About RAC Arena
RAC Arena (formerly Perth Arena) is a premier indoor sports and entertainment venue in the heart of Perth, Western Australia. It opened in November 2012 (sportstechnology.ausleisure.com.au ) and is owned by VenuesWest on behalf of the State Government (www.venueswest.wa.gov.au ). The arena seats roughly 15,000 people for concerts and large events (about 14,800 for basketball) (www.parkwise.com.au ), making it the largest indoor capacity in Western Australia. Its eye-catching design – a 12-sided “puzzle” shape clad in metal panels – has become an instant city landmark. The architects (ARM Architecture in joint venture with Cameron Chisholm Nicol) even won the prestigious WA architecture award for the project (architectureau.com ). Locals have nicknamed it things like “the crushed beer can” or “the spaceship” thanks to its unusual look (architectureau.com ). Inside, the venue features cutting-edge acoustics and technology – the official description notes “exceptional acoustics and state-of-the-art sound systems” to deliver clear audio to every seat (www.racarena.com.au ) (www.theurbandeveloper.com ). In fact, soon after it opened, Billboard magazine ranked it the world’s top arena of its size (10,000–15,000 capacity) for 2014 (www.venueswest.wa.gov.au ). All this makes RAC Arena a standout in Perth’s live scene: since opening it has rapidly become a “must-play” stop on major tours (www.venueswest.wa.gov.au ) (www.perthnow.com.au ).
Events and Programming
RAC Arena hosts a massive range of events year-round. It is Perth’s go-to concert venue, attracting international stars and chart-toppers. The world’s biggest pop and rock acts have performed here – for example, artists like Ed Sheeran, Beyoncé, P!nk, Metallica, Katy Perry and Justin Timberlake have all played sell-out shows at the arena (www.racarena.com.au ) (sportstechnology.ausleisure.com.au ). Local rock icons (Midnight Oil, John Farnham) and current chart artists (Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg) have also packed the house in recent years (www.venueswest.wa.gov.au ) (sportstechnology.ausleisure.com.au ). In addition to concerts, the arena often hosts musicals and family shows. The venue website even highlights that it stages “everything from powerful pop performances and captivating musicals to explosive rock events or exciting family events” (www.racarena.com.au ). Touring theatrical productions (Disney shows, major exhibitions, circus acts and etc.) also use the arena when they come to Perth.
It’s also a sports hub. RAC Arena is home to the Perth Wildcats (NBL basketball) (sportstechnology.ausleisure.com.au ) and the West Coast Fever (Super Netball) (www.racarena.com.au ). The Fever played their first game here in 2013 and now regularly draw large crowds (a 2018 grand-final saw a record 13,722 fans in attendance) (www.racarena.com.au ). The arena has hosted major sports events and exhibitions, including national netball finals, tennis team events (the Perth-hosted United Cup and Hopman Cup) and even the Harlem Globetrotters show (www.venueswest.wa.gov.au ). In July 2022, a UFC fight night at the arena set an attendance record for any sports event there (over 14,000 fans) (www.venueswest.wa.gov.au ). While concerts and games are most common, you may also find comedy tours, expo and community shows scheduled here.
Typical ticket prices vary by event: for concerts, general tickets often range from roughly A$80–200 (premium seats are higher); basketball and netball tickets often start around A$20–$50 for standard seats, with courtside seats at a premium.
Major concerts usually announce on-sale dates months ahead. Sign up for venue or artist newsletters to get presale access. For big tours, tickets often sell out fast, so buying early is key. Event promoters and the RAC Arena website will list official ticket outlets.
Smaller events or non-ticketed occasions (community events, fan days) may have different entry procedures—check event details. If tickets remain, the arena box office usually opens ~1–2 hours before showtime for walk-up sales (subject to availability).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for RAC Arena events are sold through authorized outlets and the venue’s box office. Scout announcement sites or local media for the exact on-sale dates. For very popular shows, it’s wise to join any presale (fan club, venue membership or credit card presale) so you have the earliest access. On-sale prices will vary by event; expect premium seats (floor or front-row) to cost more. When booking, compare seat tiers: lower bowl centre or premium club seats sit higher in the bowl. Be sure to purchase only through official sellers (avoid scalpers or unofficial resale sites). If tickets sell out, occasionally the box office might release a limited number at door, but don’t count on it—arrive early if you plan that route.
The arena box office is located at the main entrance and typically opens on event days about an hour before doors. If you have questions about bookings, seating charts, or accessible seating, staff at the box office can assist. In most cases, you can show a printed or mobile ticket (check the specific event’s policy on digital tickets). WA residents sometimes have local box office outlets (e.g. the Perth Entertainment Centre did in the past), but today online purchase through official sellers is standard. Free standing “will-call” lines are usually separate for printed tickets or will-call collections.
Seating and Layout
The arena’s seating is arranged in a steep bowl around the central floor. For basketball and netball, the court is at centre and seating wraps around it on all sides. For concerts, the standard setup is an end-stage (at one end of the arena) with general admission standing on the flat floor in front of the stage, and tiered seating in the lower, mid and upper bowls. The main seating tiers are all cushioned and curved so that even seats off to the sides have a fair view. Best seats depend on your preference: mid-level centre sections (or the front few rows on floor) give great sightlines to the stage. In end-stage configuration, seats directly behind the stage are not sold. Avoid very high back corners, as they are farther from the action (though even these seats have good audio, thanks to the arena’s sound system) (www.racarena.com.au ) (www.theurbandeveloper.com ). Many concerts also offer premium packages or corporate boxes with lounge access; these are usually indicated when you book.
The audio-visual system is top-notch: the venue was specifically designed so that performers’ music and vocals carry clearly to every corner (www.racarena.com.au ). Fans often remark that the acoustics are outstanding for a stadium of this size. If you’re watching from far up the nosebleed level, raised platforms and angled seating make even distant views workable. All levels have nearby restrooms and concession stands. Accessibility-wise, each tier is served by stairs and elevators. Overall, most seats in RAC Arena offer a high-quality concert or game experience with unobstructed sightlines to the action.
Getting There and Parking
RAC Arena is centrally located at Wellington Street (near William and Milligan Streets) in Perth’s CBD. It sits just north of the historic city link development. Public transport is the easiest way to reach the venue. The nearest train station is Perth Station (on the city rail loop), just a few blocks away on Wellington/William (www.transperth.wa.gov.au ). Transperth suburban trains (Joondalup, Mandurah, etc.) stop there, and it’s a short 5–10 minute walk to the arena. Several bus routes also serve the area – many city buses stop along Wellington, William and Wellington East Saul Street. A free central-area bus (CAT) also runs past Wellington and William and stops nearby. After events, Transperth often runs extra services and guests may use a free transit pass on the day of a major event (bus only; see Transperth site for details).
If driving, note that traffic and parking demand get heavy around showtimes. RAC Arena has a large underground car park with about 680 spaces (www.parkwise.com.au ). The entrance is on Milligan Street (also accessible via Market Street). Parking operates on a first-come basis and standard event rates (roughly A$20–30 for the evening). On-street metered parking or commercial parking lots are available in the vicinity but fill up quickly. Rideshare/taxis: drop-off is permitted on Wellington Street right at the foyer. Allow extra time when leaving – city traffic can back up after big events. For early or late-night shows, trains run until around midnight (sometimes later), and plenty of late buses and rideshares run in this zone.
Inside the Venue
When you enter RAC Arena, you’ll pass through security screening. Staff will check small bags (allowed size is up to A4 paper) and may use metal detectors. (www.racarena.com.au ) (www.racarena.com.au ). No oversized bags, alcohol, glass bottles or outside food/drink are allowed inside (for example, all cans or bottles are prohibited) (www.racarena.com.au ). Once inside, you’ll find a wide concourse ring with multiple entry gates to the seating bowl. There are many restroom facilities on each level. Several concession kiosks and bars serve food and beverages around the concourse – typical offerings include hot dogs, burgers, beer-battered chips and wraps, plus snacks like ice cream (www.racarena.com.au ) (they also stock vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options). The “RAC Local Lounge” on the ground floor has full food and drink service and opens about 30 minutes before events (RAC members get priority entry) (www.racarena.com.au ), which is great for grabbing a meal beforehand. Merchandise stalls (selling event t-shirts and souvenirs) are usually set up near the main entrance or concourse.
Inside the bowl, all general seating is numbered and cushioned. For standing events, the floor is open (general admission). Staff are on hand to help you find seats. The venue is fully air-conditioned. If you need assistance or medical help, look for the information or first aid kiosks on the concourse. There’s also a Customer Service desk near one of the main entrances. Free Wi-Fi is not generally advertised (as with most arenas, cell coverage is best on the concourse). Power outlets are rare or reserved for staff; keep devices charged. Overall the atmosphere is energetic – fans often paint their faces, wear team jerseys or wave glowsticks at concerts, adding to the memorable indoor stadium vibe.
Nearby Amenities
The area around RAC Arena is packed with amenities. On Wellington Street itself there are several fast-food shops, cafés and bistros – fans often stop there before shows. A popular pre-event spot is the Four Points by Sheraton hotel (right across Wellington Street) which has a bar and café open to the public. Just a block away, the Perth City Link or Yagan Square precinct offers more dining options and a microbrewery. The nearby Northbridge district (about 5 minutes’ walk) is especially busy on event nights – it has dozens of eateries, bars and pubs to suit any taste (from casual pizza and Mexican to Asian noodle houses and trendy modern Australian cuisine). Late-night options are plentiful if a show runs late. A number of hotels are also close by for visitors: in addition to Four Points, places like the Rendezvous Hotel, Duxton, Mercure Perth, and Ibis are all within walking distance of the arena. (See schedule wisely – if a show ends after midnight, plan your transport home since some buses stop earlier.) In short, you’ll find food, drink and accommodation all around the venue: just step outside the doors and you’re in the CBD with everything a short walk away.
What Makes This Venue Special
The combination of size, design and location makes RAC Arena unique for Perth. When it opened it revolutionised Perth’s live-event scene – in its first two years it delivered over 177 major events and welcomed more than 1.6 million visitors (sportstechnology.ausleisure.com.au ). Perth’s population is smaller than Sydney/Melbourne, but thanks to this arena it has often outperformed other cities in getting major tours. For instance, on Bruce Springsteen’s 2014 tour he actually played more shows at Perth Arena than at any other Australian venue (www.perthnow.com.au ) – unheard-of for a venue in such a relatively small market. Fans and performers alike love the Arena. In surveys the venue has consistently rated very highly (for example a recent report showed 91% overall guest satisfaction (www.venueswest.wa.gov.au )). This is probably due to its modern amenities and lively atmosphere. Local culture is reflected after events too – it’s common to see fans in team jerseys or concert tee-shirts gathering in Northbridge bars after the show. The impressive LED facade is often lit up in striking colors at night during events, making the building itself a landmark. All these factors – from a glitzy foyer to technical excellence – give artists and audiences the sense that an event at RAC Arena is a big occasion. In short, it isn’t just another stadium in Perth; it’s become a cultural icon that anchors the city’s concert and sports calendar.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: RAC Arena is fully accessible. Wheelchairs and mobility aids are welcome (www.racarena.com.au ). The venue has dedicated wheelchair seating areas (bookable ahead via the venue’s booking line) or you can transfer to any standard seat with assistance (www.racarena.com.au ) (www.racarena.com.au ). Elevators and ramps connect all levels. Service animals (guide dogs, etc.) are usually permitted (bring accreditation documents if required). Hearing-loop systems or closed caption screens have been added for some events – ask the venue in advance if you need hearing support.
What to Bring: Buy as little as you need. Small bags (up to A4 size) are allowed (www.racarena.com.au ); larger bags and backpacks will be turned away, as will outside alcohol or glass/plastic containers (www.racarena.com.au ). You may bring a small pocket camera or phone (video recording/prosumer cameras are not allowed) (www.racarena.com.au ). Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. If it’s Perth winter, bring a light jacket (it can be chilly in the building after a rainstorm). Plan to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before the event starts. Doors typically open early (often 1 hour before showtime), giving you time to get food and find your seat. If you have general admission floor tickets, arrive even earlier (lines can form well before doors open).
Kids and Families: Children (of all ages) are welcome at RAC Arena unless a specific show has an age restriction. Infants/babies often fall under the “babies-in-arms” policy – typically, kids under about 3 years old can enter free on a parent’s lap (www.racarena.com.au ). Confirm the age cutoff for your event as it can vary. Kids may enjoy the louder, exciting atmosphere but consider bringing earplugs for younger children at rock concerts or sports events. Note that for safety, everyone (even little kids) counts toward fire capacity. Strollers should be checked at the entrance or left outside. Make sure the whole family has seats in the same section to avoid mix-ups in the dark.
Avoid These Mistakes: Don’t try to sneak in prohibited items like outside food/drink or professional cameras (www.racarena.com.au ) – they’ll be confiscated. Don’t park illegally; use the official car park or public parking. Don’t wait until the last minute to find transport after a big event; trains and buses can get very crowded. If you’ve never been, check a seating map online before you buy tickets so you know where “best seats” are (centre sections avoid tight angles on stage). Finally, double-check the show time and date – many events are sold out in advance, so you don’t want to miss your chance due to a calendar mix-up!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of RAC Arena?
RAC Arena can accommodate about 15,000 people for concerts. Sports configurations use slightly fewer seats; for example the documented capacity is roughly 14,846 for basketball and 13,910 for tennis events (www.parkwise.com.au ). The extra capacity for music events comes from the additional floor standing area in front of the stage.
When did RAC Arena open?
RAC Arena opened to the public in November 2012, with Sir Elton John performing the inaugural concert. (An industry report notes the arena’s “gala opening in November 2012” that kicked off its event history (sportstechnology.ausleisure.com.au ).)
What kind of events are held here?
RAC Arena hosts a wide variety of events. Concerts by major artists (pop, rock, hip-hop, EDM, country, etc.) are common – acts like Ed Sheeran, Beyoncé, Pink, Metallica and many others have played here (www.racarena.com.au ) (sportstechnology.ausleisure.com.au ). It also sees large-scale productions (musicals, family shows, comedy tours) and sporting events: the Perth Wildcats (basketball) and West Coast Fever (netball) use it as home court (sportstechnology.ausleisure.com.au ) (www.racarena.com.au ). Other events have included basketball exhibitions (Harlem Globetrotters), tennis tournaments (Perth Internationals/United Cup), and fighting tournaments (UFC).
How do I get to RAC Arena by public transport?
The arena is conveniently located near Perth Station (central train station on the Joondalup/Mandurah lines). In fact, Transperth notes that RAC Arena is only a short walk from Perth Station (www.transperth.wa.gov.au ). From there you can stroll a few blocks along Wellington/William Street to reach the venue. If you’re taking bus or City-link buses, many routes stop on Wellington Street or William Street right by the arena. Note that some special event tickets include free Transperth travel on buses/trains before and after the show (check with your event). Overall, using trains or buses is usually faster than driving, especially during showtime traffic.
Is there parking available at RAC Arena?
Yes. RAC Arena has a large underground car park with over 680 spaces (www.parkwise.com.au ). Entrances are on Milligan Street (and Market Street). Parking is available to the public, with event rates applying (typically around A$20–30 for the night). Since spaces fill quickly on event nights, it’s best to arrive early or consider carpooling. There is no free parking, and street parking is very limited. Taxi and rideshare drop-off is easier – vehicles can let passengers out on Wellington Street right in front of the main entrance.
Are small bags and cameras allowed inside?
You may bring a small bag (up to A4 size) into RAC Arena (www.racarena.com.au ). Anything larger (handbags, backpacks, large tote bags) won’t be admitted. Professional cameras or recording devices (with detachable lenses or audio recorders) are prohibited, but most mobile phones and point-and-shoot cameras are fine (www.racarena.com.au ). No outside beverages or glass containers are allowed either – for example, all cans and bottles are banned (www.racarena.com.au ). In short, bring only the essentials (phone, wallet, keys, a clear small bag) and leave bulky items at home or in your car.
Is RAC Arena wheelchair accessible?
Yes. All public areas, entrances and seating levels in RAC Arena are wheelchair accessible. The venue has designated wheelchair seating areas and plenty of companion seating. You can book accessibility seating in advance (via the box office or ticket agency) (www.racarena.com.au ). If you arrive in a wheelchair (even with a ticket for a regular seat), staff can cloak your wheelchair and assist you to transfer to your seat (www.racarena.com.au ) (www.racarena.com.au ). Restrooms and parking include accessible facilities as well.
What does “RAC” in RAC Arena stand for?
“RAC” stands for the Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia. The naming rights were acquired by RAC in 2018, and at that time the venue was renamed from “Perth Arena” to “RAC Arena” (everythingnetball.com ).
Are infants allowed, and is there a “babes in arms” policy?
Children of any age can attend events. Rostering often has a “babies-in-arms” policy: typically children under about 3 years of age are admitted free (they must sit on the lap of an adult) (www.racarena.com.au ). Exact age cut-offs can vary by event, so always check the specific show policy. For example, at a West Coast Fever game any child aged 3 years or younger can enter for free on a parent’s lap (www.racarena.com.au ). Otherwise, standard youth or child tickets apply. Young children should stay supervised – food and drink stands sell kid-friendly snacks, and staff can direct families to restrooms with baby change facilities.
Are food and drinks available inside RAC Arena?
Yes. There are multiple food and beverage stands in the concourse. You will find standard stadium fare: burgers, hot dogs, wraps, French fries (beer-battered chips) and pre-packaged snacks, plus soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (beer/wine) at the bars (www.racarena.com.au ). The RAC Local Lounge (ground level, Wellington Street) is a sit-down bar/restaurant open before shows for a meal or drink (www.racarena.com.au ). Prices are on par with other venues (snacks roughly $10–15, larger meals $15–25). If you have special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.), several outlets offer options or can help accommodate you (www.racarena.com.au ). Outside food or drink is not allowed – plan to eat before you enter, or buy inside.
What time do the doors open for events?
Door opening times vary with each event. As a rule of thumb, RAC Arena generally opens about 60 minutes before the advertised start time. Popular concerts often let people in 90 minutes early to allow time for concessions and seating. Sports events usually open the bowl about an hour before tip-off. Always check your ticket or event webpage: it usually lists the precise “doors open” time. Arriving early is wise, especially if you have general admission or want food inside – you’ll beat the rush. Note that late seating (for example, entering after a halftime break) is possible, but you may need to wait for an appropriate break in the action to slip into your row.
Is there a coat check or lost and found?
RAC Arena does not have a formal public coat check for patron belongings. Attendees are advised to carry as little as possible (small bags only) and keep personal items with them. If you lose something, there is usually a lost-and-found office at the information desk inside the venue. For emergencies or to find forgotten items, talk to a staff member; they can direct you to lost-and-found services.
Is there free Wi-Fi at RAC Arena?
The arena does not widely advertise a public Wi-Fi network. If available, it is usually limited to staff/sponsors. Most visitors rely on mobile data. Keep in mind that heavy cell usage during events can slow downloads – but basic texting and phone calls generally work inside the building. If you need Internet, try arriving early to use your mobile on the concourse, or see if nearby cafes (like those in Yagan Square) offer Wi-Fi before the show.
