Street Scams in Perth, Australia
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Perth — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Nadi, Melbourne, and Sydney.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
2
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in Perth
How it works
On the Hay Street pedestrian mall in central Perth, individuals carrying clipboards approach tourists and ask them to sign a petition for a charitable cause such as wildlife conservation or children's welfare. Once you engage and sign, a second person or the same individual immediately pressures you to make a cash donation or — increasingly — to enter your bank card details into a handheld EFTPOS terminal for a "direct debit." The charities named are either fictitious or have no relationship with the people collecting. Victims who enter card details have reported unauthorised recurring charges appearing within days.
How it works
Scammers in Fremantle Market, Perth's CBD, and Northbridge nightlife area use the classic spill technique — bumping into tourists or spraying something on them — while an accomplice steals from their bag or pocket during the cleanup distraction.
See all scams in Perth
10 total warnings across all categories