Optus Stadium in Perth, Western Australia, is widely regarded as one of the most advanced multi-purpose venues in the world. Opened in 2018 on the Burswood Peninsula, it quickly became the centerpiece of Australian sport.
In 2019, it was voted the “Most Beautiful Sports Facility in the World,” and it’s easy to see why. The design feels open, modern, and built entirely around the fan experience.
1. Optus Stadium Layout and Architecture
Optus Stadium follows a sleek, circular open-air design that guarantees strong sightlines from every seat. There are no awkward corners or blocked views.
“Fans-First” Design
The lightweight fabric roof covers roughly 85% of seats. It protects spectators from Perth’s intense sun while still allowing natural light and airflow into the arena.
The open ends preserve that outdoor atmosphere, especially during evening cricket matches when the sky turns deep orange.
Seating Configuration
The stadium is flexible and adaptable:
- Standard Cricket & AFL: 60,000 capacity
- Rectangular Sports (Rugby/Soccer): Up to 65,000
- Concerts: Up to 75,000 using floor seating
The bowl is divided across multiple tiers. For cricket, iconic vantage points include the Langer Stand and the WACA Members’ End — a nod to Western Australia’s rich cricket history.
The steep seating angles keep fans close to the field despite the stadium’s large footprint.
2. Optus Stadium Capacity
- Standard Sporting Capacity: 60,000
- Maximum Concert Capacity: 75,000
Record Attendance
73,092 spectators attended the Ed Sheeran concert in 2023 — the highest recorded crowd at the venue.
For cricket, Ashes Tests and Big Bash League matches regularly approach full capacity.
3. Access and Connectivity
Located on the Burswood Peninsula, Optus Stadium is built with transport efficiency in mind.
Train
Perth Stadium Station is the most efficient route. It features six platforms and connects seamlessly with the broader Perth metropolitan rail network.
Special event trains run at high frequency before and after major fixtures.
Walking and Cycling
The Matagarup Bridge offers a dedicated pedestrian and cycle path linking East Perth directly to the stadium. On match days, thousands of fans cross the bridge, creating a festival-like atmosphere.
Parking
On-site parking is extremely limited and tightly controlled. Event-day traffic restrictions are common.
Public transport is strongly encouraged and often included with event tickets.
4. Modern Facilities
Optus Stadium sets a benchmark for integrated fan technology.
Super Screens
The venue features two of the largest super-screens in Australia — each measuring 340 square meters. Over 1,000 additional TV screens are distributed throughout concourses so fans never miss replays.
Connectivity
Full 5G coverage is installed throughout the stadium. Even during sell-out crowds, data speeds remain stable for social sharing and digital ticketing.
Accessibility
The stadium is highly inclusive:
- Over 450 wheelchair-accessible positions
- 60+ universally accessible toilets
- Dedicated Sensory Room for patrons with sensory sensitivities
The layout makes movement smooth for all spectators.
Dining Experience
More than 50 food and beverage outlets operate inside the venue. Options range from classic stadium snacks to premium Western Australian produce and international cuisine.
Queue management systems are efficient, especially during AFL games.
5. Ticket Information
Digital Ticketing
As of February 2026, Optus Stadium has fully transitioned to an Enhanced Digital Ticketing System. Tickets are scanned directly from mobile wallets.
Downloading tickets in advance is strongly recommended to avoid entry delays.
Booking Platforms
Tickets for cricket, AFL, and major concerts are primarily sold through Ticketmaster.
Corporate Hospitality
Premium hospitality packages — including private suites (12–24 guests) and open-air corporate boxes — are managed through the stadium’s official premium portal.
These sections often sell out early for Ashes Tests and AFL finals.
Conclusion
Optus Stadium represents the modern blueprint for a global sports venue. It combines design, technology, accessibility, and transport planning in a way few stadiums manage to balance.
It is large without feeling distant. Advanced without feeling cold.
Whether it’s an Ashes Test, an AFL derby, or a sold-out concert, the stadium consistently delivers a polished experience.
In Perth, this is more than a venue. It’s the new standard.
