Suburb Profile - Westminster

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Westminster is the newest locality in the City of Stirling. At the request of residents, Council renamed the southern portion of Balga in 1994. It was called "Westminster" after the original estate in the area. Between 1936 and 1955 a limestone road named "Westminster Boulevard" passed through the suburbs which were then known as Nollamara and Westminster Estate. The latter was subdivided prior to World War II, though development of the area remained limited up to the late 1940's as it was perceived to be relatively isolated. Most of the land at that time was used for market gardening and poultry farms. Due to the extensive jarrah and banksia woodlands, timber cutting was also popular in the earlier days of the colony. The Westminster area was resumed, along with the surrounding suburbs, and Westminster was developed to capacity by 1970.

Westminster is characterised by single residential developments, many of which are timber-framed houses constructed by the State Housing Commission. From the 1960's, private owners began to build brick dwellings on small to medium sized blocks. These are particularly evident in the north west of Westminster. Unit developments have also been popular in the area, with most being built between 1960 and 1970. The eastern portion of Westminster is characterised by modern dwellings which were constructed from the mid 1970's until the present.

The largest shopping centre in Westminster is Stirling Central, located to the north west of the suburb. It contains specialty stores as well as providing for the daily needs of residents. The area is home to public and private primary schools and also contains a number of recreational areas. These include Matt Williams Reserve, Galluccio Reserve and Ted Cross Memorial Reserve.

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