National Rugby League Double-Header for Perth next year
Western Australia will host two National Rugby League (NRL) matches in a one-day sporting spectacular next year as part of the NRL's 2023 calendar of events.
- Two back-to-back NRL matches to be played in Perth next year
- Single day spectacle to be played at award-winning Optus Stadium
- Weekend of sport to drive interstate visitation and boost economy
Western Australia will host two National Rugby League (NRL) matches in a one-day sporting spectacular next year as part of the NRL's 2023 calendar of events.
Perth's NRL Double Header will kick off on 5 August 2023, with both games to be played back-to-back at the award-winning Optus Stadium.
As part of their inaugural season, Queensland's Dolphins will take on the Newcastle Knights before the South Sydney Rabbitohs face the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the same day. Fans will buy one ticket to watch both games.
This NRL special event is supported by the WA Government, through Tourism WA.
The Double Header is expected to drive thousands of interstate visitors to WA, with travellers to inject millions into the State's economy through spending in hospitality and tourism businesses.
Next year's matches continue WA's strong relationship with the NRL.
This year the sold out 2022 State of Origin match between the NSW Blues and Queensland Maroons saw nearly 7,000 out-of-state visitors travel to WA for the match, injecting more than $13.3 million into the economy.
The McGowan Government recently formed a cross-agency working group to investigate the development of a third-party bid for an 18th NRL team.
For more information on the Double Header and 2023 NRL calendar visit nrl.com
Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Roger Cook:
"There is huge support for the NRL in Western Australia - and it keeps getting bigger every year.
"The atmosphere at the State of Origin this year was absolutely electric.
"What we are also seeing is east coast sports fans will travel to WA to watch matches.
"It's a fantastic boost for local tourism and hospitality businesses because the fans spend several days in WA enjoying themselves.
"The WA Government is proud to support large-scale sporting contests to motivate visitors to travel to Western Australia and not only experience a world-class event, but then get out and explore our beautiful State."
Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman:
"This is going to be a fantastic double header for NRL fans in WA.
"The McGowan Government is committed to developing the sport here in Western Australia and has thrown its support behind a third party bid for a State-based team.
"Events such as this will help further grow the game at the grass roots level, ensuring a healthy future for the code."
