Four companies are in the running to take up the reins of Perth's $1 billion stadium at Burswood. The first concrete slab poured last week, according to WAtoday.com.au.

Nationwide Venue Management, AEG Ogden, Perth Stadium Management and Stadium Australia Operations were all short-listed by the WA government on Tuesday. Premier Colin Barnett also said the 60,000-seat stadium "was progressing well" and was on schedule to open for the start of the 2018 AFL season.

"The state government received responses from a number of highly credentialed venue operators from around the world and I thank all of those who responded," he said.

Sports Minister Mia Davies said the operator would be responsible for the day-to-day management of the stadium.

"And will play a leading role in delivering the 'fans first' experience and attracting high quality sporting and entertainment events," she said.

"The operator is expected to employ a number of full-time staff plus more than 1,500 casuals to fulfil a year-round calendar of activities and events."

© Western Australian Government

When complete, the stadium will feature more than 1000 TV screens, 600 bike racks, two giant screens and 70 food and beverage outlets.

About 85 per cent of the seating will be undercover and all seats will have cup holders.

The first pile for the stadium was driven into the dirt in December and the first concrete slab poured last week.