Perth, Australia Named Presumptive Host of Gay Games XIII in 2030

The Federation of Gay Games (FGG) is proud to announce that Perth, Australia has been named the presumptive host city for Gay Games XIII in 2030. Perth is set to become the second city in Oceania to host the world’s largest inclusive sporting and cultural event.

Two cities, Denver USA and Perth Australia, have been bidding to host the Games in 2030 for the last 20 months in a process which has included extensive “bid books” outlining every facet of the Games they aim to host, as well as site inspections and thorough team Q&As.

“I’m so inspired and thankful for the work on behalf of both bid cities to expand the global LGBTQ+ sporting and cultural movement.  I am excited by the opportunity to reconnect with new communities across Oceania and Asia, following Gay Games Hong Kong, and build on the legacy of Sydney, one of the most well-attended iterations of the Games in 2002.”

The final vote comes at the end of the FGG’s Annual General Assembly where bid teams were invited to present their final pitch, answer questions and meet with FGG delegates and board members in person.  A vote was then taken from FGG board members and delegates, and the winner was announced at the Palau de l'Exposició in València - host city to the upcoming Gay Games XII 2026

The team from Perth are delighted with the result, which now implies several years of hard work and preparation, as well as annual site visits from the FGG and regular meetings to discuss progress.

“Perth is so incredibly honoured to be named the presumptive host for Gay Games XIII 2030. This is for our LGBTQIA+ community who have worked tirelessly to support this bid. We can’t wait to bring the world to Perth in 2030”, says Laurie Butterly, co-chair of the Perth bid team.  

The runner-up bid team - Denver, USA - put forward an impressive bid, offering hubs in various parts of the city and wider metropolitan area.  However ultimately their bid did not make the selection.  The team are welcome to reapply for Gay Games 2034 if they wish, and the FGG would like to thank them for their hard work and commitment to the bid process. 

The Federation of Gay Games will now move forward with formal contract negotiations with the Perth Organizing Committee. Once finalized, Perth will join the ranks of iconic host cities including San Francisco, Paris, Hong Kong, Guadalajara, and València (host of Gay Games XII in 2026).