- Perth to host its first Rugby League World Cup 2026 matches at HBF Park
- Western Australia to stage four Rugby League World Cup matches across the tournament, comprising two men's and two women's games
- Events play a significant role in the Cook Labor Government's economic diversification strategy, boosting the tourism sector and supporting local jobs for Western Australians
Perth will welcome rugby league fans from across Australia and around the world this weekend as the city's first Rugby League World Cup 2026 matches get underway.
Western Australia will host two double-headers at HBF Park across Rounds 1 and 2 of the competition, featuring teams from Australia, England, Wales, Tonga, and France.
Select teams travelling to Perth will also be hosted by local rugby league clubs, creating opportunities for the WA community to connect with some of the game's biggest stars.
Hosted across Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea, the Rugby League World Cup 2026 will bring together some of the world's leading rugby league nations in a celebration of sport, culture, and community.
Held every four years, the tournament features 10 men's teams, eight women's teams, and eight wheelchair teams.
The Cup is expected to provide a valuable boost for local accommodation providers, restaurants, cafes, and tourism operators while showcasing Perth and Western Australia to a global audience.
Securing blockbuster events such as the Rugby League World Cup is part of the Cook Labor Government's economic diversification strategy, helping grow the tourism sector and support local jobs for Western Australians.
For more information, visit www.rlwc2026.com .
As stated by Premier and Tourism, Trade and Investment Minister Roger Cook:
"Major sporting events like the Rugby League World Cup help drive visitation, support local jobs for Western Australians, and create lasting economic benefits for our State.
"Hosting these matches provides a great opportunity to showcase Perth to a global audience and highlight why WA continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading destination for major events.
"It's fantastic to welcome players, officials, and fans to Perth for the Rugby League World Cup 2026, building excitement around the sport ahead of the debut of the Perth Bears next year.
"I look forward to seeing HBF Park come alive with passionate rugby league fans and showing visitors from around Australia and overseas what Perth and Western Australia has to offer."
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Hosting Rugby League World Cup matches in Perth is a fantastic opportunity for Western Australia, bringing some of the world's best players to our city and giving local fans the chance to experience the excitement firsthand.
"With both men's and women's matches at HBF Park, young Western Australians will have the chance to see their sporting heroes up close and be inspired to get involved in the game.
"Local clubs hosting visiting teams will help strengthen the connection with grassroots rugby league, creating memorable experiences for players, families, and volunteers."
