The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company have signed an agreement for the development of The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, heralding the much-anticipated return of the luxury hotel operator to Australia.

The ground-breaking for The Ritz-Carlton, Perth is expected during 2015.

The project will also encompass ground floor retail space, waterfront fine dining experiences, and luxury one, two and three bedroom apartments.

Commenting on this landmark return, Ritz-Carlton president Herve Humler said: “We are delighted to make our return to Australia, bringing our legendary services to Perth.

“We have listened to our guests who have a strong desire to stay with us when the travel to this beautiful destination in Western Australia.

“We have great partners in Far East Consortium and look forward to opening this incredible hotel in 2018.”

Working closely with the Western Australian Government and the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority, Far East Consortium will build the 204-room Ritz-Carlton, in addition to residential apartments in the heart of the riverside Elizabeth Quay development on Perth’s waterfront.

The Ritz-Carlton, Perth will be the first international luxury hotel in the city, bringing its service culture, with luxurious accommodations and experiences to Western Australia.

Its commanding waterfront position features a sweeping view over the Swan River, and the nearby attractions of Kings Park and the Botanical Garden.

Located in the commercial and business district adjacent to the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, Elizabeth Quay is the centre-piece of Perth’s drive to reinforce its position as an international and contemporary destination for the global affluent traveller.

When completed, the project will also feature 1.5 kilometres of continuous promenades to create a destination experience that will attract an estimated four million visitors a year.

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia and is recognized by the Economist Intelligence Unit as the 9th most livable city in the world.

It enjoys a reputation as Australia’s sunniest city and tourism arrivals are robust as the state enjoys seven million overnight visitors a year.

The Ritz-Carlton is the fastest growing global luxury hotel operator in Asia-Pacific and with the signing of Perth, will officially double its presence to 44 hotels and resorts in the region by 2018.