Perth

Facts
With a population of nearly 1.5 million, Perth is the fourth most populated urban area in Australia. It is also the fastest growing major City in Australia, with an estimate growth rate of 2.1% (2006). This growth is primarily due to the booming Western Australian economy which is largely driven by demand for the regions mining resources from China and other Asian countries.

Perth’s nearest neighbouring City with a population of over 1 million is Adelaide, the capital of South Australia.

Lifestyle
Perth is renowned for it’s excellent beaches and relaxed outdoor lifestyle.  The locals enjoy a vast array of activities including swimming, surfing,  camping, canoeing, bushwalking and sailing. Another popular local attraction is Rottnest Island or “Rotto” as the locals call it.  Apart from being the indigenous home of the Quakka, the Island is only a 40 minute ferry ride from Perth and is a haven for divers, surfers and day-trippers; however, Rottnest is also a very popular holiday destination

Perth has a thriving social culture which is fuelled by a vibrant range of restaurants, cafes, shopping, nightlife and entertainment venues.  The locals are also keen supporters of AFL, rugby union, soccer and basketball to name a few.  

Western Australia is blessed with some of the best wine regions in Australia.  Margaret River is well-known around the world for its high quality wines, however, the Swan Valley, once a well kept secret, now boasts a growing number of outstanding restaurants and vineyards all within 30 minutes drive from Perth.  The Swan Valley also plays hosts to a range of entertainment and festivities throughout the year including the very popular “Spring in the Valley” food and wine weekend, “Shiraz & Seafood long lunch weekend” plus a range of outdoor concerts at various vineyards.

Perth enjoys a wonderful temperate climate with average temperatures ranging between 17 degrees in the winter months through to high 30’s in the height of summer.  Due to the low rainfall in the summer months, Perth is fortunate to be able to host a variety of outdoor activities and entertainment, such as, ballet under the stars, concerts in Kings Park and the Zoo plus a variety of outdoor cinema venues.     

The Legal Market
A number of leading mining, energy and resource companies are headquartered in Perth and have large in-house legal teams.  In addition, to this there are also a large number small and medium sized companies, again, mostly mining, energy and resource companies (listed and unlisted), which offer a stimulating and diverse in-house alternative.  The salaries for in-house roles in WA are along the same lines as the other States. 

To discuss opportunities, or for more general advice about the Perth legal market, please contact one of Perth consultants, or email perth@hughescastell.com