The East Perth Cemetery was first mentioned in 1829 in records of colonial secretary Peter Broun. It was originally much larger than it is today but development has reduced its size. The last burial here was in 1919, but family vaults have been used since then.

Less than 800 marked graves and a few family vaults remain. The identity of many hundreds has been lost through neglect and the encroachment of the adjacent school grounds.

Guided tours can be arranged by appointment at a nominal fee.