St John’s Pro-Cathedral 🇦🇺

Located at 18 Victoria Avenue in Perth, St John's Pro-Cathedral offers you a fascinating look into Western Australia’s heritage as the region's earliest Roman Catholic church building. First established in 1844 on a land grant claimed by Father John Brady, this landmark served as the primary center of Catholic life for the Swan River Colony until St Mary’s Cathedral opened in 1865. Over time, the structure transitioned into a school and chapel before undergoing careful restoration between 1979 and 1980 to serve as a church museum.

As you explore, you will admire its distinctive ochre-painted, lime-rendered brick walls, shingle-covered gable roof, and regular buttresses framing arched windows fitted with clear glass and wooden mullions. Take note of the reconstructed western brick portico and the eastern lean-to extension, which features an arched northern entry door and square, four-paned windows. Inside, you can even view the historic chair that Bishop John Brady brought over from Europe.

Recognized by the National Trust and the State Register of Heritage Places, this historic site provides a meaningful glimpse into early religious pioneer history, making it a peaceful, spiritually significant stop during your travels through Perth.

What to see at St John's Pro-Cathedral

• Discover the earliest Roman Catholic church building constructed in Western Australia.
• View the historic European chair brought to Perth by Bishop John Brady.
• Observe the ochre-painted brick exterior, shingled gable roof, and arched windows.
• Examine architectural features like the reconstructed western portico and eastern lean-to.

Visiting tips

Look closely at the western facade to admire the reconstructed brick portico and four arched windows positioned around it.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

St John's Pro-Cathedral is easy to reach on Perth’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Art Gallery of Western Australia and Western Australian Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Perth travel guide.