Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB has been the spiritual leader of the Archdiocese of Perth since 2012. A Salesian priest with a passion for pastoral care and education, he is committed to guiding the Catholic community with compassion and wisdom. As Archbishop, he strives to inspire faith, foster unity, and support the mission of the Church throughout Western Australia.
The Parish
Our parish community is a diverse and welcoming group centered around faith, worship, and service. As the heart of the Catholic Archdiocese, it brings together people from all walks of life for regular Masses, sacraments, and spiritual programs. The community is actively involved in outreach, charitable work, and cultural events, fostering a strong sense of connection and support. Through prayer, education, and social initiatives, St Mary’s Cathedral parish continues to be a vibrant and inclusive spiritual home for many.
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Most Rev Timothy Costelloe SDB
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Fr Sean Fernandez
Fr. Sean Fernandez, Dean and Administrator of St Mary’s Cathedral, brings a wealth of pastoral and academic experience to his ministry. Ordained in 1994, he has served in various parishes and holds a doctorate in theology. Deeply inspired by Ignatian spirituality, Fr. Sean is committed to guiding the Cathedral community in faith, service, and spiritual growth.
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Fr Kenneth Acosta
Fr. Kenneth Acosta, from the Neocatechumenal Way, serves the Cathedral with a passion for evangelisation and pastoral care. His dedication to nurturing the faith journey of parishioners is evident in his warm and thoughtful approach to ministry.
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Fr Richard Smith
Fr. Richard Smith has been part of the St Mary’s community since his diaconal ordination in 2002. Ordained as a Catholic priest in 2003, he brings a wealth of pastoral experience and serves as Chaplain to the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem in Western Australia. With a deep commitment to ministry, he is honoured to journey alongside the faithful at the Cathedral.
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Fr Jason Yeap
Fr. Jason Yeap, newly ordained in 2024 from St Charles Seminary, brings energy and enthusiasm to his ministry. As a local priest, he is committed to serving the parish and fostering faith within the community, including leading the Cathedral Young Adults group.
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Victor Hoa
Victor Hoa, Cathedral Manager, oversees the day-to-day operations and administration of St Mary’s Cathedral. With extensive experience and a dedication to excellence, Victor ensures the smooth functioning of the Cathedral, supporting its mission as a vibrant centre of worship and community.
PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
Safeguarding
St Mary’s Cathedral Parish acknowledges that safeguarding is a shared responsibility prioritising the care, protection and best interests of children and adults at risk.
By providing a safe environment, actively identifying and managing risk, and complying with the Safeguarding policy, guidelines and legal obligations, we serve Jesus and uphold human dignity as the foundation of our faith. We aim for our parish to be safe, welcoming, and inclusive.
Our
History
St Mary’s Cathedral in Perth, Western Australia, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Its construction began in the 1860s, evolving over time with various expansions and renovations. The cathedral blends historic and modern architectural elements, reflecting its growth alongside the city. After a major restoration in the early 2000s, it was officially reopened in 2009. Today, St Mary’s Cathedral remains a prominent place of worship and a significant landmark in Perth.
1863
On 8 February 1863, Bishop Salvado laid the foundation stone of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary on a reserve of land known as Victoria Square. Fr Martin Griver, later Bishop of Perth, was responsible for the building. The architect and master mason was Joseph Ascione.
1865
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary was blessed and opened on 29 January 1865.
1926
Bishop Patrick Clune CSsR, first Archbishop of Perth, set out to build a new Cathedral, the foundation stone of which was laid on 25 April 1926.
The building was designed by Mr MF Cavanagh, architect, in the English style of Perpendicular Gothic. The builders chosen for the work were AT Brine and Sons. The main building stone was limestone. A Sydney firm, Melocco Brothers, made the sanctuary mosaics based on designs taken from the ancient Irish Book of Kells. All stained glass windows were designed and executed by the firm of John Hardman of Birmingham, England.
1930
The Cathedral was opened at the height of the “Great Depression” on 4 May 1930.
The original plan envisaged the present apse and transepts with a nave extending towards Murray Street. The intention was to finish it in Gothic style. Due to the events of the Depression, World War Two and its aftermath, no funds were ever available for this undertaking. For years, the iron bars stood out ready to link the two parts of the Cathedral.
1973
In 1973, Archbishop Sir Launcelot Goody, third Archbishop of Perth, decided to bring the sanctuary area into line with the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council. The central altar and lectern were added to the sanctuary. The redesigned sanctuary was consecrated on 12 August 1973.
2006
In 2003, Archbishop Barry James Hickey initiated an architectural competition to unify and complete St Mary’s Cathedral. The winning design was by local architect Peter M. Quinn, whose vision seamlessly blended modern and historical elements.
By 2006, the Cathedral was closed for construction, and St Joachim’s Church in Victoria Park served as the Pro-Cathedral during this period. The redevelopment included extensive renovations—introducing an open sanctuary, an undercroft with parish facilities, a choir rehearsal space, and a crypt.
2009
On 8 December 2009, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St Mary’s Cathedral was officially reopened. The renovations successfully preserved the Cathedral’s historic charm while incorporating modern architectural elements, including curved glass walls that contrast beautifully with the original masonry.
The project’s outstanding design was recognised with The George Temple Poole Award, the highest accolade from the Institute of Architects WA. Today, St Mary’s stands as a symbol of unity—honouring the past while embracing the future.