Officially opened in 2018, Optus Stadium is one of the newest stadiums in Australia.
It is also one of the most impressive, especially under lights, at night, when it is at full capacity and the crowd is a swirl of colour and noise.
Indeed, the stadium is so impressive, it was awarded the title of the ‘Most Beautiful Stadium in the World’ at the prestigious Prix Versailles International Architecture Awards in 2019. Thanks to its innovative design and stunning aesthetic.
If you have been to Optus Stadium, or watched a live AFL or cricket match on TV you will have no doubt been impressed by what you saw. At least off the pitch if your team didn’t win.
But how much do you know about the stadium?
As part of our review of professional sporting venues in Australia, we’ll take a closer look at Optus Stadium in Perth, to provide you with more insight into it.
About the Stadium
Optus Stadium is a world-class multi-purpose venue located in Perth in Western Australia. It was opened in January 2018, replacing the Subiaco Oval and boasts a seating capacity of 65,000. This makes it the third biggest stadium in Australia behind the MCG and Stadium Australia.
The stadium is situated on the banks of the Swan River and is surrounded by parklands. Its impressive design was based on the Western Australian landscape, with its distinctive roof structure resembling the state’s iconic wildflowers.
Constructed at a cost of $820.7 million, the venue features avant-garde facilities, including a roof that can be fully opened or closed in just 12 minutes, as well as a world-class sound system and LED lighting system. Its grass area also has the capacity to be oval-shaped or rectangle-shaped as required.
Since its opening, Optus Stadium has hosted a range of major sporting events and concerts that have featured some of the world’s biggest artists.
One of the most notable events held at Optus Stadium was the 2019 NRL State of Origin game, which saw the New South Wales Blues take on the Queensland Maroons in front of a capacity crowd.
What Sports Are Played at the Gabba?
Optus Stadium is home to the West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers, two of the AFL teams based in Perth. Both teams have a fanatical supporter base and regularly draw large crowds to their home games at Optus Stadium.
In addition to AFL matches, Optus Stadium also hosts cricket matches, including international Test
matches, One Day Internationals, and Twenty20 matches. The venue hosted its first cricket match in December 2017, (just a few weeks before its official opening), and is now the home of Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield and the Perth Scorchers, in the Big Bash League. The Australia men’s cricket team also play a test match here every year, as well as T20s and one day internationals.
Soccer matches are also played at Optus Stadium, with the venue hosting the A-League Grand Final in 2019, as well as friendlies between the Perth Glory and various English Premier League teams. These include Manchester United, Leeds United, Crystal Palace and Aston Villa.
Other sports to be played at the ground include Rugby Union and Rugby League. With both the Bledisloe Cup and the State of Origin being hosted there in recent years.
Other Events
Optus Stadium in Perth has hosted several major concerts since its opening in 2018, featuring some of the biggest names in the music industry.
One of the most notable gigs held at the venue was Ed Sheeran’s Divide World Tour in March 2018, which saw the English singer-songwriter perform in front of a then-record-breaking crowd of over 60,000 people. The concert was the first ever held at Optus Stadium, and the success of the event set the stage for many more to follow.
In February 2020, Taylor Swift brought her Lover Fest tour to Optus Stadium, performing to a crowd of over 50,000 fans. The concert was the only Australian stop on the tour and featured a spectacular stage show with elaborate costumes and choreography.
Other notable concerts held at Optus Stadium include those by rock legends Metallica in October 2019, and iconic British band Queen and Adam Lambert in February 2020.
In 2021, the stadium also hosted a special concert event called State of the Art, which featured performances by some of Western Australia’s best and up-and-coming musicians and performers.
Facilities
Optus Stadium boasts a wide range of world-class facilities designed to provide visitors with the ultimate sports and entertainment experience. From state-of-the-art seating to cutting-edge technology, the venue is equipped with everything a sports fan or concert lover would need to make events memorable and enjoyable.
One of the key features of the stadium is its seating capacity, which can accommodate up to 65,000 spectators for rectangle field sports. The seats are arranged in a bowl-like configuration, providing excellent views of the playing field from all angles. They also include premium areas such as private boxes, corporate suites, and VIP lounges, which offer a luxurious experience for those who want to enjoy events in style.
Another impressive facility at the stadium is its retractable roof, which can be closed in just 12 minutes. This allows events to be held in any weather conditions, making it an all-season venue. It is also
equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a massive video screen, which is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. The screen measures 31 metres high and 60 metres wide and provides an immersive experience for fans. It is one of 1000 TV screens throughout the stadium.
In addition, the venue is accessible for people with disabilities, with designated seating areas, accessible entrances and facilities such as elevators and accessible restrooms. The stadium also has ample parking space and 600 bike racks, as well as 748 male bathrooms and 781 female bathrooms.
How to get to the stadium
Depending on your location, there are several ways to get to Optus Stadium in Perth.
If you are coming from the Perth CBD, one of the easiest ways to get to the stadium is by public transportation. Transperth operates a dedicated stadium station on the Armadale and Thornlie lines, which stops at the stadium’s doorstep. Additional services are also available during major events, including special event buses and trains.
If you prefer to drive to Optus Stadium there are several parking options available. These include onsite parking and paid parking at nearby locations. However, parking can be limited during major events, so it’s recommended you book in advance.
Another option is to take advantage of the stadium’s bicycle and pedestrian access. The Matagarup Bridge, spans the Swan River and provides a scenic walking and cycling route to the stadium from the city centre. The stadium also offers secure bicycle storage facilities for those who choose to cycle to the venue.
Finally, for those who prefer a more unique experience, the stadium can be accessed by boat via the Swan River. The nearby jetty provides a convenient drop-off and pick-up point for water taxis and other watercraft.
Food in ground
With over 70 food venues and vendors dotted around its premises, there is plenty of choice at Optus Stadium when it comes to getting something to eat.
As well as the traditional pub fare of burgers, pies, hot dogs and hot chips, you can also treat yourself to more upscale options like slow-cooked beef short rib teriyaki, chicken tikka masala, sushi and fish tacos.
Some of these options are available from food trucks, while others are on the menu at the various member’s lounges and eateries that are located on-site.
In addition to these dining options, there are several bars throughout the stadium that serve up a range of hot and cold beverages.
Accommodation near the ground
If you’re looking for accommodation near Optus Stadium in Perth, you are well covered. Throughout the city you will find a good range of options available to suit all budgets.
One of the closest is the Crown Towers Perth, located just a few minutes walk from the stadium. This luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a range of dining options, a full-service spa, and a 24-hour casino.
Another nearby option is the Aloft Perth, a modern hotel situated on the Swan River with easy access to the stadium. The hotel features contemporary rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the river and the city.
For those on a budget, the Ibis Budget Perth Airport offers affordable accommodations just a short drive from the stadium. The hotel presents clean and comfortable rooms, free parking, and easy access to public transportation.
Other recommended options include the Fraser Suites Perth, a stylish and modern apartment hotel located in the CBD, and the Novotel Perth Langley, a well-appointed hotel with river views and a range of amenities, including a pool and a restaurant.
Good pubs to visit
For those after a good pub to frequent either before or after the game, there are several options to choose from, depending on your preferences.
One popular option is The Camfield, located just outside the stadium. This massive pub boasts multiple bars, a restaurant, and an outdoor beer garden with stunning views of the Swan River. The Camfield is also known for its wide selection of craft beers, spirits, and cocktails, as well as its hearty pub grub.
Another good place to consider is the Belgian Beer Cafe, which is located in the heritage-listed No.1 Treasury Building in the CBD. A cosy and stylish pub, it offers a wide selection of Belgian beers, as well as classic pub fare with a European twist.
Should you want a more traditional pub experience, The Royal on the Waterfront is a terrific choice. This historic pub is located in a stunning waterfront location and features a large beer garden, an extensive menu of pub grub, and live music on weekends.
Other recommended venues to pop into include The Reveley, a rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning river views at Elizabeth Quay, and the Inglewood Hotel which has lots of big-screen TVs that broadcasts all kinds of sports.
Quick Stats
Address: 333 Victoria Park Dr, Burswood WA 6100
Capacity: 61,266 (oval sports), 65,000 (rectangle sports)
Opened: 2018
Field size: 165 metres × 130 metres
Record attendance: 73,092 (Ed Sheeran concert 2023)