VenuesWest to Assume Direct Management of RAC Arena from 1 July 2026

• VenuesWest will assume direct management of RAC Arena from 1 July 2026, following the conclusion of its agreement with Legends Global.
• Self-management will deliver the best value-for-money outcome for Western Australians.
• Legends Global thanked for 13+ years of management of this iconic venue

From 1 July 2026, RAC Arena will come under the direct management of VenuesWest, following a comprehensive procurement process and evaluation.

 VenuesWest currently owns 14 of Western Australia’s premier sport and entertainment venues on behalf of the State Government, including RAC Arena. These venues also include Optus Stadium, HBF Park, Arena Joondalup and Perth High Performance Centre. Proudly working towards its vision of becoming Australia’s premier provider of sport and entertainment precincts, VenuesWest has a strong track record of successfully delivering world-class experiences and hosting major events.

 VenuesWest is committed to providing exceptional experiences for Western Australians and visitors to our State. The change in venue management will enable a consistent customer experience across the VenuesWest portfolio, capitalising on the continued investment in world class sport and entertainment precincts across the State and boosting the State Governments event workforce capabilities.

 The current agreement with Legends Global will conclude on 30 June 2026. VenuesWest undertook a market test to ensure the best possible value for Western Australia. Following a robust analysis, the VenuesWest Board determined that direct management provides the best value for money option, with the change expected to deliver millions of dollars in cost savings and efficiencies for WA taxpayers - while enhancing the agencies capability to manage venues and events.

 VenuesWest will work with Legends Global to maximise the number of staff retained in their current roles and to ensure minimal disruption to staffing and operations during the transition period. The change will see RAC Arena managed in a similar manner to HBF Park which has been directly managed by VenuesWest since 2014.

 VenuesWest will be seeking a partner to work with for the delivery of catering services, ensuring the venue continues to be recognised for delivering world class experiences.

Comments attributable to Chair VenuesWest Mary Anne Stephens:

 “RAC Arena is a flagship venue for Western Australia, and this decision reflects a clear strategy to maintain its success in the most efficient way possible. With VenuesWest’s strong track record in managing major venues and events, we are confident this approach will deliver exceptional outcomes and value for the State.”

Comments attributable to CEO VenuesWest David Etherton:

 "This decision reflects our commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for Western Australians. By bringing RAC Arena under direct management, we can ensure greater alignment with our vision and continue to provide world-class sport and entertainment experiences."

 “Our thanks go to the team at RAC Arena and the broader Legends Global group for more than 13 years of managing this amazing venue for us.  We hope that the majority of the staff at RAC Arena will continue delivering outstanding experiences under VenuesWest’s management and will be reaching out to them shortly.”

 “We look forward to working with Legends Global on a seamless transition for the staff, customers, hirers and suppliers.”