- The Crisafulli Government is delivering more major sporting events across Queensland, with three additional Men's Rugby international fixtures locked in for Townsville.
- The Queensland Reds will play at least one match per season in regional Queensland for the next six seasons.
- The pipeline for rugby games in Townsville is major boost for North Queensland tourism, jobs and the local economy.
- The Crisafulli Government is strengthening Queensland's reputation as the events capital and home of sport in Australia.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering more international rugby for North Queensland, securing three Wallabies tests at Queensland Country Bank Stadium through to 2030.
The partnership between the Crisafulli Government, Queensland Rugby Union and Rugby Australia will see Queensland take centre stage on the international Rugby calendar with fixtures including:
2027 - Australia v Argentina – Townsville (The Rugby Championship)
2028 - Australia v South Africa – Brisbane (The Rugby Championship)
2029 - Australia v Georgia – Townsville
2030 - Australia v Argentina – Townsville (The Rugby Championship)
The matches are in addition to the four pool matches locked in for the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup in Townsville, providing North Queensland fans with seven men's international Rugby fixtures between 2027 and 2030.
The Queensland Reds will also play at least one match per season in regional Queensland for the next six seasons.
The expanded focus on the regions will bring world-class Rugby closer to local communities, creating new opportunities for fans to see some of the best players in the world while also giving local economies a boost.
It follows the announcement of the first-ever ANZAC Day Bledisloe Tests being locked in until 2031 in Queensland.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said more international fixtures in Townsville will strengthen Rugby in Queensland.
"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," Minister Mander said.
"We also know when kids see the best players first-hand, they are inspired to get out and want to play the game.
"The additional international games from both the Wallabies, as well as more Reds games played in regional Queensland, will increase participation for grassroots clubs across the state and ensure all eyes remain on Queensland."
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said securing more major events was a key commitment of the Crisafulli Government, and one it is continuing to deliver for Queenslanders.
"We said we would deliver more events for Queensland, and that's exactly what we are doing, with another major international sporting partnership locked in for North Queensland," Minister Powell said.
"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."
Assistant Minister for North Queensland and Member for Mundingburra Janelle Poole said international Rugby should be for all Queenslanders to enjoy.
"Queensland Country Bank Stadium is a world-class facility, and North Queenslanders deserve to be hosting world-class matches," Ms Poole said.
"These fixtures will give fans a front row seat to watch the best in action while delivering economic benefits for local businesses, tourism operators and the wider community."
Member for Townsville Adam Baillie said the fixtures would inspire more Townsville kids to get in the game.
"This is a huge win for Rugby in North Queensland and will give the next generation of players the chance to see their heroes in action on their home turf," Mr Baillie said.
"The announcement today reinforces Townsville's position as the sporting and events capital of the north and will provide even more inspiration for boys and girls to pick up a ball, join a club and become part of the game."
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said he was thrilled to bring more events to North Queensland.
"Since our first Test match 127 years ago, regional Queenslanders have proudly represented Australia on the international stage," Mr Waugh said.
"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.
"On behalf of everyone at Rugby Australia, I extend my thanks to Premier David Crisafulli and the Queensland Government for their ongoing support of Australian Rugby from major events to the community game.
Queensland Rugby Union CEO David Hanham said more Reds games in regional Queensland will see more talent identified.
"We are delighted to have worked with the State Government and Rugby Australia, who are providing a wonderful schedule of seven Test matches for Townsville through until 2030," Mr Hanham said.
"The Queensland Reds love playing across regional Queensland and today, we are pleased to announce the Reds will play a game in regional Queensland each season through 2032."
