About Perth

Welcome to the land down under!

Perth, known as Boorloo in the language of the Whadjuk Noongar people, is the capital of Western Australia and one of the world’s most isolated major cities. Located between the Swan River (Derbarl Yerrigan) and the Indian Ocean, Perth combines a modern city centre with beaches, parklands, cafés and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle.

With a population of just over two million people spread across a large metropolitan area, Perth is spacious, clean and easy to navigate. Visitors often notice the city’s blue skies, open space and strong connection to the river and coastline.

November is late spring in Western Australia, with warm sunny days, low humidity and cool mornings. Outdoor dining, walking and riverside activities are common throughout the city at this time of year.

Kings Park and the Swan River

One of Perth’s defining landmarks is Kings Park and Botanic Garden, one of the world’s largest inner-city parks. The park overlooks the Swan River and Perth skyline and contains extensive areas of native Western Australian bushland, walking trails and botanical gardens.

The Swan River itself forms the centrepiece of the city and is popular for walking, cycling, sailing, kayaking and riverside cafés. Many conference delegates staying near UWA will be within walking distance of Matilda Bay and the foreshore paths.

Beaches and Outdoor Lifestyle

Perth is famous for its coastline and beaches. Cottesloe Beach, City Beach and Scarborough Beach are all easily accessible from the conference venue and city centre.

The Mediterranean climate means outdoor activities are part of everyday life for much of the year. Early morning running, cycling, swimming and café culture are particularly common.

Visitors should be aware that the Australian sun can be extremely strong even on mild days. Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats are strongly recommended.

Fremantle and Rottnest Island

The nearby port city of Fremantle (Walyalup) is known for its historic buildings, cafés, markets and maritime history. Fremantle is easily reached by train from Perth.

Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), located offshore from Perth, is one of Western Australia’s best-known destinations and home of the quokka, a small marsupial found naturally only in a few parts of the state.

Both locations are popular day trips for conference visitors.

Western Australia

Western Australia is the largest Australian state, covering roughly one-third of the continent (2,527,013 km2). The state includes deserts, forests, coral reefs, remote coastlines and some of the oldest exposed rocks on Earth.

Distances in Western Australia can be enormous. Although Perth itself is modern and well connected, many famous natural attractions are located hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away.

Additional visitor information:

Arriving in Perth

Perth Airport is well connected to Perth’s CBD, the University of Western Australia (UWA), and surrounding suburbs by train, bus, taxi and rideshare services.

Practical information

Info for ADASS XXXVI Conference visitors