- 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup matches officially announced in Brisbane and Townsville.
- Brisbane to host 10 matches including quarterfinals, with another four matches to be played in north Queensland.
- World-class rugby matches secured as part of the Crisafulli Government's tourism plan, Destination 2045, cementing Queensland as the events capital of the nation.
The Crisafulli Government has delivered on its promise of show-stopping events in Queensland, proudly announcing the match schedule for the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup.
Eager fans will feast on once-in-a-generation thrills as England take on Tonga, launching the cup in the Sunshine State.
Brisbane will host the highly-anticipated Wallabies match against Chile and welcome six of the top 10 men's rugby nations, with unmissable match ups including Argentina v Canada; France v Japan; South Africa v Georgia; and Scotland v Portugal.
Townsville is set to host world‑class rugby with the World Cup's local kick‑off featuring Georgia v Romania, followed by Chile v Hong Kong China, Tonga v Zimbabwe and Spain v Canada.
The 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup features an expanded 24-team competition, played across seven Australian cities over six weeks.
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the match schedule highlighted the success of the Destination 2045 tourism plan in securing world class events.
"We are continuing to cement Queensland as Australia's event capital in the lead‑up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games," Minister Powell said.
"The tournament will bring the world's best rugby nations to Brisbane and Townsville, and showcase Queensland on the global stage.
"These fixtures are expected to generate an estimated $212 million in economic benefit for the state.
"That investment will support tourism, local businesses and jobs across accommodation, hospitality and transport."
Minister for Sport Tim Mander said having the best rugby players in the world competing in Queensland would have a flow-on effect right across the state.
"Queensland is the sporting capital of Australia and when we host the big events, we know it inspires more young Queenslanders to get out and be active," Minister Mander said.
"We have a history of producing wonderful athletes, and seeing the best players on the planet going toe-to-toe in our own backyard will enable us to continue that tradition.
"The Rugby World Cup also allows us a fantastic opportunity to showcase two cities that will feature heavily in the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and I know, like William Webb Ellis, we will pick up that opportunity and run with it."
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the release of the official match schedule was an exciting step towards Brisbane hosting the Men's Rugby World Cup 2027.
"Now the schedule is locked in, we can really start counting down and looking forward to an amazing experience both on and off the field," Cr Schrinner said.
"As Australia's lifestyle capital, we know how to put on unforgettable major events that fire up fans and support local jobs.
"With iconic venues like Suncorp Stadium and a strong track record hosting major events, Brisbane is ready to deliver a world-class tournament in 2027."
Townsville City Council Mayor Nick Dametto said the events would put a spotlight on the region.
"We're looking forward to welcoming the Men's Rugby World Cup 2027 to Townsville, placing our city on the global sporting stage and showcasing North Queensland to the world," Cr Dametto said.
"Playing these matches in regional Queensland is so important, ensuring communities outside capital cities share in the benefits of major international events.
"As well as creating unforgettable experiences for local fans, the Rugby World Cup will inspire young people across North Queensland and leave a lasting legacy for our community long after the tournament concludes."
Townsville Enterprise Major Events Acquisition Director Chelsea Cavanah said the Cup would be a rare opportunity.
"The Men's Rugby World Cup 2027 in Townsville is expected to generate millions of dollars in economic impact for Townsville North Queensland and will firmly position our city on the global stage through extensive international broadcast exposure," Ms Cavanah said.
"It's no secret that Townsville loves its sport, and there is nothing quite like the energy and excitement that comes with hosting a major international event.
"With rugby ranked among the world's largest sporting codes, the opportunities for our region are significant.
"Hosting this event is a strong endorsement of Townsville's continued growth as a regional destination that consistently delivers world-class events."
