Police to have highly visible presence at Perth’s city centre New Year’s Eve celebrations

Police have vowed they’ll have a highly visible presence at Perth’s city centre New Year’s Eve celebrations this week, which are expected to attract more than 100,000 people to one of the biggest ever fireworks displays.

Festivities begin with a 12-minute family-friendly fireworks show at 8.30pm, followed by a major 15-minute production at midnight at Elizabeth Quay. Those celebrating in Northbridge will also be treated to rooftop fireworks as the clock strikes midnight.

Police yesterday said the city was one of five key entertainment precincts where they would be active, while other key regional and metropolitan sites include Fremantle, Scarborough, Hillarys and Mandurah.

“We encourage everyone to respect themselves and others – stay safe and have fun,” a spokesman said.

City of Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said council rangers would also support police efforts on what he said would be a “massive” night.

“With the success of last year exceeding expectations, we’re looking at backing that up this year with an even bigger and better display,” he said.

The show will once again be delivered by Cardile Fireworks, with owner Rob Cardile returning after producing the city’s inaugural display last year.

Cr Reynolds said expectations were high as Perth prepared to farewell 2025.

“It’s going to be hard to top last year because Rob Cardile just went above and beyond, he’s set the bar that he’ll have to meet this year,” he said.

“I have no doubt he’ll be tinkering with things to make it bigger and better.”

Beyond the fireworks, a range of entertainment options will be on offer for families throughout the evening.

Barrack Square will host interactive circus-style performances, including aerial acts, alongside food trucks and seating areas spread throughout the quay.

“We’ve also got the Lotterywest family fun zone at Supreme Court Gardens, which is free carnival rides,” Mr Reynolds said.

While Elizabeth Quay is expected to be the most popular vantage point, Mr Reynolds said there were several locations in the city where spectators could enjoy the display.

“Ideally we’d want people to come into the quay area or to come into the city to the foreshore and support our businesses but no doubt there will be people on the South Perth side that will get a bit of a vantage space, and Kings Park,” he said.

Elsewhere, Mandurah will also host New Year’s Eve fireworks at 9pm and midnight, with live performances from Brisbane-based pop trio Sheppard scheduled between displays.

Free fireworks will also be held in Mindarie, Rockingham and on Rottnest Island.

Fremantle will round out the festive period with a concert at the Fremantle Arts Centre on New Year’s Day.