WESTERN Australia’s five port authorities will combine to offer start-ups an opportunity to pitch ideas for port safety, efficiency and security.
The opportunity will be part of this year’s West Tech Fest which will be moving to Fremantle, complementing what a state government media release said was “the port city's thriving innovation ecosystem and showcasing its unique culture to a national and international audience”.
Kimberley Ports Authority, Pilbara Ports, Mid West Ports, Fremantle Ports and Southern Ports will run a "Port Pitch" event providing the opportunity for startups to pitch ideas that could improve port efficiency, safety, or security.
Since its establishment 15 years ago, West Tech Fest has become a flagship event for the state's innovation sector, attracting more than 5000 attendees annually, including national and international founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders.
The media release said it provided opportunities for the local startup and tech community to connect with and hear from global leaders as they shared insights into how to grow a successful business.
The WA state government will support West Tech Fest with new $1.1 million funding over four years through its New Industries and Innovation Fund to support the continued growth of West Tech Fest which it said is Australia’s biggest innovation festival.
West Tech Fest will run from 7-11 December at various venues around Fremantle.
One in five participants comes from outside WA and in 2025, 35% of attendees were startup founders. The top three industries participants operate in are technology, education, and government.
“Every year, West Tech Fest shines a spotlight on local talent globally and brings together an influential mix of international founders, investors, CEOs, and tech visionaries,” the release said.
Science minister Stephen Dawson said the state’s funding would ensure the festival could continue to put WA innovation on display
"West Tech Fest offers a uniquely WA tailored experience and provides a fantastic opportunity for founders, investors, and corporate attendees,” Mr Dawson said.
"Western Australia has a rapidly growing innovation sector, and the Cook Labor Government is committed to supporting programs such as West Tech Fest which connect our businesses with global opportunities.
"By investing in our innovation ecosystem with events like West Tech Fest, we help create new job opportunities that arise from emerging industries and startups here in WA."
Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk said moving West Tech Fest to Fremantle would provide the opportunity for local startups to connect with tech founders and investors from around the world.
"By investing in our innovation ecosystem with events like West Tech Fest, we are helping to create new job opportunities from emerging industries and startups here in Western Australia," Ms McGurk said.