International Engagement

The City of Perth is committed to being an active member of the international community and maintains a variety of international relationships, including with our Sister and Friendship Cities, bilateral business councils and chambers, and the Consular Corps.

With established government and business contacts in a variety of cities, the City of Perth seeks to facilitate and act as a gateway to international markets and provide trade, investment, and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

The City regularly hosts delegates from overseas governments, associations and businesses. An essential part of this activity is the establishment or strengthening of international relationships for the City and local stakeholders across a variety of sectors.

In fostering these international networks, these relationships raise the profile of Perth on a global scale, attract investment, and promote international trade and people-to-people links.

Our Zone

Perth’s location and proximity to key markets in Africa, the Middle East, the UK, Europe and Asia allows its exports, services and intellectual talent to reach these destinations efficiently.

11Sister and Friendship City relationships around the world
29countries have official government representation in Perth
32.2%ASX-listed companies have Perth headquarters
60%of the world’s population shares daylight with Perth

Our Sister Cities

The City of Perth has a number of formal international relationships that have been formed over the years – the first City’s first Sister City relationship was established with the City of Kagoshima in Japan in 1974.

Since then, the City has developed other Sister City and Charter of Mutual Friendship relationships, with Perth now having eleven Sister City relationships:

Chengdu, China, established 2010
Perth, Scotland, established 2006
Seocho City, Republic of Korea, established 2008
Taipei, Taiwan, established 1999
Nanjing, China, established 1998
Vasto, Italy, established 1989
San Diego, California, established 1987
Houston, Texas, established 1984
Megisti, Greece, established 1984
Rhodes, Greece, established 1984
Kagoshima, Japan, established 1974

Sister City agreements encourage people-to-people interaction by providing citizens with the opportunity to participate in cultural, educational, trade and knowledge sharing exchange programs across cities.

More recently, our Sister City relationships have created opportunities to support economic growth across a variety of business and industry sectors. With established government and business contacts in a variety of cities, the Sister City program acts as a gateway to new markets providing trade, investment and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

Through our Sister City program, many City and Perth-based organisations have been able to develop international economic partnerships that in turn benefit the City, our ratepayers and the broader Perth and Western Australian community.

Useful Links

Important Documents

Investment Profile4.8 MB | PDF Document
City of Perth Sister Cities1.67 MB | PDF Document

Shenzhen Nanshan Delegation Courtesy Call, May 2024
On 30 May, the City hosted a senior Shenzhen business delegation, led by Simon Wu, President of the Australia China Friendship Society of Western Australia. The delegation met with the Lord Mayor and CEO for a courtesy call to explore engagement opportunities and shared interests between the two cities. Discussions centred on potential collaborations across various sectors.
Courtesy Call with Chairman of Japan Australia Business Co-operation Committee (JABCC) and Tokyo delegation, May 2024
On 2 May, the City warmly welcomed Mr Michiaki Hirose, Chairman of Japan-Australia Business Co-operation Committee, accompanied by senior representatives from the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Tokyo Gas, for a courtesy call with the Lord Mayor. Discussions revolved around the enduring relationship between Perth and a number of Japanese cities, emphasising potential collaboration opportunities. The meeting held special significance as 2024 commemorates the 50th anniversary of Perth and Kagoshima's Sister City relationship.
Europe Day, May 2024
On 9 May, the City of Perth welcomed Consuls and Honorary Consuls of European states to celebrate Europe Day. The Lord Mayor and Greek Consul-General Georgia Karasiotou emphasised that regardless of differences, peaceful coexistence and cooperation are the cornerstones of a thriving world. The City of Perth acknowledged EU Day with a flag-raising ceremony at Council House.
Perth-Denpasar Connections at International Web3 Conference, March 2024
With the help of WAWEB3 and Phil Turtle, Chairman ABCWA, the City of Perth was able to further its Memorandum of Understanding with Denpasar City Government in the areas of tech and creative industries, at the International Web3 Conference held across 21 - 22 March. Through the MOU project the City was able to connect the Bali Blockchain Centre and Bali-based Illustrator MONEZ with the Perth-based Web3 community. Included in the event was the signing of a MOU between not-for-profit industry body, WAWEB3 and the Bali Blockchain Centre. In cooperation with the City of Denpasar, the seminar was live streamed in Denpasar, to an audience of over 136 people.
Friendship Force of Greater Sendai Courtesy Call, March 2024
On 20 March, the Deputy Lord Mayor warmly welcomed the Friendship Force of Perth and a visiting international delegation from Greater Sendai, Japan, for a courtesy call. The delegation spent a delightful week in Perth with their hosts, immersing themselves in the City's vibrant culture. Their itinerary included iconic landmarks such as Optus Stadium, Matagarup Bridge, Kings Park and the Bell Tower, creating lasting memories. The Friendship Force is a non-profit international cultural exchange program with over 360 clubs worldwide. The Friendship Force of Perth plays an important role in fostering people-to-people links and cross-cultural understandings, as well as promoting Perth on a global stage.
UWA Student Awardees of the Australia Awards Scholarship reception, February 2024
On 22 February, the City of Perth, in partnership with the Asia Business Council of WA, hosted a reception for Australia Awards Scholarship recipients attending the University of Western Australia. These talented individuals, representing 23 different countries, are pursuing their studies thanks to the support of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Australia Awards Scholarship program. These students enrich our vibrant and diverse student community in Perth. We were thrilled to hear about the positive experiences these students have already had in Perth, and we look forward to witnessing the incredible contributions they'll make back home after completing their scholarships.
Perth and Singapore: Deepening Ties in Tech and Innovation, December 2023
On 7 December, the City, partnered with Asialink Business and West Tech Fest, hosted the Perth and Singapore: Deepening Ties in Tech and Innovation event. This gathering brought together key stakeholders, industry experts, and innovative minds to explore the exciting collaborative opportunities between Perth and Singapore's thriving tech ecosystems. A panel of industry leaders engaged in insightful discussions offering practical guidance for Perth tech businesses seeking to establish and expand their presence in the Singaporean market.
City of Perth welcomes Minami Academy students, November 2023
On 21 November, the City of Perth held a reception to welcome a group of students from Minami Academy in Kagoshima, Japan. The students, led by Mr Toru Minami, were in Perth for an English language study program at Perth International College of English (PICE). Mr Minami has been bringing students to Perth for over 35 years, and it is estimated that nearly 1,000 Kagoshima students have visited Perth through his program. During the reception, the students performed a traditional Japanese cultural performance and sang a beautiful rendition of the Australian national anthem.
Advancing Energy Collaboration between Perth and Hitachi City, November 2023
On 7 November, the City of Perth hosted a roundtable discussion between senior representatives from Hitachi City, Japan, and local energy tech companies to explore the energy transition journey and potential economic partnerships between the two cities. This insightful discussion focused on the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a low-carbon economy, with a particular emphasis on the role of SMEs in driving innovation and creating sustainable solutions. Both Perth and Hitachi City are committed to leading the way in energy sustainability, and this roundtable provided a valuable platform for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and identifying potential partnerships.
Sichuan Provincial Chamber of Commerce, October 2023
On 19 October, the City of Perth hosted a delegation from the Sichuan Provincial Chamber of Commerce. The Economic Development Unit provided a presentation for the delegates focusing on investment opportunities in Perth and the City’s Sister City relationship with Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan Province. The delegates were also met by the Lord Mayor for a courtesy call and further discussions on the strong relationships between Perth and Chengdu, and Western Australia and Sichuan Province.
WECP Pre-program Tour, October 2023
The City was pleased to lead a pre-conference tour for delegates from Esbjerg, Denmark and Groningen, Netherlands attending the WECP 2023 AGM. The City provided presentations on key economic development and sustainability initiatives in action, followed by a tour that included the Cathedral Square Precinct, London Court and Piccadilly Arcade, the ECU and Yagan Square construction works, and the Perth Cultural Centre and WA Museum Boola Bardip. The delegation also enjoyed a briefing at the UWA Oceans Institute before concluding the tour with a visit to Moort-ak Waadiny (Wellington Square), and a chance to see the view from Matagarup Bridge and OPTUS Stadium.
Nanjing Deputy Mayor Delegation, October 2023
On 9 October, the City hosted a delegation from Nanjing, one of the City of Perth’s Sister Cities, led by Deputy Mayor Li. The delegation included representatives from Nanjing’s Urban Development and Forestry and Parks Bureau, as well as the Foreign Affairs Office. The visit included a tour of Elizabeth Quay and Kings Park, and Roundtable Lunch at Council House with local stakeholders. The delegation’s visit provided an opportunity to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Sister City relationship and discuss areas of collaboration across the delegates represented sectors.
Boardroom Breakfast with UK Minister of State (Indo-Pacific), September 2023
On 27 September, the City with the Australian British Chamber of Commerce (ABCC), hosted a Boardroom Breakfast for the Rt Hon Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP, UK Minister of State (Indo-Pacific). The visit highlighted the strong cultural and economic ties between Perth and the UK, particularly in the areas of natural resources, critical minerals, energy transition and strategic defence.
Visit from Nanjing Vocational College of Finance and Economics, August 2023
On 29 August, the City hosted a delegation from the Nanjing Vocational College of Finance and Economics with the support of the West Australian Institute of Further Studies (WAIFS). The visit included a walking tour of Elizabeth Quay and surrounding areas and discussions on the Perth-Nanjing Sister City relationship (celebrating its 25th anniversary) and attracting international students to the City. The Nanjing delegation noted distinct similarities between the two cities, which included strong economies and picturesque landscapes, comparing Nanjing's location on the Yangtze River to Perth's location on the Swan River.
Australia India Address, August 2023
On 23 August, the City of Perth hosted an event in collaboration with the Australia India Business Council WA (AIBC): Australia India Address – Building WA-India Engagement. The Lord Mayor provided welcome remarks followed by the Hon Stephen Dawson MLC, the Consul-General of India, and a panel session featuring representatives from Adarsh Australia, Perdaman Global Services, and Space Angel. The event coincided with the historic moon landing by India’s Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft, which was livestreamed, and Council House was lit up in the colours of the Indian flag to commemorate the monumental occasion.
Knowledge sharing with Sabah delegation on Smart Cities, August 2023
On 15 August, the City hosted a delegation from Sabah, Malaysia and the Shire of Murray for presentations on Economic Development and Smart Cities. The City of Perth’s Smart Cities Program is nationally recognised and has attracted several international stakeholders for knowledge sharing opportunities. Malaysia is also a key market for Western Australia across a variety of sectors, including trade, tourism and international education.
Friendship Force of Japan Courtesy Call, August 2023
On 10 August, the City of Perth hosted a courtesy call for the Friendship Force of Perth and the visiting International Club from Japan. The Lord Mayor is the Club Patron of the Friendship Force of Perth, a non-profit, international cultural exchange program with over 360 clubs worldwide. The Friendship Force of Perth plays an important role in fostering people-to-people links and cross-cultural understandings as well as promoting Perth on a global stage.
Kagoshima Youth Wings, August 2023
On 1 August, the City of Perth hosted a Welcome Reception at Council House for high school students from Kagoshima, Japan and their Mater Dei College hosts as part of the Kagoshima Youth Wings program.

During the Reception, the Lord Mayor remarked on the importance of educational and cultural exchanges in fostering cross-cultural understandings and people-to-people links. The highlight of the Reception was the Ohara-bushi, a traditional cultural performance, performed by the Kagoshima students.

Kagoshima is the City of Perth’s oldest Sister City relationship, having been formalised in 1974. Next year, the two cities will celebrate 50 years of friendship and cooperation.
Gapyeong Country delegation, July 2023
On 28 July, the Lord Mayor hosted a courtesy call for a Gapyeong County, South Korea delegation led by the Gapyeong County Vice Mayor, Mr Byounggil Choi. The delegation also included Chairman and Co-Chair, Mr Bill Munro and Mr Jin Kil Lee of the Perth Korean War Memorial Committee, following the unveiling of the Perth Korean War Memorial at Kings Park.
Nanjing Education Delegation, June 2023
On 26 – 27 June, the City of Perth was honoured to receive delegates from Nanjing, China, one of the City’s Sister Cities which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The 6 delegates included representatives from the Nanjing Municipal Education, Foreign Affairs Office, the Jianye and Jiangning District Education Bureau, and Jinling Middle School. The purpose of the visit was to engage with local education stakeholders in Perth on a variety of activities and programs that promote people-to-people links, cross-cultural understandings, visitation, and international student exchanges between Perth and Nanjing.
Knowledge exchange with Seocho-gu, May 2023
The City of Perth hosted five officers from Seocho-gu, South Korea, one of the City’s Friendship Cities. The officers attended a courtesy call with the Lord Mayor, which was then followed by a series of presentations on the City of Perth’s strategies and policies surrounding environmental sustainability, energy and water resilience, parks and gardens, and e-scooters.
Vietnamese National Startup Support Centre visits Perth, May 2023
The Economic Development Unit had the opportunity to meet with delegates from the National Startup Support Centre (NSSC) from Vietnam. The NSSC is an organisation under Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Innovation and seeks to support creative startups and development of the ecosystem. The City welcomed the delegates to Council House to learn more about the organisation and their interest in engaging the startup and innovation sector in Australia.
International Hydrogen Delegation visits Perth, April 2023
The City of Perth was able to showcase our state's industry-leading knowledge in the hydrogen energy space by hosting a Welcome Reception for the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association of Singapore (HFCAS) in collaboration with the WA-Singapore Business Council at Council House.
Indonesian delegation seeks Perth's lessons for new capital, Nusantara, April 2023
The City of Perth welcomed the Indonesian Ambassador, senior members of the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), the Nusantara National Capital Authority, and the Consul-General of The Republic of Indonesia. The delegation drew upon elements of Perth’s evolution and current planning systems, which included knowledge sharing on the City’s urban and infrastructure planning and sustainability strategies.
Winning WECP Conference bid for November 2023
The City of Perth successfully won the bid to host the World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP) Annual General Meeting (AGM) in November 2023. The conference will showcase Perth's leadership in energy transition and sustainability and connect local and international stakeholders across the sector.
West Tech Fest x Asialink Business: Pre-Seed to Series Funding, December 2022
The City hosted an event in collaboration with Asialink Business and West Tech Fest: Pre Seed to Series Funding: Leveraging Opportunities in ASEAN. As part of West Tech Fest’s program, the event explored key growth areas in startups and innovation, pathways to seek funding, in-region experiences, and broader trends within ASEAN.
Welcome Reception for Minami Academy Students, November 2022
Mr Toru Minami from the Minami Academy IBS Foreign Language School has been bringing students from Kagoshima, Japan to Perth for over 30 years. Whilst in Perth, the students study English at Perth International College of English and stay with local host families. As part of the program, the City hosted the students for a Welcome Reception at Council House.
Greek Presidential Guard Flag Raising and Welcome Reception, November 2022
The City hosted an event in collaboration with the Consulate of Greece to commemorate the inaugural visit to Perth of a Greek Presidential Guard Unit on the occasion of Greece’s National ‘Oxi’ Day. The event featured a procession by the Greek Presidential Guard unit along St Georges Terrace followed by a Flag Raising Ceremony and Reception at Council House.
Perth-Chengdu Virtual Mayor’s Meeting, November 2022
2022 marked the 10th anniversary of our Sister City relationship with Chengdu, China. Recognising the occasion, the Lord Mayor, CEO, General Manager of PEDA and Consul-General of China met virtually with the Vice Mayor of Chengdu, Director of the Chengdu Foreign Affairs Office and Australian Consul-General in Chengdu. During discussions, the City was presented a unique anniversary gift, a painted panda featuring iconic imagery from both cities. The decade has seen many initiatives take place, including the popular Picture Yourself in Perth Program and Chengdu International Sister Cities Youth Music Festival.
Perth-Chengdu 10th Anniversary Lighting Ceremony and Reception, September 2022
For the 10th anniversary of the City of Perth's Sister City relationship with Chengdu, China, Council House and other notable assets throughout Perth were lit up to commemorate the milestone. The City also hosted a Reception for members of the Chengdu/China-Australia expat, business, government, cultural, and academic community, shining a light on the many achievements in the Perth-Chengdu relationship over the past decade.
B20 Delegation Business Lunch and Forum, August 2022
The City hosted a business forum for Indonesian representatives in collaboration with the Consulate General of The Republic of Indonesia, Australia Indonesia Business Council, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA. The forum included leading businesses and institutions in the Western Australian-Indonesia relationship and discussions on the upcoming Business 20 (B20) Indonesia Summit.