Rugby Australia and Queensland Government Lock In Multi-Year International Test Rugby Pipeline for Townsville

Rugby Australia and the Queensland Government have announced a multi-year partnership securing a golden era of international Test rugby for North Queensland, establishing Townsville as a premier global sports and tourism hub through 2030.

Under the agreement, Queensland Country Bank Stadium will host Wallabies Test matches against Argentina in 2027 and 2030, and Georgia in 2029. These fixtures complement Townsville’s upcoming hosting of four matches at the Rugby World Cup next year, alongside a broader commitment ensuring the Queensland Reds play at least one regional match each season for the next six years and Brisbane hosts the Springboks in 2028.

Highlighting the profound importance of investing in regional communities, Rugby Australia CEO, Phil Waugh, said: “Since our first Test match 127 years ago, regional Queenslanders have proudly represented Australia on the international stage.”

“It is therefore extremely pleasing to be bringing more Test matches than ever before to one of world rugby’s greatest talent nurseries with the valued support of our partners in the Queensland Government.”

“Following the success of last year’s The Rugby Championship Test against Argentina, and excitement high for Saturday’s clash with Japan, Rugby Australia is delighted to confirm three additional Wallabies Test matches for Townsville in 2027 (Argentina), 2029 (Georgia) and 2030 (Argentina),” Waugh said.

State government leaders emphasised the deliberate economic strategy behind securing high-profile fixtures.

Queensland Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Hon. Tim Mander, underscored the community and economic rationale.

“We want Queensland to be the home of sport and the events capital of Australia and that’s why we’re bringing the best of sport to all Queenslanders.”

“We also know when kids see the best players first-hand, they are inspired to get out and want to play the game,” Mander stated.

Tourism Minister, Hon. Andrew Powell, noted the broader financial benefits for regional enterprises.

“These international rugby fixtures strengthen Queensland’s position as the events capital of Australia, attracting visitors, filling hotels, supporting local businesses, and driving economic activity across the region,” Powell affirmed.

The commercial and tourism implications are extensive, designed to deliver a sustained economic uplift, fill local accommodation providers, and drive grassroots participation across regional talent nurseries.

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