Perth, the sun-kissed capital of Western Australia, is situated on the western coast of the continent. To pinpoint exactly where Perth is, it’s located in the South West Land Division of Western Australia. Geographically, Perth is nestled on the Swan Coastal Plain, a strip of land bordered by the vast Indian Ocean to the west and the dramatic Darling Scarp to the east. This unique location places the majority of Perth’s metropolitan area between these two defining geographical features.
Historically, Perth’s origins are deeply intertwined with the Swan River. The city expanded outwards from the initial British settlements established along the banks of this significant river. Even today, Perth’s central business district and the crucial port of Fremantle are strategically located on the Swan River, highlighting its enduring importance to the city’s development and identity. Captain James Stirling founded Perth in 1829, designating it as the administrative hub for the nascent Swan River Colony.
Perth’s story is also deeply connected to its ancient land. The city stands on the traditional lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people, who have called this region home for at least 45,000 years. The name “Perth” itself has European roots, chosen in honour of the city of Perth in Scotland. Queen Victoria officially proclaimed Perth a city in 1856. The late 19th-century gold rushes in Western Australia triggered substantial population growth, transforming Perth. This expansion continued after World War II, fueled by consistent migration. Initially, immigrants primarily came from the British Isles and Southern Europe, but more recently, Perth has seen a growing influx of people of Asian descent, adding to its multicultural fabric.
In more recent times, particularly during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Perth’s role as a regional headquarters for major mining operations has become increasingly prominent due to a series of mining booms across Western Australia. This economic activity has further shaped the city’s growth and global connections. Consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities, Perth earned the classification of a Beta global city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network in 2020, solidifying its status as a significant urban center on the world stage.
