Overview
The Division of Perth is a federal electoral division in the state of Western Australia. It was established as one of the original 75 divisions for the first Australian federal election in 1901 and takes its name from the city of Perth, the state capital. The electorate covers inner metropolitan areas and adjacent suburbs of the capital city, combining residential, commercial and light industrial precincts.
Geography and suburbs
Perth is predominantly an inner-urban seat. Its boundaries have varied over time, but it generally includes neighbourhoods on the northern and eastern sides of the central business district and suburbs along the Swan River corridor. The division contains a mix of established inner-city suburbs, riverfront areas and medium-density housing.
- Ashfield
- Bassendean
- Bayswater
- Bedford
- Beechboro
- East Perth
- Eden Hill
- Embleton
- Highgate
- Inglewood
- Kiara
- Lockridge
- Maylands
- Morley
- Mount Lawley
- Noranda
- Northbridge
- Parts of Coolbinia, Dianella, Menora, North Perth, Perth City, West Perth and Yokine
History and development
The division has existed continuously since federation and its geographic limits have been altered periodically through redistributions conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission. These adjustments reflect population growth, urban development and the need to maintain elector numbers that are roughly equal across districts. Over more than a century the seat has shifted in size and composition as Perth's suburban footprint expanded.
Political character and significance
As an inner metropolitan electorate, Perth has a diverse population that includes long-term residents, younger professionals, students and a mix of cultural communities. This demographic variety influences local priorities such as public transport, urban renewal, housing affordability and services. The seat is closely watched during federal elections because its urban voter mix can reflect broader political trends in the state capital.
Administration and representation
The boundaries and names of federal divisions are managed by the Australian Electoral Commission; details about enrolment, polling places and redistributions are published officially. The Division of Perth sends one member to the House of Representatives, as do all Australian federal divisions, and its electoral outcomes contribute to the composition of the national parliament and the formation of government. For general information on the role and rules that govern divisions, see the AEC’s resources on electoral divisions.