FACTBase Bulletin 1 - Westward Bound

This short papers explores the shifting distribution of corporate power and, more specifically, considers where Perth fits into the national corporate landscape.

Key Findings

• While Perth has a rapidly growing level of corporate activity, majority of the firms are relatively small players compared to Sydney and Melbourne where the greatest concentration of market capitalisation remain.
• The success of smaller firms such as Fortescue Metals Group, Iluka Resources, and Austral, and being able to grow and retain the firms will be important for Perth’s long-term economic development.
• Perth’s corporate landscape is highly specialised – dominated by the minerals and energy sectors, which makes the city a site of considerable knowledge, skills, and innovation.
• Perth has the highest number of headquarters per capita in Australia, making it a more entrepreneurial city.
• Corporate headquarters play a significant role in shaping the economic and social development of cities.