East Perth Power Station

Why is it important?

The East Perth Power Station is one a hand full of remaining industrial sites on the Swan River. The power station was the largest and only government operated electricity supply utility supplying Perth during the first half of the 20th Century. The power station complex represents the pioneering phase of the Western Australian electricity system, and dates from the era when the industry world-wide was in a formative stage. It has historic value for its role in the development of WA and the metropolitan area in particular. It is one of the few large scale industrial sites from the pre World War One period still existing in Australia. It is likely that the power station complex contains the most comprehensive collection of steam turbine generating units in Australia which remain in situ.

Why is it at risk?

In 1981, after 68 years of continual service the power station was closed. It was left abandoned and neglected until 2003, when the state government approved funding to stabilise the fabric of the building. In 2006 this work was completed, yet nearly 5 years later a viable future for this important heritage place has yet to be determined.

What should be done?

Further delay by government in developing and implementing solutions for this significant place is inexcusable and will lead to further decay through exposure to the elements and to vandalism.
The conservation of the heritage values of this place through adaptive re-use has to be given a greater priority by the East Perth Redevelopment Commission which is responsible for the development of the place. This process should be transparent and involve heritage stakeholders such as the National Trust.