AUSTRALIA | Hotels and accommodation businesses are expected to be a key part of the Western Australian Government’s Major Events Strategy.
The Western Australian Government’s Major Events Strategy is paying dividends, with hotel occupancy rates surging around recent international sporting and entertainment events, according to data commissioned by the Australian Hotels Association.
Perth’s hotels have been operating near full capacity during a series of world-class events that have attracted thousands of visitors to the city.
“The results demonstrate how major events drive tangible economic outcomes for hotels, hospitality businesses and the broader tourism sector,” said Australian Hotels Association (WA) Chief Executive Officer Bradley Woods.
“This is exactly the type of outcome that Western Australia’s Major Events Strategy was designed to achieve.”
During UFC Fight Night: Ulberg vs. Reyes on 27 September, hotel occupancy reached 91.8 percent, followed by a remarkable 94.4 percent during the Bledisloe Cup on 4 October. The influx continued with WWE’s Perth residency, where occupancy averaged 90.1 percent for SmackDown, 91.5 percent for Crown Jewel, 93.7 percent for Monday Night RAW and remained strong across surrounding nights.
“When our stadiums, arenas and venues host world-class events, the impact flows through hotels, bars, restaurants, and small businesses across the city and out into the regions,” said Woods.
“These events don’t just fill rooms on the night; they extend stays, boost mid-week trade and showcase Perth and Western Australia to global audiences.”
Woods said the data reveal visitors are staying longer, with hotel occupancy on days either side of major events remaining in the 90 percent range, highlighting the lasting value of event tourism.
“This is a strong return on investment for the State Government’s commitment to securing premium sporting and entertainment events,” he said.
Looking ahead, the positive trend is set to continue. With the Ashes Test in Perth just a month away, forward bookings already show almost 90 per cent occupancy, reflecting continued demand from interstate and international visitors.
“Western Australia is now firmly established as a premier destination for major events,” Woods said.
“These figures confirm that our tourism and hospitality sectors are reaping the benefits.”
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