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Best BJJ Gyms in Perth: The Honest List

15 min read

Nine gyms. One sprawling city. Zero spin.

Perth's BJJ scene has grown fast. A decade ago you could count the serious academies on one hand. Today there are enough options across the metro area that choosing the right one takes real research, not just a Google Maps pin drop.

We reviewed 9 BJJ gyms across Perth, checked their websites, and verified details against 862 Google reviews. We looked at coaching credentials, class schedules, pricing (where publicly listed), competition records, and what actual members say. This is the honest list.

BJJ in Perth: what you need to know

Perth spreads wide. The 9 gyms in this guide cover the CBD, inner suburbs, southern corridor, eastern hills, and northern reaches. Most Perth residents will find at least three options within a 20-minute drive.

The coaching depth is strong. Multiple gyms employ several black belt instructors, and two trace their lineage directly to the Gracie family. One gym holds a 23-time WA team championship record. Another is the state's only dedicated no-gi specialist.

Style coverage is broad. All 9 gyms offer no-gi training. Most offer gi as well. Six run kids programmes. Four provide women-only classes. Three include striking disciplines (Muay Thai, boxing, MMA) alongside BJJ.

Pricing transparency varies. Only a handful of gyms publish rates openly. Intro offers range from free trials to a $39 three-class starter pack. Where we found pricing data, we have included it. Where we did not, we have noted that you will need to contact the gym directly.

If you are new to BJJ, our guide on how to choose a BJJ gym covers the key factors. Wondering what your first session will look like? Read what to expect at your first BJJ class.

Here are the 9 best BJJ gyms in Perth, ranked by Google rating and review count.

Kaizen Lab Jiujitsu

Best for: beginners wanting structured progression, families needing kids and adult classes under one roof, and women seeking dedicated women-only training

Kaizen Lab is Perth's most reviewed BJJ gym. With 240 Google reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating, it has built a member base that most gyms in the city cannot match in scale.

The gym runs 10 programmes across 25 weekly classes from its Claisebrook Road facility, which it describes as "one of the largest and best training spaces in Perth." Founder Brandon Chin leads a team of 12 coaches covering BJJ (gi and no-gi), MMA fundamentals, Muay Thai, boxing, and self-defence.

What stands out

The breadth of programming is the headline. Lil Ninjas classes for ages 5-6, a dedicated teens programme, women-only BJJ on Thursday evenings, competition classes on Friday mornings, and early morning sessions at 6 AM every weekday. Few Perth gyms offer this range from a single location.

The intro offer is accessible: three adult classes for $39. Kids can try a free class before committing.

The details

  • Styles: Gi, No-gi, MMA, Muay Thai, Boxing
  • Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, All-levels
  • Trial: 3 classes for $39 (adults), free trial (kids)
  • Rating: 5.0/5 from 240 Google reviews

What reviewers say

Across 240 reviews, members consistently highlight the welcoming atmosphere and structured progression system. The size of the facility and the variety of class options are recurring themes. Multiple reviewers note the supportive coaching for complete beginners.

Not ideal for

If you value knowing your coach's exact belt rank and competition lineage before signing up, Kaizen Lab does not prominently display individual instructor credentials on its website. The sheer size of the operation may also feel less personal than a smaller academy.

Explore Kaizen Lab on Open Mat BJJ

Gracie Barra Mount Lawley

Best for: women competitors, masters competitors, and families wanting a globally recognised curriculum with NDIS approval

Gracie Barra Mount Lawley is part of the largest BJJ organisation in the world, and this particular school has earned its own reputation locally. It holds the number one female team and number one masters team titles at the WA State Championships, backed by five first-place team trophies.

The coaching roster runs deep. Eight black belts teach across a structured Gracie Barra curriculum (GB1, GB2, GB3 progression), offering classes six days a week plus Sunday morning.

What stands out

Eight black belts on staff is exceptional for any Perth gym. The structured GB curriculum means your progression is mapped from day one, with clear milestones at each level.

The gym is NDIS-approved and WWCC-certified, which matters for families and individuals accessing disability services. It also runs anti-bullying programmes and school-based BJJ instruction.

The schedule covers early mornings (6 AM Tuesday to Thursday), daytime sessions, and evenings, with Saturday and Sunday classes rounding out a seven-day training week.

The details

  • Styles: Gi, No-gi
  • Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, All-levels
  • Trial: Free trial available
  • Rating: 5.0/5 from 233 Google reviews

What reviewers say

With 233 reviews at a perfect 5.0, Gracie Barra Mount Lawley is one of the highest-reviewed BJJ gyms in Western Australia. Members praise the spacious facility with two clean mat areas, the ego-free atmosphere, and the depth of coaching knowledge across all experience levels.

Not ideal for

The Gracie Barra franchise model means wearing the official GB gi and following a standardised curriculum. If you prefer an independent gym with more flexibility in training style, the franchise structure may feel restrictive. The schedule also leans more heavily toward gi training.

Explore Gracie Barra Mount Lawley on Open Mat BJJ

Bravos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Best for: competitors wanting Perth's most decorated championship team

Bravos BJJ holds a record that speaks for itself: 23-time Best Team at the Australian Federation of BJJ WA. That is not a typo. Twenty-three state team titles, plus medals at the PanPacific and World Championship levels.

Head coach Rodrigo, a Brazilian black belt certified since 2011, leads the programme from the O'Connor location. A second campus in Joondalup extends the gym's reach to Perth's northern corridor.

What stands out

The competition pedigree is unmatched in this guide. If your goal is to compete at state, national, or international level, Bravos has the coaching infrastructure and team culture to support that trajectory.

The two-location model is a practical advantage. O'Connor covers the southern suburbs while Joondalup serves the north. Both run full timetables with morning, afternoon, and evening sessions.

Members get access to exclusive online video content, which supplements in-person training with technique breakdowns you can review at home.

The details

  • Styles: Gi, No-gi
  • Levels: Beginner, All-levels
  • Trial: Free trial available
  • Rating: 5.0/5 from 128 Google reviews

What reviewers say

Across 128 reviews at 5.0, members highlight the welcoming atmosphere despite the high competition standard. Multiple reviewers note that beginners feel comfortable alongside experienced competitors. The coaching is described as encouraging and hands-on.

Not ideal for

Bravos is a pure grappling gym. If you want Muay Thai, boxing, or MMA alongside your BJJ, you will need to train elsewhere for striking. Pricing is not publicly listed, so you will need to enquire directly.

Explore Bravos BJJ on Open Mat BJJ

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Legion 13 Perth Hills

Best for: FIFO workers, defence force and emergency services personnel, and families wanting no-contract flexibility

Legion 13 takes a different approach to pricing. No lock-in contracts. No joining fees. Complimentary trials for everyone. In an industry where 12-month commitments are common, this structure is genuinely rare.

Head coach Mike Featherstone holds a 3rd Degree Black Belt with over 20 years of experience. Rebecca James, a Black Belt promoted in 2019, leads the women's and children's programmes and competes internationally. The coaching team also includes a kickboxing black belt trained in Thailand.

What stands out

The membership options are built for non-standard lifestyles. FIFO memberships accommodate fly-in-fly-out workers who are away for weeks at a time. Defence force and emergency services memberships recognise shift workers. Capped family memberships stop costs from spiralling as more family members join.

Classes run year-round with no school holiday breaks, which matters for parents relying on consistent scheduling.

The women-only programme is led by Rebecca James, one of the few female black belts teaching in Perth.

The details

  • Styles: Gi, No-gi, MMA, Muay Thai, Boxing
  • Levels: Beginner, All-levels
  • Trial: Free trial available
  • Rating: 5.0/5 from 81 Google reviews

What reviewers say

With 81 reviews at a perfect 5.0, members frequently mention the ego-free environment and family-friendly atmosphere. The no-contract structure and accessible pricing are consistent themes. Parents appreciate the year-round kids programme.

Not ideal for

Midvale is in the Perth Hills, which may be a longer commute for those in the western or southern suburbs. The gym does not have the large competition team profile of Bravos or Gracie Barra, so serious competitors looking for a deep squad may want to look elsewhere.

Explore Legion 13 on Open Mat BJJ

Essence Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Best for: families with very young children (from age 2), serious competitors wanting dedicated competition classes, and those who value coaching depth

Essence BJJ fields 12 instructors, 6 of whom are black belts. That ratio of black belt coaches to total staff is the highest in this guide. Head coach Jake O'Driscoll (1st and 2nd Degree Black Belt) leads dedicated competition classes three mornings a week, while the broader team covers kids, teens, beginners, and all-levels sessions.

The kids programme starts from age 2, which is the youngest entry point of any gym in this list.

What stands out

Six black belts across 12 instructors means you are almost always learning from a highly credentialed coach, regardless of which session you attend. The competition class runs Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 10 AM to 12 PM under Jake O'Driscoll.

Kids no-gi classes are split into ages 2-6 and 6-12, with a separate teens session. The age-appropriate grouping ensures younger children are not overwhelmed by older, larger training partners.

Sunday open mat gives members unstructured rolling time outside the regular timetable.

The details

  • Styles: Gi, No-gi
  • Levels: Beginner, All-levels
  • Trial: 2 free trial classes
  • Rating: 5.0/5 from 65 Google reviews

What reviewers say

Across 65 reviews at 5.0, the coaching quality and depth of instruction are the most common themes. Members appreciate the technical detail in classes and the supportive atmosphere for both beginners and advanced practitioners.

Not ideal for

The schedule leans heavily toward no-gi. If you are looking for a gi-focused academy, you may find fewer dedicated gi sessions than at Gracie Barra or Bravos. There is no striking or MMA offering, so this is a pure grappling gym.

Explore Essence BJJ on Open Mat BJJ

WCJJ - West Coast Jiu Jitsu

Best for: those wanting premium recovery facilities alongside training

WCJJ positions itself as a premium academy, and the facilities reflect that. A strength and conditioning gym, sauna, ice bath, and dedicated kids area sit alongside the mat space. Head coach Renan Dantas brings world-class instruction to the Osborne Park location.

The gym covers BJJ (gi and no-gi), kickboxing, and private lessons across kids, teens, and adult programmes.

What stands out

The recovery and wellness facilities set WCJJ apart from every other gym in this guide. A sauna and ice bath on-site means you can train and recover in the same visit, which is a genuine advantage for those training multiple times per week.

Early morning sessions start at 6 AM on weekdays, with afternoon and evening classes running through to 9 PM on some nights.

The details

  • Styles: Gi, No-gi, Kickboxing
  • Levels: Beginner, All-levels
  • Trial: Contact the gym to enquire
  • Rating: 5.0/5 from 36 Google reviews

What reviewers say

With 36 reviews at a perfect 5.0, members praise the facility quality and the calibre of instruction. The premium environment and professional atmosphere are recurring themes.

Not ideal for

The premium positioning suggests pricing may sit at the higher end of the Perth market. Exact membership costs are not publicly listed. The website is heavily JavaScript-dependent and difficult to navigate, which makes researching the gym online harder than it should be.

Explore WCJJ on Open Mat BJJ

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Perth

Best for: traditionalists who value direct Gracie family lineage and a heritage-focused approach

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Perth carries arguably the strongest lineage claim of any gym in this guide. Professor Aldo Lobato received his black belt directly from Royler Gracie, the fifth son of Helio Gracie, the co-founder of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. With over 30 years on the mat, Lobato brings a depth of experience rooted in the traditional Gracie method.

The gym is affiliated with Gracie Humaita and recognised by both the IBJJF and Global federations.

What stands out

The lineage is the headline. A direct line from Helio Gracie through Royler Gracie to the instructor teaching your class is something only a handful of gyms in Australia can claim.

Yoga classes are included as part of the programme, taught by Karla Goncalves (14 years of practice, trained in Bali). Judo is also integrated into the curriculum, adding a throwing and takedown dimension that most pure BJJ gyms lack.

The details

  • Styles: Gi, Judo, Yoga
  • Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
  • Trial: Free trial available
  • Rating: 5.0/5 from 29 Google reviews

What reviewers say

Across 29 reviews at 5.0, members describe a welcoming family atmosphere and deep technical instruction. The traditional approach and Aldo Lobato's knowledge are highlighted consistently.

Not ideal for

There are no no-gi classes listed on the current timetable. If no-gi is your preference, this gym will not suit. Classes run only on weekday afternoons and evenings (roughly 4 to 7:30 PM), with no morning, lunchtime, or weekend sessions. The schedule is the most limited in this guide. To understand the difference between gi and no-gi training, read our gi vs no-gi guide.

Explore Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Perth on Open Mat BJJ

Fight-Tek - BJJ and Self-Defence Training

Best for: North Fremantle locals looking for nearby self-defence training

Fight-Tek is a smaller operation in North Fremantle. With only 1 Google review and no website listed, there is limited publicly available information about class schedules, coaching credentials, or pricing.

What stands out

The North Fremantle location fills a geographic gap. If you live or work in the Fremantle area, Fight-Tek may save you a significant commute compared to the CBD or eastern suburbs options.

The details

  • Styles: Self-defence, Fitness
  • Levels: All-levels
  • Trial: Contact the gym to enquire
  • Rating: 5.0/5 from 1 Google review

What reviewers say

With only 1 review, there is not enough data to identify themes. The single review is positive, but a larger sample would be needed to draw meaningful conclusions.

Not ideal for

The lack of online presence makes it difficult to evaluate before visiting. If you prefer researching a gym's coaching credentials, timetable, and pricing online before walking in, Fight-Tek does not currently provide that information publicly.

Explore Fight-Tek on Open Mat BJJ

80/20 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Best for: no-gi purists and analytical learners who value a science-based approach to training

80/20 BJJ is Perth's only dedicated no-gi specialist. Every class is no-gi. There is no gi training on the timetable. If you know you want no-gi and nothing else, this is the only gym in Perth built entirely around that preference.

The name reflects the training philosophy. The 80/20 principle (Pareto's law) is applied to technique selection: focus on the 20% of techniques that produce 80% of results. The head instructor brings over a decade of coaching experience with a professional background in education at primary, secondary, and university levels.

What stands out

The pedagogical approach is unique. An instructor with formal education training applies structured learning principles to BJJ instruction, which benefits beginners who learn best through clear, progressive frameworks.

The facility includes 200 square metres of adult mat space with a separate upstairs matted area for kids classes. Saturday evening open mat from 7 to 8:30 PM adds an extra training opportunity that most gyms do not offer.

The details

  • Styles: No-gi only
  • Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, All-levels
  • Trial: Free trial available
  • Rating: 4.9/5 from 49 Google reviews

What reviewers say

Across 49 reviews at 4.9, members describe 80/20 as "Perth's friendliest BJJ gym." The welcoming atmosphere, science-based curriculum, and patient coaching for beginners are consistent themes. The facility quality and mat space are also praised.

Not ideal for

If you want to train in the gi, this gym does not offer it. There are no morning or lunchtime classes; all sessions run from 6 PM onwards on weekdays and from 10:30 AM on Saturdays. The Midland location is in Perth's eastern corridor, which may be a longer drive for those in the western or southern suburbs.

Explore 80/20 BJJ on Open Mat BJJ

Quick comparison

GymBest forRatingReviewsTrialStyles
Kaizen LabBeginners, families, women5.0/5240$39/3 classesGi, No-gi, MMA, Muay Thai
Gracie Barra Mt LawleyWomen competitors, masters5.0/5233FreeGi, No-gi
Bravos BJJCompetitors5.0/5128FreeGi, No-gi
Legion 13FIFO, no-contract5.0/581FreeGi, No-gi, MMA, Muay Thai
Essence BJJYoung kids (2+), coaching depth5.0/5652 free classesGi, No-gi
WCJJPremium facilities5.0/536EnquireGi, No-gi, Kickboxing
Gracie PerthGracie lineage, tradition5.0/529FreeGi, Judo
Fight-TekNorth Fremantle locals5.0/51EnquireSelf-defence
80/20 BJJNo-gi purists4.9/549FreeNo-gi only

Which Perth gym is right for you?

Your ideal gym depends on what matters most.

If you are a complete beginner: Kaizen Lab offers the smoothest on-ramp with a structured progression system, a $39 three-class intro offer, and the widest range of class times. Legion 13 is the best value option with no contracts and free trials. 80/20 BJJ suits beginners who prefer no-gi training with a methodical, education-informed teaching style.

If you want to compete: Bravos BJJ is the clear choice. A 23-time WA team championship record and coaching from a certified Brazilian black belt provide the foundation for competitive success. Gracie Barra Mount Lawley is the strongest option for women and masters competitors.

If you are a parent looking for kids classes: Essence BJJ starts from age 2 (the youngest in Perth). Kaizen Lab runs Lil Ninjas for ages 5-6. Legion 13 offers year-round kids classes with no school holiday breaks and capped family pricing. Gracie Barra provides a structured kids curriculum. For more on what BJJ offers younger students, read our guide on BJJ for kids.

If you work FIFO or shift work: Legion 13 is purpose-built for this. FIFO memberships, defence force rates, and no lock-in contracts mean you only pay for the time you can actually train.

If you value lineage and tradition: Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Perth offers direct Royler Gracie lineage through Professor Aldo Lobato (30+ years experience). Gracie Barra Mount Lawley provides the global Gracie Barra network and curriculum.

If you want no-gi only: 80/20 BJJ is Perth's only dedicated no-gi gym. Every session is no-gi, every day.

Frequently asked questions about BJJ in Perth

How much does BJJ cost in Perth?

Most Perth gyms do not publish pricing openly. Kaizen Lab offers an intro pack of 3 classes for $39. Legion 13 charges no joining fees and offers no-contract memberships. Contact individual gyms directly for current membership rates.

Which Perth gym is best for beginners?

Kaizen Lab is the strongest option for beginners. It offers a structured progression curriculum, dedicated beginner classes, a $39 intro offer, and the largest facility in Perth. 80/20 BJJ is the best beginner option for those who prefer no-gi training.

Do Perth BJJ gyms offer free trials?

Seven of the 9 gyms in this guide offer some form of trial. Bravos, Legion 13, Gracie Barra, Gracie Perth, and 80/20 offer free trials. Essence BJJ provides 2 free trial classes. Kaizen Lab offers 3 classes for $39. WCJJ and Fight-Tek require direct enquiry.

Is there no-gi BJJ in Perth?

All 9 gyms offer no-gi training in some form. 80/20 BJJ is Perth's only 100% no-gi gym. Kaizen Lab, Bravos, Legion 13, and Essence also run regular no-gi sessions alongside gi classes.

Are there kids BJJ classes in Perth?

Six of the 9 gyms offer kids programmes. Essence BJJ starts from age 2 (the youngest in Perth). Kaizen Lab offers Lil Ninjas from age 5. Legion 13 runs year-round kids classes with no school holiday breaks. Gracie Barra and Bravos also cater to children and teens.

Are there women-only BJJ classes in Perth?

Four gyms offer women-only training. Kaizen Lab runs a women-only BJJ class on Thursday evenings. Legion 13 has a women's programme led by female Black Belt Rebecca James. Gracie Barra Mount Lawley fields the number one female team in WA. Essence BJJ has female coaches on staff.

Ready to find the right gym? Explore all Perth BJJ gyms on Open Mat BJJ, or visit the gym pages above to get in touch directly.

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