Perth’s live music scene is thriving. Some big name acts hail from here, from AC/DC to Tame Impala, John Butler and The Waifs, so that’s not surprising. Perth’s music venues span casual hangouts to nightclubs and dedicated jazz venues. Hear anything from promising local acts to international visitors.

The Rechabite, Northbridge

The Rechabite is a multi-level complex offering four floors of eclectic entertainment and hospitality treats, wrapped around The Rechabite Hall, an iconic live performance space. Resurrected from the ruins of a century-old heritage hall in the heart of Perth’s entertainment and cultural precincts, enjoy weekly live music, the Hello Rooftop Bar, Birdbath, Goodwill Club and Double Rainbow.

The Astor Theatre, Mount Lawley

In nearly 100 years since it opened as The Lyceum, The Astor Theatre has seen action as a place to see theatre, dancing, orchestra, karate, silent movies and more. These days it’s one of the best live music venues in Perth. Its vintage red velvet chairs and art deco aesthetic make a great backdrop for local, national and international acts.

Jack Rabbit Slims, Northbridge

From fries to alcoholic milkshakes, Jack Rabbit Slim’s takes its cues from 1950’s pulp fiction. Walk through the refrigerator doors into a night club hosting a variety of local and international acts. It’s an eclectic line-up, from rock to hip hop, indie, electronic, R&B and more, and the crowd is varied.

The Ellington, Mount Lawley

One of Perth’s favourite jazz music venues, The Ellington Jazz Club is a cabaret style venue with a dedicated jazz bent. Musicians from Australia and the world play on a weekly basis. It keeps jazz hours (open until around 3am) on Friday and Saturdays. The setting is opulent and you can enjoy share plates from the bar.

The Bird, Northbridge

Right in the heart of Northbridge, The Bird is that place you can take a chance on. Walk in off the street, pay a small entry fee, and enjoy the pot luck of local and international acts. You might even get a story telling evening, or some performance art. There’s a courtyard at the rear where you can take a breather and enjoy some conversation.

The Rosemount Hotel, North Perth

Having won several awards as a live music venue, The Rosemount Hotel is a stalwart of the local music scene. A longstanding pub in the heart of North Perth, it’s the go-to for great international touring acts and homegrown talent. There’s often DJ’s or acoustic acts playing the the beer garden, where you can also get a feed.

Mojos Bar, Fremantle

Still going strong after 30-plus years, Mojos is Fremantle’s longest standing original music venue. It’s a small room with a lot of vibe. See everything from acoustic, reggae, rock and contemporary, from both local and touring acts. Most nights there’s something on: Mondays sees Open Mic Night, if you’re into the raw talent. A pool table and courtyard offers some reprieve from the main stage.

The Fremantle Arts Centre,  Fremantle

A large heritage building surrounded by old trees and lawns, the Fremantle Arts Centre is a creative hub with galleries, studios, a cafe and gift shop. In summer months, there’s free music in the courtyard on Sunday afternoons. Throughout the year, big name acts perform on the South Lawn, one of Perth’s most agreeable outdoor amphitheatres.

Freo Social, Fremantle

Fremantle’s newest music venue rose out of the ashes of old favourite, The Fly By Night Club, and never looked back. Everything from international touring acts to original local bands make appearances at Freo Social, along with the odd quiz night. There’s something on most evenings in the mid-sized music hall. Food trucks and a hip bar complete the scene.