Perry started out his first-grade rugby league career with Western Suburbs in 1999 and played in the club's last ever game as a first grade side which was a 60–16 loss against the Auckland Warriors at Campbelltown Stadium.[2]
He then played for the Queensland Cup team Redcliffe Dolphins, winning their player of the year award in 2002 and also captaining the side in 2005.
Perry was then brought into the Brisbane Broncos camp/squad to provide cover during the State of Origin period where the Broncos are traditionally hit hardest with extra playing duties and/or injuries. Perry became the number one halfback, when team-mate Brett Seymour had his contract with the club terminated for disciplinary reasons. Perry's ability to complement captain Darren Lockyer on-field relieved some pressure from the captain. Perry's form continued to improve and he played at half-back in the Broncos' 2006 NRL Grand Final victory.