- Perth selected to host the 2027 Australian American Leadership Dialogue
- High-profile international platform to showcase WA's defence, critical minerals, space, and advanced technology capabilities to Australian and US leaders
- Announcement highlights WA's growing role in defence, security, and the Australia-United States alliance
- Cook Labor Government committed to diversifying the economy so it remains strong
An influential Australia-United States leadership forum will be held in Perth for the first time in 2027, reflecting Western Australia's growing strategic importance in global defence.
The Australian American Leadership Dialogue (AALD) is an important forum for fostering connections between Australian and American leaders and advancing discussions on key issues shaping the bilateral partnership, including defence, security, technology, trade, and regional stability.
The announcement that Perth will host the forum next year was made overnight at the closing ceremony of the 2026 AALD in Washington DC. The choice of Perth is a strong endorsement of WA's growing role in advancing Australia's defence, security and strategic priorities.
WA is increasingly central to co-operation between Australia and the United States. The State is home to HMAS Stirling - a key location for AUKUS implementation - and a hub for Australia's defence industry, critical minerals sector, space capabilities, and advanced technologies.
The 2027 AALD is expected to attract senior political, military, industry, and academic leaders from both countries. It will provide a significant opportunity to showcase WA's defence capabilities, innovation strengths, and investment opportunities while delivering economic reputational benefits to the State.
As stated by Premier Roger Cook:
"Securing the 2027 Australian American Leadership Dialogue for Perth is a major achievement for WA, and a strong endorsement of our growing international profile.
"The event will bring influential leaders from across Australia and the United States to our State, creating opportunities for local businesses, strengthening international connections, and delivering valuable economic benefits for WA.
"AUKUS represents one of Western Australia's best chances to diversify our economy through becoming the largest naval maintenance and shipbuilding hub in the southern hemisphere and make defence industries the second biggest employer in the State behind resources.
"Hosting the AALD provides an opportunity to showcase WA as a globally connected destination for investment, innovation, and major international events."
As stated by Defence Industries Minister David Michael:
"Perth's selection as host city reflects WA's increasingly important role in Australia's defence and strategic landscape.
"As the home of HMAS Stirling and a key location for AUKUS, our State is helping shape the future of Australia's defence capability and alliance co-operation with the United States.
"The AALD will provide a unique opportunity to strengthen relationships with senior leaders from government, defence, and industry while showcasing the expertise and capability of Western Australia's defence sector."
