Perth has been announced as the presumptive host city for Gay Games XIII in 2030, positioning Western Australia as the second city in Oceania to welcome the world’s largest inclusive sporting and cultural event.
Following a competitive 20-month global bid process, Perth emerged as the preferred host city in a final vote held recently in Valencia, Spain. The decision follows rigorous bid assessments, including detailed bid book submissions, on-ground inspections, and extensive Q&A engagements with the Federation of Gay Games (FGG).
Taking place 9 – 16 March 2030, the Games are expected to welcome thousands of international participants and spectators for a week-long festival of up to 36 sporting competitions and six cultural events, alongside spectacular opening and closing ceremonies.
Secured through a successful bid led by Pride WA, with strong backing from the Western Australian Government through Tourism WA, Gay Games XIII is set to deliver a major boost to the local economy, driving visitation, hospitality demand and international visibility for Perth as a vibrant, inclusive global city.
“The 2030 Gay Games XIII is a fantastic celebration of sport, inclusion, and diversity, and it is a great honour that Perth has been selected as the host city for this wonderful event,” said Tourism Minister Reece Whitby.
“Hosting the Gay Games showcases Perth as a cultural city, fostering a vibrant economy, solidifying WA’s reputation as a world-class host of events, and giving visitors a time-specific reason to visit the State.”
“Perth is so incredibly honoured to be named the presumptive host for Gay Games XIII 2030. This is for our LGBTQIA+ community who have worked tirelessly to support this bid. We can’t wait to bring the world to Perth in 2030,” said Co-Chair of the Perth 2030 Bid and CEO of Pride W, Dr Lauren (Laurie) Butterly.
Founded in 1982, the Gay Games is the world’s largest inclusive sports and cultural event with a mission to promote equality, inclusion, and participation through sport and the arts.
Bringing together tens of thousands of athletes, artists, and visitors from more than 80 countries, the Games celebrate diversity and human connection beyond borders. Valencia is set to host Gay Games XII in 2026.
For more information about the Gay Games, visit: www.gaygames.org for details.
Image: Members of Perth Bid Team – courtesy of Federation of Gay Games