City of Perth Council has endorsed two important documents that together set the direction for Perth's future.
The first, Shaping Perth City Centre Towards 2036 and Beyond, is a bold new plan, developed in collaboration with internationally renowned urban strategy firm Gehl, that sets a long-term framework to support growth and economic vitality.
It marks a new chapter in the 30-year collaboration between the City of Perth and Gehl, and builds on previous studies that helped transform the city through people-focused urban design and major projects including Elizabeth Quay, Perth City Link and the ECU City Campus.
City of Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said the framework reflects Perth's evolution into a confident, world-class capital city and the responsibility to plan boldly for what comes next.
"Perth is a vibrant, globally recognised city and a growing economic powerhouse. Our city centre must continue to evolve to support that growth and unlock its full potential," the Lord Mayor said.
"Shaping Perth City Centre Towards 2036 and Beyond sets a clear, people-first direction for that evolution ensuring Perth remains liveable, prosperous and sustainable for decades to come."
Developed with extensive input from the local community, industry professionals, State Government agencies and City of Perth staff, the framework sets out a vision for a city centre that is vibrant, connected, climate-resilient and rich in culture.
The plan outlines five key goals, supported by practical actions, and identifies five major projects designed to attract more residents and visitors, improve streets and public spaces and better connect the city centre with Kings Park and the Swan River (Derbal Yerrigan).
The Lord Mayor said the framework champions a vibrant, welcoming and magnetic city centre for residents, workers and visitors alike.
"With our city centre population projected to reach 55,000 residents by 2036 and up to 90,000 by 2050, planning for the future isn't optional it's essential," he said.
"This framework puts people at the heart of our future city prioritising high-quality public spaces, greater housing choice, thriving local businesses and rich cultural experiences that encourage people to explore the city and stay longer.
"It will guide future planning, investment and partnerships across the city centre, and inform the ongoing delivery and future updates of the City of Perth's Capital City Plan."
Key projects presented in the framework include:
- North–South Connectors: Transforming William Street into a green spine and Barrack Street into a cultural spine, alongside a new "People's Walk" linking Central Perth Station, Forrest Place, Carillon City and Elizabeth Quay.
- Buneenboro Loop: Creating a connected waterfront experience linking Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River), Kaarta Gar-up (Kings Park), Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, Elizabeth Quay and Langley Park.
- Living Streets: Supporting new residential neighbourhoods across the city centre, with a focus on King, Pier, Irwin and Queen streets.
- Malls Re-imagined: Repositioning Hay and Murray Street Malls as a vibrant, mixed-use destination that meets evolving city needs.
- East–West Transit Corridors: Renewing St Georges Terrace and Wellington Street as people-first transit corridors.
The framework also directly informs our newly endorsed Draft Perth Capital City Plan - Towards 2036 and Beyond.
This overarching strategic blueprint sets the vision and direction for Perth over the next decade and guides detailed planning, investment, and decision-making.
The draft was shaped by input from more than 2,000 community members and stakeholders. Now, the wider community is invited to have their say. Visit Engage Perth to complete the survey and provide your feedback.
Together, these plans ensure we're planning confidently for a growing capital city that is liveable, prosperous and sustainable.
