New Horizons Webinar: Wide Awake, WA – Perth’s dawn economy opportunity

WA may have long been known as “Wait Awhile”, but when it comes to the dawn economy, perhaps it’s time for a new slogan: Wide Awake.

Perth is one of Australia’s earliest-rising cities – but are we making the most of it?

International research shows that morning activity is no longer simply a lifestyle trend. Across many cities, spending in the early hours now rivals the night-time economy, driven by changing work patterns, growing demand for wellness experiences and evolving consumer behaviour. Perth is uniquely positioned to lead in this space.

Around 30% of Perth’s cafés and food venues are open between 6am and 7am, placing us ahead of Sydney and Melbourne and alongside Australia’s earliest trading cities. Research also shows Australians now spend almost as much between 5am and 11am as they do during the traditional evening economy, highlighting a significant opportunity for cities to rethink how they support activity across the full day.

From cafés and fitness culture to business meetings across multiple time zones and morning beach walks before work, Perth has developed a distinctive early-morning rhythm. The question is: how can we build on these strengths to create an even more vibrant, productive and globally competitive city?

Join Committee for Perth for a conversation with Dr Anna Edwards, one of Australia’s leading experts on 24-hour economies, urban governance and economic research, as we explore the opportunities of Perth’s dawn economy.

Together we’ll discuss:

• What the dawn economy is and why it matters
• The latest research and emerging trends shaping morning activity
• International examples of cities embracing the early hours
• The infrastructure, transport and investment needed to unlock Perth’s potential
• How a stronger dawn economy could support local businesses, improve liveability, activate public spaces and help attract and retain talent

Whether your interest is in city planning, economic development, transport, hospitality, investment or creating a more connected Perth, this webinar will offer fresh ideas and practical insights into one of our city’s most exciting opportunities.