Queensland opens the door to NRL Grand Finals

An NRL Grand Final would bring up to 40,000 interstate visitors and inject more than $30 million to our economy, Major Events Minister Kate Jones said today.

Ms Jones said the Palaszczuk Government has begun talks with the NRL to secure 2018 and 2019 Grand Finals in Queensland.

“Queenslanders love rugby league and our fans deserve to see finals on our home turf,” Ms Jones said.

“We know Queensland has the best stadium, the most loyal fans and the best teams in the NRL.

“That’s why we will be fighting hard to secure one if not two finals here in Queensland.”

Ms Jones said Tourism and Events Queensland would lead the negotiations to ensure the best outcome for Queensland fans.

“Queensland has a long and enduring relationship with the NRL,” she said.

“We have secured regional fixtures, the Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars and next month’s double-header at Suncorp is set to be a sell-out.

“TEQ are also in negotiations to secure the best games in 2017 Rugby League World Cup games in Queensland.

“We know a Grand Final would attract up to 40,000 visitors from interstate and inject more than $30 million in our economy.”

Treasurer and Minister for Sport Curtis Pitt said while securing grand finals would be good news for league fans, the Government was determined to capitalise on the potential economic spin-offs.

"We won't be pursuing this just to deliver sporting spectacles or just to gain short-term boosts in terms of visitors and tourists," Mr Pitt said.

"We will be doing all we can to ensure there are permanent benefits for Queensland.

"The corporate interest and involvement in major sports like NRL grand finals presents a golden opportunity to leverage the exposure they offer into a platform to entice business and industry and new jobs to our State by promoting our economic strengths, our lifestyle, and our human and natural resources.

"I have had discussions with senior NRL officials and have told them we are interested in pursuing this opportunity and that Queensland has a great product in terms of our teams and we have a great facility in Suncorp Stadium.

"We see it as a chance to showcase our State and its attractions, not only as a tourism destination but also as the best place in Australia to live, work and do business," Mr Pitt said.

Media: Matt Jutsum 0408 998 940