It will be the third time an Australian city has held the World Police and Fire Games, the others being Melbourne (in 1995) and Adelaide (2007). Photo: iStock/delectus.
The West Australian capital is set to host the 22nd World Police and Fire Games in 2027, bringing more than 70 countries to a competition staging 65 events.
It will invite active, retired and volunteer members of police and emergency services, Corrections, firefighting and Customs to compete in friendly sports matches, with various social legacy and community programs throughout the games.
Premier Roger Cook secured hosting rights for the multi-day showcase, which is held every two years and is expected to bring thousands of visitors and 8500 athletes to Perth.
Last year the Games were held in Winnipeg, Canada, but the one preceding 2027 is set to be in Birmingham, Alabama next year.
Police and Corrective Services Minister Paul Papalia said the event would provide an incredible environment for law enforcement and emergency services workers to gather, support each other and participate in friendly competition.
“It also provides the community with an opportunity to publicly support first responders, champion their sacrifices and acknowledge their contributions to the community,” Mr Papalia said.
“We know the Western Australia Police Force is equal to the best in the world, and now our officers can compete for bragging rights against their international counterparts on home soil.”
The State Government and WA Police Sports Federation Inc (WAPSF) achieved the successful bid alongside the WA Police, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), Corrective Services, City of Perth and VenuesWest.
It’s hoped the event will be a significant financial windfall for the state’s economy, with more jobs and a boost to its tourism industry.
Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti welcomed the Games’ potential as she noted the state’s past year holding 12 mass-participation events, which in total contributed $96 million to the WA economy.
“Mass-participation events like the World Police and Fire Games are all part of our government’s events and overarching tourism strategies because they deliver huge benefits for our state’s economy in terms of visitation and tourism spend,” she said.
“Of course, we know that many of the athletes, coaches and spectators use these types of events as an opportunity to travel to new destinations, so I really hope and encourage those who travel to Perth in three years’ time to extend their travel and turn it into an unforgettable holiday exploring our beautiful state.”
