Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas has jumped at the opportunity to poach the now-cancelled 2026 Commonwealth Games for Perth, saying we’re not too far away form having the capacity to host it.

The Victorian Government has pulled out of the event due to what has been labelled a $6 billion cost blowout.

Premier Roger Cook said WA won’t be offering to host, a decision Mr Zempilas said was a wasted opportunity.

“For the Western Australian State Government not even to enter into a conversation, I think is a massive missed opportunity,” Mr Zempilas said.

Press PLAY to hear more about Basil’s case for Perth’s Commonwealth Games

Image:  Daniel Carson/AFL Media/Getty Images/Commonwealth Games Australia