W
estern Australia is celebrating the return of direct flights from Guangzhou to Perth, following the resumption of the China Southern Airlines service. The flight, which lands in Perth tonight, marks the first non-stop connection between the two cities since 2020. This development is expected to bring an additional 780 seats to WA each week, further enhancing tourism and trade relations with China, the state’s largest trading partner.
Strengthening Tourism and Trade
The China Southern Airlines flights will operate three times a week on a Boeing 787-9 aircraft, providing direct access to one of China’s major transport hubs. Guangzhou’s proximity to Hong Kong makes it a key gateway for Chinese and international travellers. The flight’s return is timely, coinciding with the Perth Chung Wah Cultural Festival, which celebrates local Chinese culture, and features events such as an international dragon boat racing competition.
Premier Roger Cook highlighted the significance of securing direct flights as part of the state’s broader tourism strategy. He emphasised that the flights will open up new opportunities for tourism, trade, and jobs, positioning WA as Australia’s Western Gateway. “This direct connection will supercharge our tourism industry, bringing in more visitors and diversifying the economy,” he said.
China has long been WA’s biggest tourism market, with 75,000 Chinese visitors contributing $328 million to the state’s economy in 2024. In addition, goods exported from WA to China amounted to $143 billion in 2023-24, underlining the importance of strengthening these links.
A Cultural Celebration
The return of direct flights is particularly meaningful for WA’s Chinese community, coinciding with the Perth Chung Wah Cultural Festival, which kicks off on Saturday, November 30. The festival will feature dragon boat racing, lion dancing, cultural performances, and a business forum, celebrating the cultural heritage of WA’s Chinese population.
The Guangzhou Liede Dragon Boat Team will be among the first passengers on the China Southern Airlines flight, ready to compete in the international dragon boat races on the Swan River. The festival, supported by a $2.15 million investment from the Global Connections Through Local Events program, is expected to draw a large crowd over its two-weekend run.
Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti noted that the resumption of the direct flight service will significantly boost WA’s tourism sector, with the convenience of non-stop travel encouraging more Chinese visitors. “Having nearly 800 additional seats available each week will energise adjacent sectors such as agriculture and business, solidifying WA’s position as Australia’s Western Gateway,” she said.
Community and Economic Benefits
For WA’s local Chinese community, the resumption of direct flights strengthens cultural and familial connections. Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Dr. Tony Buti expressed excitement at the cultural linkages the flights bring, particularly in light of the Perth Chung Wah Cultural Festival, which will showcase both local and international talent.
Dr. Ting Chen, President of the Chung Wah Association, echoed these sentiments, calling the event a special opportunity to celebrate the resumption of the flights. “This first flight will help bring our festival together and further connect our communities into the future,” he said.
The relaunch of the Guangzhou-Perth direct service is part of a broader effort by the Cook Government to revitalise WA’s international connections. Since the reopening of borders, the state has secured or relaunched direct links to 20 international destinations, helping to boost WA’s tourism industry, support trade, and foster stronger international relationships.
As the first direct flight from Guangzhou touches down in Perth, the economic and cultural benefits of this new connection are already being felt, strengthening ties between WA and China for years to come.
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