Guide
Perth Business & Economy 2026 — The Complete Local Guide
Perth's economy runs on more than iron ore. While the resources sector still anchors Western Australia's export base, the local economy in 2026 is broader and more interesting than the rest of the country often gives it credit for: critical minerals and battery materials, oil and gas servicing, agriculture and live exports, defence shipbuilding at Henderson, tourism, advanced manufacturing, fintech and a small but growing startup ecosystem. The Daily Perth covers all of it — quarterly results from WA-headquartered ASX-listed companies, capex announcements from majors like BHP, Rio Tinto, Fortescue and Woodside, M&A activity, IPO pipelines, retail trading conditions on local high streets, hospitality openings and closures, commercial property leasing, jobs, wages and the cost of doing business in WA. This pillar brings together our most recent business and economy reporting in one place. Use it to keep up with the deals, the numbers and the operators that shape Perth's daily economy in 2026.
Latest articles on this topic
Perth shares edge higher as precious metals bounce amid volatile trading
Gold's rebound helped Australian equities finish higher for the day, though local shares posted a weekly loss as investors navigate mixed signals.
West Coast Eagles pursue Western Derby trademark as AFL branding battle heats up
The Eagles have lodged a trademark application for the Western Derby name, sparking questions about intellectual property in Perth's football landscape.
Perth hotel sector gains momentum as Singapore buyer pays $26m for Pensione
A Singapore property group's acquisition of the Pensione Hotel signals renewed investor confidence in Perth's hospitality market.
Ampol's cashless expansion tests WA's cash mandate as fuel giant expands without restrictions
Major fuel retailer's plan to triple cashless sites comes after securing a five-year exemption from national cash requirements, leaving Perth drivers with fewer payment options.
Fuel bowser audit flags accuracy concerns for Perth drivers at the pump
A national measurement audit reveals some Australian petrol stations may be short-changing motorists, raising questions about WA fuel compliance.
National fuel bowser audit flags short-changing risk for Perth drivers
A new national audit has revealed some Australian fuel bowsers are short-changing drivers, raising questions about whether Perth's petrol stations are meeting measurement standards.
Ampol's cashless expansion puts pressure on Perth's struggling retail compliance
Fuel giant Ampol is tripling its cashless U-Go network despite a national cash mandate, creating fresh tension for Perth petrol stations and retailers navigating compliance rules.
National audit reveals some Australian fuel bowsers are short-changing drivers
A new audit has found that some service stations across Australia are not dispensing the full amount of fuel customers have paid for.