Perth, where Italians from humble fishermen become brilliant entrepreneurs
Arriving in the late 19th century as miners and farmers, our immigrants have left a deep mark on the economic and cultural growth of the city. And today they represent one of the largest communities of the Italian diaspora
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Key points
3' min read
There is a remote, bright city, overlooking the Indian Ocean, where the days seem endless and the sunsets paint the sky copper and gold. It is Perth, capital of Western Australia, known as the City of Light for its clear skies and sunny spirit. But it is also a place that harboursone of the country's most vibrant and long-lived Italian communities, protagonists of a silent but decisive transformation: from seasonal workers and miners to entrepreneurs, artists and innovators.
A deep identity, a lasting contribution
.According to the census of 2021, more than 1.1 million Australians identify themselves, in whole or in part, with Italian ancestry, or 4.4% of the population. Italy represents the second most common origin among immigrants who arrived in Australia between 1949 and 2000. And Perth, with almost 19,000 residents born in Italy, is one of the cities where the Italian presence is strongest and most visible.
The origins of this community date well before the post-war migration boom.Italians began arriving as early as the 19th century, often artisans or peasants fleeing economic crises or Austrian repression in northern Italy. Some settled in the countryside, others worked in inland mines or fishing along the coasts of Western Australia. By 1901, the Italians represented an almost invisible but already well-established minority in the timber, fishing and agricultural sectors. Their reputation was that of tireless, frugal and resilient workers, qualities that made them invaluable in a harsh land but full of opportunity.
From war trauma to migration boom
During World War II, many Italians living in Australia were interned as 'enemy aliens', especially in states such as Queensland and Western Australia. But the war itself marked a turning point. The personal relationships built on the farms and in the labour camps created a more favourable climate. Thus, with the Populate or Perish programme launched by the Australian government after the war, Italian immigration resumed strongly.
In the 1950s and 1960s, tens of thousands of Italians arrived with assistance and family reunification programmes. Initially fishermen and farmers, they became entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, builders. Their influence spread to the markets, shipyards, vineyards of the Swan Valley and the urban fabric of Perth itself, contributing to the city's development in every sector.
