Perth, the capital of Western Australia, carries a name steeped in historical and cultural significance. The city’s name was chosen in honor of Sir George Murray, a Member of Parliament for Perthshire and the British Secretary of State for War and the Colonies. Captain James Stirling officially proclaimed the colony's foundation on June 18, 1829, in Fremantle, stating in his decree: "Given under my hand and Seal at Perth this 18th Day of June 1829."

The origin of the name is also documented in Charles Fremantle’s diary entry from August 12, 1829, which confirms that the town was named "Perth" at Sir George Murray’s request. This connection to Scotland underlines the city’s colonial ties and its place within the British Empire’s expansion.

Complementing this historical narrative is the recognition of the Aboriginal name Boorloo. Since 2019, Boorloo has been acknowledged as the traditional Noongar name for Perth’s central business district, its local government area, and the city as a whole. The name was first documented in 1833 by Robert Menli Lyon, who interpreted Boorloo to refer to Point Fraser in East Perth.

The meaning of Boorloo remains subject to interpretation. While some sources link it to "river," others suggest it describes the "big swamp" where Perth's central business district and Northbridge now stand. This area historically consisted of a chain of wetlands, integral to the Whadjuk Noongar people’s way of life for tens of thousands of years.

Perth’s dual nomenclature—honoring both its Scottish heritage and its Aboriginal roots—reflects a city that embraces its complex history and cultural diversity.