In the winter of 1921, weekly concerts by a Perth Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Harold Betteridge and led by Lionel Hart, were advertised in the local newspaper, but the life of this group was brief.

In 1928, many professional musicians who had supported the silent movies found themselves out of work, and under the direction of Harold Newton, formed the Perth Symphony Orchestra.

The Perth Symphony Orchestra, conducted by George Reid, was giving regular concerts in His Majesty's Theatre.

Since corporatising, the orchestra has diversified its performances, expanding on its summer outdoor season and taking music to many parts of the community.

WASO principal conductors have included Henry Krips (1948–1971), Tibor Paul (1971–1973), David Measham (1974–1981), and Jorge Mester[1] (1991–1994).

In 1975, he instigated the inaugural indoor season of three Promenade Concerts, modelled after The Proms, as part of the Perth International Arts Festival.

[5] In November 2010, the WASO announced the extension of Daniel's contract as principal conductor through December 2013,[6] at which time his tenure concluded.

In May 2012, WASO announced the appointment of Asher Fisch as its newest principal conductor, effective 1 January 2014, with an initial contract of three years.