A new tempo for Perth’s home of music and entertainment.
As part of the $1.7 billion Perth City Deal, $150.3 million has been allocated to the Perth Concert Hall redevelopment, comprising $134.3 million from the WA Government, $12 million from the Australian Government, and $4 million from the City of Perth.
The investment will restore the much-loved heritage building’s architectural integrity, preserve its renowned acoustics, distinctive features and enhance the surrounding outdoor spaces. The improved facilities will allow for broader community engagement and equitable access.
Architecture credited to WITH and OMA, animation credited to Panizzon Studio.
The redevelopment of this historic building will introduce a range of enhancements designed to elevate the venue as a premier destination for the performing arts.
Key features of the project include improved accessibility from street level as well as improved backstage facilities, which will support patrons, artists and production teams, ensuring seamless performances and a better overall experience for all.
A complete replacement of seating will not only enhance comfort but also improve sightlines in the hall, making every concert an unforgettable occasion, while preserving the building’s world class acoustics. A new fully automated stage lift will streamline production logistics, making it easier to host a diverse array of performances.
This exciting project will realise a long-standing commitment to provide WASO with a home, co-locating the administrative and orchestral staff in the one location.
A full revitalisation of the backstage facilities will improve performer experience, ensuring the Perth Concert Hall retains its reputation as a desired performance venue into the future.
Safety and compliance upgrades will be prioritised, with significant improvements to the building fabric and systems throughout to ensure a safe and secure environment for all attendees.
Visitors will benefit from expansion of the level two foyer towards the river which will be home to new bar areas, providing convenient refreshment options and fostering a lively social atmosphere before and after performances. The addition of landscaped event spaces will create inviting outdoor areas for gatherings and festivals, enriching the cultural fabric of the precinct.
Venue closes
Contract award and construction commences
Construction
Construction complete, testing and handover
Official opening
The management order for the building was held by the City of Perth for 50 years. It has now returned to the State for ongoing care and control.
The Perth Concert Hall project is governed by an inter-agency Steering Committee with the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) as the Chair. The Steering Committee has representation from the following WA Government agencies:
As well as:
Throughout the delivery of the project, the stakeholders will continue to be engaged, to ensure the vision of the Perth Concert Hall is delivered. Some of the stakeholders have included:
For the redevelopment to take place safely, the Perth Concert Hall and its forecourts are closed to the public during construction works.
Demolition works are underway until July 2025. Main works are set to commence November 2025.
If you are interested in project updates, register your interest below.
Western Australians have been reflecting on half a century of world-class performances at Perth Concert Hall as the much-loved venue turns 50.
The St Georges Terrace building, designed by architects Jeffrey Howlett and Don Bailey, was the first concert hall built in Australia after World War II. It was constructed by Sabemo (WA) and opened by Governor-General, Sir Paul Hasluck, on 26 January 1973.
The gala opening ball was attended by then Prime Minister Gough Whitlam. The West Australian and South Australian Symphony Orchestras joined forces for that first performance, in front of 1700 invited guests. Other famous visits include Queen Elizabeth II in October 1981 as part of her Jubilee; and fun fact, a pastel pink toilet was installed for Her Majesty to use.
Perth Concert Hall has over the last 50 years become renowned by artists and audiences for having some of the finest acoustics in the world. Great classical ensembles the London, Chicago and Berlin Philharmonic Orchestras have performed at the hall as well as globally known artists including Billy Joel, Ray Charles, PJ Harvey, Nina Simone, Sting, Tim Minchin, KD Lang and many more.
In 2011 Perth Concert Hall was voted by artists as the best venue of its kind in the country, according to a survey of the acoustic excellence of Australia’s 20 major concert halls. In 2016 the hall, which seats 1,891 people and houses a 3,000-pipe organ, won the Australian Institute of Architects National Awards ‘Enduring Architecture Award’.
The venue – with its winding staircase and bold red carpet – is a focal point for culture and arts. There are too many highlights to mention but the Peony Pavilion took place inside the hall as part of Perth International Arts Festival in 2000, and Perth Festival’s contemporary music hub set up in the hall in 2020.
In recent years improvements have been made to the building including upgrades to lighting and the auditorium. Further work is scheduled for 2024 – the Perth Concert Hall redevelopment is set to improve disability access, the forecourts and preserve key heritage features, especially the acoustics. The project is jointly funded by the State, the Commonwealth and the City of Perth as part of the $1.5 billion Perth City Deal.
As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, Perth Concert Hall is running guided tours, a special exhibition of historical items and memorabilia, and a Golden Ticket Giveaway.
Festivities will continue through to March on the mainstage with rock, pop and classical concerts, talks, comedy and more. Featured artists and guests include Chef Yotam Ottolenghi, Kronos Quartet, Musica Viva and WASO for Perth Festival, and The Proclaimers.