Brisbane to host historic ANZAC Day rugby double-header

• The Crisafulli Government has secured another major event with the historic ANZAC Day Bledisloe Cup now to become an international rugby double-header.
• The Wallaroos will take on the Black Ferns in the O’Reilly Cup at Suncorp Stadium in 2027, joining the already announced Wallabies v All Blacks Test in a blockbuster rugby double-header.
• The Crisafulli Government is growing Queensland’s major events calendar ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, cementing the state as Australia’s events capital after a decade of decline under Labor.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering an even bigger ANZAC Day rugby spectacle for Brisbane, with the Wallaroos and Black Ferns joining the Wallabies and All Blacks for a blockbuster double-header at Suncorp Stadium in 2027.

The newly announced O'Reilly Cup clash will see the Wallaroos and Black Ferns join the first-ever ANZAC Day Bledisloe Cup, creating a world-class trans-Tasman rugby showcase.

The Wallaroos v Black Ferns match will complement the already announced Wallabies v All Blacks Test, which will be the first Bledisloe Cup match played on ANZAC Day in the rivalry's 123-year history.

The expanded fixture reinforces Queensland's reputation as Australia's home of sport and adds another major event to the state's growing calendar ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Backed by the Crisafulli Government through Destination 2045, the event will bring fans from across Australia and New Zealand to witness sporting history at Suncorp Stadium.

Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander said the addition of the Wallaroos and Black Ferns would make the inaugural ANZAC Day Bledisloe Cup even bigger.

“This is exactly the kind of major event the Crisafulli Government is delivering as we build momentum towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and strengthen Queensland’s reputation as the go to destination for major events," Minister Mander said.

"Queensland is the home of Australian sport, and an event like this deserves to be held at the best football stadium in the country, Suncorp Stadium."

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the expanded fixture was another win for Queensland’s growing major events calendar.

“The Crisafulli Government is building on an already historic occasion, bringing the Wallaroos and Black Ferns to Brisbane for a world-class rugby showcase,” Minister Powell said.

“Events like this attract visitors, support local businesses and strengthen Queensland’s reputation as Australia’s events capital.”

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Brisbane was honoured to host a double-header that would reflect the shared history of both nations.

“Anzac Day is one of the most important days for Australians and New Zealanders as we come together to honour those who served and sacrificed,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Other cities have their own Anzac Day sporting traditions, but bringing the Wallabies, Wallaroos, All Blacks and Black Ferns together at Suncorp Stadium makes Brisbane’s double-header a truly special occasion that reflects the bond at the heart of the Anzac spirit.

“We look forward to welcoming supporters from both sides of the Tasman for a weekend they will never forget in Australia’s lifestyle capital.”

Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said in partnership with their friends at New Zealand Rugby, Rugby Australia was profoundly honoured to bring together the Wallaroos, Black Ferns, Wallabies and All Blacks on the day both nations unite to reflect on our shared heritage and values.

“In the rich 123-year history of trans-Tasman rugby, there has been no more meaningful occasion than this. a historic Bledisloe and O’Reilly Cup double-header will connect our countries, inspire our people and strengthen the bonds forged on the shores of Gallipoli on the first Anzac Day," Mr Waugh said. 

“A fixture of this significance will draw fans from far and wide to Brisbane and be keenly watched by many millions of viewers around the world as the players of today honour the heroes of the past on a day that means so much to so many.”

RSL Queensland CEO Robert Skoda said ANZAC Day was a time when Australians and New Zealanders unite to honour the courage, sacrifice and mateship of all who have served our nation. 

“We know that Australia and New Zealand have one of sport’s fiercest rivalries, but it’s grounded in deep respect. That mirrors our shared ANZAC history – standing side by side in service.

“Whether in battle or competition, looking out for one another and standing together under pressure is central to both countries. When the final whistle blows, the rivalry fades, but the shared history remains.

“Sporting events on ANZAC Day – like the Bledisloe Cup, remind us that some bonds are bigger than wins and losses, these games provide a powerful platform to pause and honour all who have served in our Defence Force.”

Tickets for the ANZAC Day rugby showcase are on sale now.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:

Minister Mander: Lachlan Bird, 0438 639 836

Minister Powell: Ruth McCosker, 0406 331 114