Kaya,
I wanted to write about AI this month, so I asked AI for a fresh perspective on the topic du jour. It politely informed me that almost everything had already been written, but like the good cheerleader it is, encouraged me to have a go and then proceeded to give me a listicle. To be honest, AI sounded a little tired about talking about itself. |
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However, it will need to get its mojo back because we know we’re really only at the start of the AI journey. AI is something that is occupying the time, minds and boardrooms of many of our Committee for Perth members.
A recent survey by Perth’s Tenet Advisory focused on how Western Australian organisations are making decisions about AI strategy - who leads it, what information they are drawing on, how they are weighing up trade-offs, and how they are defining success. Along a five-stage adoption scale, 12% of organisations are in the ‘watching’ phase, 32% testing, 46% scaling, 6% embedding and 4% leading.
Tenet found that ‘organisations have done the visible, tangible work of deploying AI. They have largely not done the less visible, harder work of governing, measuring and strategically grounding it.’ Governance is lagging adoption: only 6% said their board was actively shaping AI strategy, and fewer than one in five had formally tested whether AI changes the assumptions their current strategy is built on. AI occupies a lot of our thinking time at Committee for Perth as it has the potential to change the nature of cities. When knowledge work becomes location-agnostic and when businesses change how, when and where they operate, what happens to cities that are built around office districts?
Cities the world over are recognising the need to change the city experience as work patterns shift – commuting, commercial and residential real estate, tourism, retail and education are just some areas being transformed. The City of Perth recently launched its Capital City Plan and the Gehl study, ‘Shaping Perth City Centre – Towards 2036 and Beyond’. These documents frame the city centre as a vibrant and welcoming place for everyone - residents, visitors and students, as well as for business owners and office employees. Perhaps we should stop calling the centre of Perth the CBD (Central Business District)? We could return to the old days when we went into ‘town’ (I asked AI and it suggested City Heart ♥).
And beyond the city heart, what about Perth’s ‘second centres’ like Fremantle and Joondalup, and our suburbs? I’m predicting a rise in neighbourhood precincts and a city that is less an egg with a single yolk, and more a pomegranate – a city composed of many distinct neighbourhoods, bound together by a shared urban fabric.
The rise and rise of AI will also see Perth’s attractiveness as a destination for digital nomads grow. Our perfect position in the world’s most populous time zone and our unparalleled quality of life will underwrite this.
AI is not just changing how and where we work, it is redefining the skills required to survive and thrive in the workplace. Recently I was part of The West Australian CEO Voice Boardroom forum at AIM WA, and we focused on the future-ready workforce and the skills that will matter. AI quickly became a core focus of the discussion, as we agreed on the need for human skills and nuances that AI can’t (yet) replicate: critical thinking, compassion, collaboration, curiosity.
Technological revolutions usually change the course of what is scarce. When there is a profusion of information and ‘intelligence’ (no matter how artificial) the value shifts elsewhere. So, the valued competences for jobs of the future will involve sparse assets – accountability, taste, trust, courage, relationship-building - and the question is not ‘which jobs will disappear?’ but ‘what becomes more valuable when knowledge is not limited?’ It is clear that the unfolding landscape of AI use in our businesses and homes will fundamentally change Perth. However, the most liveable city will never be the one with the smartest AI; it will be the one that uses it carefully and cleverly to make life better for its people. |
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| Until next month! Tania Hudson Chief Executive Officer Committee for Perth |
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The Noongar season of Djilba is the start of the massive flowering explosion that happens in the South West,
beginning with the yellow flowering plants such as the acacias. |
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Our top picks of culture, creativity and community events happening across the Perth region this month, celebrating what makes our city uniquely Perth. |
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1 – 31 August | Plateful Perth – Feast your senses this August; for four weeks, venues across Perth city will dish up special offers and one-off experiences you won’t find on the regular menu. Yum! Explore the program here.
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4 August | Fremantle Innovation Exchange – The Fremantle Chamber of Commerce is launching this exciting new initiative that will showcase some of Freo’s leading creatives and innovators. Featuring a keynote from Sarah Booth from Spacemrkt, the forum will demonstrate how successful ventures are being built across design, digital media, arts & culture. RSVP here for this free event.
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5 August | Keys to Hope – This Homelessness Week, St Barts is holding a community activation to highlight the importance of safe housing, stability, and support for people experiencing homelessness. From 8am to 6pm, add a key to St Barts’ picket fence outside Wesley Uniting Church to represent a step towards unlocking hope in our community. See invite here.
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5 August I Safe Girls, Strong Clubs – This session, led by the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport, explores how effective safeguarding practices can support young women and girls to thrive in community sport, and strategies for creating welcoming, inclusive and safe sporting environments. Register for free here.
Until 9 August | ECU Gallery – Catch the last few days of ECU Gallery’s Grit exhibition; which brings together artists who use materiality to explore belonging, custodianship, colonial resistance, and relationships to place. On now at ECU City’s public art gallery.
Tania’s pick: 15 – 16 August | Ignite – The ultimate fusion of fitness and live local talent. Sweat it out to live vocals, DJ beats and didgeridoo sounds in a 50-minute electric workout at Liberty Theatre. Tickets available here.
20 – 30 August | 10 Nights in Port – Fremantle’s much-loved winter arts festival returns this August, bringing 10 nights of art, performance, storytelling and shared experiences to Walyalup / Fremantle. Jump into the program here.
4 – 18 September 2026 | Make/shift Festival – Two weeks of talks, workshops and experiences in Walyalup/Fremantle building towards better futures. Full program and tickets at makeshift.site
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Brisbane 2032: Opportunities Beyond Queensland |
9,853 whistles, 600 washing machines and 2,374 kettles are just some of the items on the procurement list for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, participants heard during a Committee for Capital Cities online briefing with Dominique Lamb, Director of Community Affairs at the Brisbane Organising Committee, early in July.
The Brisbane Games represent the most significant infrastructure investment in Australia's history. The Games are projected to contribute $17.61 billion to the national economy, support the creation of 122,900 full-time equivalent jobs, generate an $8.5 billion uplift in tourism and trade, and deliver $9.11 billion in social benefits across Australia.
Whether your organisation has operations in Queensland or elsewhere in the country, businesses of all sizes can access procurement opportunities connected to the Brisbane 2032 Games. Access procurement platform here. |
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Curtin's Space Ambitions Take Flight |
As we heard at June's Future Ready Forum with Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australia's first astronaut to fly under the Australian flag and the 2026 Australian of the Year, Western Australia is punching well above its weight when it comes to STEM careers.
Curtin University's Binar Space Program is a case in point. The program, which is preparing to launch three new miniature satellites this year, is 100% designed and built in Western Australia. It represents a cost-effective sovereign capability for Australian universities, industry and defence.
As The West Australian reports, "The Binar space program designs, develops, tests, builds and operates small satellites out of Curtin University's Space Science and Technology Centre. It aims to advance understanding of the solar system, lower the barriers to operating in space, and help develop Australia into a space industry leader."
Fun fact: Binar is the Noongar word for 'fireball' and aptly describes the cube satellites as they burn up on re-entry to Earth. Learn more about the student-designed and developed hardware here. |
| AIM WA Expands to Henderson |
This August, AIM WA is bringing a selection of its most popular and trusted courses to Henderson, making it easier for local leaders, managers and professionals to access high-quality learning closer to home. The expansion brings professional development opportunities closer to Western Australia's growing defence, maritime and industrial workforce. View the Henderson-based courses here.
From AI for Senior Leaders and Change Management to Project Analytics, AIM WA's courses are designed to equip participants with practical skills they can apply immediately in the workplace.
The Committee for Perth team experienced this firsthand after attending the Fundamentals of ChatGPT course at AIM WA's Floreat campus in July. The course provided valuable insights into the practical application, governance and strategic use of AI across our organisation.
With exceptional facilities, experienced facilitators and highly relevant course content, AIM WA continues to be a leading provider of professional development in Western Australia. Find what's on at AIM WA here. |
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Help Shape The Future Of Kings Park And Bold Park |
Whether you're showing visitors the view from Kings Park, catching up with a friend on the trails of Bold Park, or simply enjoying a moment of respite in nature, chances are these iconic green spaces have played a role in your Perth story.
Together, Kings Park and Bold Park are among Perth's greatest assets, showcasing Western Australia's unique flora and fauna while providing vital spaces for recreation, wellbeing and connection. By 2050, annual visitation is projected to exceed 10 million people, while the parks face growing pressures from climate change, biodiversity loss, water security challenges and ageing infrastructure.
To ensure these treasured landscapes thrive for generations to come, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) is developing a new 20-year master plan. Community feedback will help shape future decisions and ensure Kings Park, Perth's green heart, and Bold Park, its sanctuary by the sea, continue to meet the needs of a growing city.
Have your say and help shape the future of these iconic parks by contributing to the master planning process here. |
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Perth's Night-Time Economy Is Stronger Than Ever |
Worldwide, cities are increasingly planning for life after dark. New research by Ingenium, led by Dr Anna Edwards and commissioned by the Council of Capital City Lord Mayors, shows that Australia's night-time economy is stronger than ever, with the number of businesses, jobs and sales turnover at an all-time high.
The research also reveals shifting patterns of activity, with Thursday emerging as the new Friday in most Australian cities. Perth, Adelaide and Hobart remain the exceptions, where night-time activity still peaks on Fridays. Among 88 local government areas assessed for night-time economy establishments, the City of Stirling ranked 24th, the City of Perth 58th and the City of Joondalup 69th.
The City of Perth's 'Shaping Perth City Centre Towards 2036 and Beyond' strategy is embedding night-time and 24-hour economy priorities into planning, cultural programming, public space improvements and business support initiatives.
One example is the City of Perth's Public Lighting Framework, a citywide initiative that uses lighting to celebrate Perth's unique character, highlight key landmarks and create welcoming public spaces that support a thriving night-time economy. |
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Our CEO, Tania Hudson, is known to talk about her dogs almost as much as championing Perth's ambition. So, we're leaning in.
We're putting together a 'Pets of Perth Calendar 2027' and want your four or two-legged family members in it. Send us your best shot for a chance to feature in this year's publication. Bonus points for photos that also show off Perth’s best angles!
📸 Submit your photo by 1 November to enquiries@committeeforperth.com.au
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Our member community is passionate about making Perth one of the world’s most liveable cities. Every month, we celebrate members who are helping make that vision a reality. Have news to share? Email us.
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Welcome Paywise!
We’re delighted to welcome Paywise as the newest Gold member of Committee for Perth.
Headquartered in Perth, Paywise is one of Australia's leading salary packaging and novated leasing providers, supporting tens of thousands of employees across government, health, education, not-for-profit and private sector organisations. With more than 300 employees, the proudly Western Australian business is known for its personalised service, innovative employee benefits and commitment to improving financial wellbeing. |
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Through its salary packaging, novated leasing and employee benefits programs, Paywise helps organisations attract and retain talent while delivering better financial outcomes for employees.
"I am joining Committee for Perth because I care deeply about the future of Perth and the success of the businesses, people and communities that make our city such a great place to live and work," says Frank Agostino, CEO of Paywise.
"I look forward to contributing to meaningful conversations about Perth's future and supporting initiatives that help make Perth a stronger, more prosperous and more globally recognised city for future generations."
Welcome to the Committee for Perth member network, Paywise. We look forward to working together to help shape Perth's future. |
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The Perth Mint Creates World's Largest Bar Of Gold
The Perth Mint has added another milestone to its remarkable history, officially earning a Guinness World Records title for the world's largest gold bar.
Weighing an extraordinary 521.2 kilograms and crafted from 99.999% pure Australian Origin Gold™, the record-breaking bar surpassed the previous record by more than 200 kilograms. |
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The achievement showcases Western Australia's world-leading expertise in gold refining, with more than 35 specialists contributing to the project. It also highlights the innovation, precision and skilled workforce that continue to position WA as a global leader in the precious metals industry. The record-breaking gold bar will go on public display as part of The Perth Mint Gold Tour from 21 September, giving visitors the chance to see this extraordinary feat of engineering and craftsmanship up close. |
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| WACA Completion Time-lapse
The WACA Ground redevelopment, a landmark $189 million project funded through the broader Perth City Deal, is now complete and open for the entire community to enjoy. The remarkable five-year transformation of WACA, a Bronze Committee for Perth member, has been captured in a time-lapse video – watch it here. Its next chapter brings together sport, community, culture and premium experiences, creating a vibrant destination for all Western Australians.
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Member Spotlight Experience: Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre |
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Last month, Committee for Perth team and members headed to Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre as part of the Member Spotlight Experience series, for a compelling look at how supercomputers make the impossible, possible. It was a fascinating glimpse under the hood of one of only two national high-performance computing facilities in the country. The morning sparked plenty of conversation about the bigger questions facing WA and Australia, including capability, investment, collaboration, and how we keep pace with what's coming next.
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Liz Westcott Joins Us For Urban Scrawl's 'On The Ground Intel' |
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“[In 2050] I’d love to see Perth retain its relaxed charm and great quality of life, while becoming a centre of excellence for the industries of the future,” says Liz Westcott, CEO and Managing Director at Woodside Energy.
In the latest 'On The Ground Intel' feature for our member-exclusive newsletter 'Urban Scrawl', Liz shares her perspective on Perth's global competitiveness, the future of STEM leadership, and why creating opportunities for women will be essential to WA's next chapter. She also reflects on the importance of community, lifelong learning and the qualities that will define tomorrow’s leaders.
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| We are pleased to welcome Zest as a new Bronze Member of Committee for Perth.
Zest is a Perth-based people, technology and transformation consultancy helping organisations design work for the future, with expertise spanning workforce strategy, organisational design, HR technology, leadership capability and complex people transformation.
Kat Thompson, CEO of Zest, said: “I’m excited to be part of a network that believes great cities are built through ambitious leadership, meaningful partnerships and a willingness to challenge the status quo.” |
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT EXPERIENCE: PERTH AIRPORT - FROM GRASS RUNWAY TO GLOBAL GATEWAY Perth Airport Office Friday, 14 August / 7.00am to 9.30am
Member-only event / Waitlist
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| YEAR 12 NETWORKING BREAKFAST Centre for Performing Arts, All Saints’ College Friday, 21 August / 7.00am to 9.30am
Member-only event / Register via Humanitix |
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OPPOSITION'S ADDRESS 2026 WITH BASIL ZEMPILAS MLA QV1 Tuesday, 25 August / 7.30am to 9.00am Member-only event / Enquire Now
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THE CHAIR'S 20 WITH LINDA DAWSON Lamont’s Bishops House Tuesday, 8 September / 12.00pm to 2.00pm
Member-only event / Waitlist
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EXECUTIVE WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP FORUM WITH EMILY ROPER PSM HopgoodGanim Lawyers Thursday, 17 September / 5.00pm to 7.00pm Member-only event / Enquire Now
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With thanks to all our members for their ongoing contribution to promoting innovation and creativity to deliver a brighter future for Perth. View all of our members. |
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City of Canning
City of Perth FORM Building a State of Creativity Hall & Prior
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer |
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Keystart Landgate Lester Blades
North Metropolitan TAFE |
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| Perth Airport RAAFA
The Perth Mint Water Corporation |
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Committee for Perth conducts its work on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar. We recognise their peoples' ongoing connection to land, culture and community and in doing so, pay our respects to Elders past and present. |
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