The State Government will enter into exclusive negotiations with Stadium Australia Operations to become operator of the Perth Stadium, following a three-month evaluation period and subsequent approval by State Cabinet.

Premier Colin Barnett said Stadium Australia Operations' proposal offered the best value for money and an operating approach which put fans first.

"The 60,000 seat Perth Stadium will be a world-class venue and it is fitting that a world-class operator is appointed," he said.

The Premier thanked all four short-listed respondents for their detailed submissions.

"Stadium Australia Operations currently operates Stadium Australia (ANZ Stadium) in Sydney, which was built for the 2000 Olympic Games. The 83,500 seat venue has already attracted more than 23.5 million fans to a variety of events, including AFL, rugby union and English Premier League games, plus acts such as AC/DC, the Foo Fighters and Taylor Swift," he said.

"The State looks forward to working with Stadium Australia Operations in the coming weeks to finalise matters ahead of signing the contract."

The operator will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the stadium and sports precinct, including catering, securing event content, event management and ticketing.

Stadium structure soars to new heights

The Premier said the Government would ensure that the West Australian Football Commission (WAFC) would have a stream of revenue to continue to manage, support and grow local football at the WAFL and community level.

Sport and Recreation Minister Mia Davies said AEG Ogden was also approved as reserve respondent, in the event the State Government could not conclude negotiations with Stadium Australia Operations.

"This decision is the result of 12 months of work since the government first called for Expressions of Interest," she said.

"A detailed brief was prepared which was responded to by the shortlisted applicants over almost three months, culminating in a three-month review and evaluation by a panel of senior government officials – supported by a range of independent technical advisors.

"Ultimately the team determined that Stadium Australia Operations' bid represented the best value for money. A key feature of the bid was the depth and breadth of proposed events to be held at Perth Stadium and the strategies to secure them."

Fact file

  • Shortlisted respondents (in alphabetical order): AEG Ogden, Nationwide Venue Management, Perth Stadium Management and Stadium Australia Operations
  • Criteria for assessment of proposals included the respondents' delivery approach, operational performance, communication with users and financial benefit to WA.