NSW Commits 10M to Rugby World Cup 2027 Legacy Program

The NSW Government has confirmed it will invest AUD 10 million into a legacy program tied to the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.

Running from 2025 to 2028, the program will be jointly delivered by Rugby Australia, Rugby NSW and the ACT & Southern NSW Rugby Union, with funds distributed across infrastructure, participation, and workforce initiatives.

The design centres on five focus areas: facilities and equipment, priority regional pathways, workforce development, inclusion programs, and tournament-related activations.

What is in for Rugby Investors?

The investment reflects an intent to use a major event to drive structural growth. While headline tournaments often attract short-term attention, the key question is how effectively legacy funds are deployed across grassroots and community systems.

By earmarking support for Western Sydney, the Hunter, South Coast and Riverina, the program also aligns with broader state policy to strengthen sport participation outside metropolitan centres.

Framing the funding as a commitment to ensure the tournament leaves a legacy for the sport at all levels, from grassroots to elite, Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, said that The emphasis on inclusivity—covering women and girls, First Nations, Pasifika, disability and Pride communities—points to rugby’s attempt to broaden its base and embed safeguarding standards.

Commercial Perspective

The initiative may also help shore up rugby’s participation pipeline ahead of an expanded 24-team World Cup format.

Noting how the investment provides backing, Rugby Australia CEO, Phil Waugh, added: “that will live on long after the final whistle sounds.”

Event organisers are additionally promoting accessibility in ticket pricing, with more than one million tickets under $100 and children’s tickets starting at $20. This strategy could support community engagement but will also test revenue models for major events in Australia.

With 17 matches scheduled in NSW, the program will act as both a participation driver and a test case for how effectively government-backed legacy initiatives can translate global tournaments into sustainable domestic outcomes.

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