations.
With construction set to begin in the coming year, Western Australians can look forward to watching this transformative project take shape on the Burswood Peninsula, creating a new heartbeat for entertainment in Perth.
