20 November 2025 | The Australian Hotels Association (WA) says The Ashes are delivering a major uplift for Western Australia’s visitor economy with Perth hotel occupancy nearing capacity and strong trading expected across hospitality venues statewide.
AHA(WA) CEO Bradley Woods said that Perth hotels are running at near-full occupancy for the Ashes, with forward bookings at an exceptional 96-98 per cent across the main match days, based on accommodation occupancy data commissioned by the AHA(WA) with the CoStar Group.
“The Ashes is translating into real economic impact for WA, with visitor spend flowing from the CBD to coastal precincts and regional day‑trip destinations. There’s a festival atmosphere right across the city,” said Mr Woods.
“This surge of visitors will deliver a major economic boost, with restaurants, pubs and bars scaling up staffing and resources and expecting strong trade across the weekend with the Ashes and West Fest activations. Hotels and venues have boosted rosters, extended trading where appropriate, and coordinated transport and security planning to ensure a seamless visitor experience.
“This weekend is a showcase of WA hospitality at scale, thousands of additional shifts and a strong pipeline of casual employment.
“Based on comparable events, we anticipate tens of millions of dollars in visitor expenditure across accommodation, food and beverage. Early indicators show strong restaurant and bar turnover, with elevated spend per head compared to a standard summer weekend.”
The AHA(WA) said that major events, such as The Ashes, provide immediate economic benefits as well as showcasing Perth to international and interstate visitors who often return for future holidays.
“We’re seeing the Barmy Army and east coast fans heading west, many extending their stay to explore Perth and surrounds. Visitors are adding a day or two to their trips, and places like the Swan Valley, Rottnest, Fremantle and beyond are all seeing an uplift in bookings,” said Mr Woods.
“This international cricket match is a clear example of how major events fill our hotels and drive significant spending through WA’s hospitality industry. It’s a great opportunity to put our best foot forward and show how Perth thrives when major events are in town,” said Mr Woods.
Key points
- 96–98 per cent forward hotel bookings across main match days (data commissioned by AHA(WA) from the CoStar Group)
- Strong weekend trade expected across restaurants, pubs and bars, aligned with West Fest activations
- Anticipated visitor spend in the tens of millions of dollars across accommodation and food and beverage
- Influx includes international and interstate supporters, with many extending stays to explore WA
- Industry scaling up staffing and activations to meet demand, supporting local jobs and small businesses
Notes to editors
Occupancy figures are based on accommodation data commissioned by AHA(WA) from the CoStar Group.
For further information, please contact Kim Forrester, media & communications executive, on 0411 777 593 or email mecom@ahawa.asn.au
The AHA(WA) is the authoritative voice for the hospitality and accommodation industry in Western Australia. Since 1892, we have protected and developed the interests of our members, through strong representation and the pursuit of industry excellence. Our mission is to ensure the hospitality industry remains a vital part of the Australian way of life and to amplify the voices of those we represent.
