Queensland Government Announces Major Events Line-Up for Queensland Day 2026

The Queensland Government has announced a blockbuster schedule of elite sporting fixtures to headline Queensland Day 2026, confirming a statewide cross-code celebration involving the NRL, AFL and Netball.

Following what Premier Steven Miles described as a “massive year” of sporting success and investment, the initiative forms part of the government’s broader plan to elevate Queensland Day into a marquee annual event.

Premier Miles thanked the AFL, NRL and Netball organisations for backing the concept, noting their collaboration has been crucial in turning the government’s vision into a major calendar moment.

He said Queensland Day was designed to showcase the state’s pride, identity and love for live sport, adding that few themes resonate more strongly with Queenslanders than elite football.

“We love our sport in Queensland, what better way to celebrate being a proud Queenslander than watching your favourite footy team go, you good thing,” he said. 

Under the new celebration framework, fans will have access to a full slate of major matches across the state.

At Suncorp Stadium, the Brisbane Broncos will host the Gold Coast Titans, while North Queensland will see the Cowboys face the Dolphins in Townsville.

Netball will also take centre stage, with the Queensland Firebirds meeting the Sunshine Coast Lightning in Brisbane.

In the AFL, the Brisbane Lions will take on the Gold Coast Suns at the Gabba, adding an interstate-quality derby to the day’s program.

The government expects the multi-code celebration to deliver strong community engagement and stimulate local economies through attendance, tourism and associated spending.

The initiative also strengthens Queensland’s positioning as a high-performance sporting state leading into the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

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