NRLW Introduces Magic Round to Boost Regional Economies

The National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW) competition is aiming to replicate the success of the men’s Magic Round, today announcing their first Magic Round commencing in 2025.

The inaugural NRLW Magic Round will be hosted at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium, featuring all 12 teams competing over a two-day event. This development follows a three-year agreement between the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) and the New South Wales Government, ensuring that regional NSW locations will host the event through 2027.

ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys highlighted the strategic importance of this expansion, stating, “The Commission is invested in women’s Rugby League, and NRLW Magic Round is the next important step in the growth of the game.” This move aligns with the broader objective of enhancing women’s participation in rugby league and providing regional communities with premier sporting events.

The economic impact of the men’s Magic Round underscores the potential benefits for regional hosts. For instance, the 2024 Magic Round in Brisbane attracted a record attendance of 149,196 fans over three days, surpassing the previous year’s figure of 147,105. This surge in attendance translated into substantial economic gains, with local businesses experiencing significant increases in patronage. Notably, restaurants, pubs, and hotels in the Suncorp Stadium precinct reported a 33% increase in spending compared to a regular weekend, amounting to $17.4 million.

The NRLW Magic Round is expected to deliver similar economic benefits to Newcastle and other regional centres in subsequent years. The influx of fans is anticipated to boost local businesses, including hospitality and accommodation sectors, and promote regional tourism. Additionally, the event will provide a platform to showcase regional NSW as a vibrant destination for major sporting events.

The expansion of the NRLW competition to 12 teams, with the inclusion of the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and the return of the New Zealand Warriors, reflects the growing interest and investment in women’s rugby league. The introduction of the Magic Round is poised to further elevate the profile of the NRLW, offering fans a concentrated showcase of elite women’s rugby league and fostering greater engagement with the sport.

The NRLW Magic Round represents a strategic initiative to enhance the visibility of women’s rugby league while delivering tangible economic benefits to regional communities. By leveraging the proven success of the men’s Magic Round, this event is set to become a cornerstone of the NRLW calendar, driving growth and engagement in the sport across Australia.

Join the free Ministry of Sport newsletter or become a MoS Member for all the latest news in sports business.