Free entry for under 13s to Perth Royal Show

Children 12 years and under will get free entry into this year's Perth Royal Show, a saving of $12 per child, as a result of Western Australian Government funding.

Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett announced that children would be admitted free when accompanied by an adult each day of the show, which runs from 1st to 8th October.

Premier Barnett explained "we were aware that there could be an impact on the show by changing the public holiday from Monday 3rd October to Friday 28th October this year which was done, after wide consultation, to minimise any potential disruption caused by hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2011.

"The Government has arranged free entry for children 12 and under, when accompanied by an adult, for all of show week and this should ensure strong visitor numbers are retained, even without the benefit of the usual Monday public holiday."

The free entry decision is part of the Western Australian Government's commitment to help people under financial duress and the impact should be most beneficial to families with young children.

The Western Australian Government has also provided financial support to the Royal Agricultural Society to host Malaysia as this year's guest nation at the show.

"As guest nation, Malaysia will be able to promote arts, culture, tourism, trade and investment," Premier Barnett stated, adding "it is a wonderful opportunity for all those attending the show to learn more about an important fellow member of the Commonwealth.

"With just over one month to go until CHOGM 2011 starts, the finishing touches are being put on a variety of events and activities planned to coincide with the major international event.

"Perth will not only play host to world leaders and Her Majesty The Queen, but also stage events for everyone to enjoy such as the eight-day Commonwealth Festival, from 23rd to 30th October, plus international netball and hockey."

In a just released Annual Report on Western Australia's finances, State Treasurer Christian Porter announced that additional revenue has been put aside for the Perth Stadium development.

The Western Australian Government will now create a Special Purpose Account for Perth Stadium, allocating a further $100 million to the account.

21st June 2011 - CLAREMONT SHOWGROUNDS REFURBISHMENT FOR PERTH ROYAL SHOW