Sunshine Coast hosts first women’s ANZAC Day fixture

The Wallaroos will host New Zealand for an historic Test match on Anzac Day, uniting our countries on a day of shared reflection and remembrance.

Sunshine Coast Stadium will host the evening Test between the Wallaroos and the Black Ferns as part of the Pacific Four series, the first played between the two sides on Anzac Day.

The historic match will be the first of two O’Reilly Cup Tests against New Zealand and one of 10 Tests for the Wallaroos in 2026.

That schedule will feature the team’s first ever tour of the USA as well as tours of the UK and Europe as part of the new WXV Global Series.

Australia’s rivalry with New Zealand in women’s rugby first began in 1994 for the inaugural Test match between the two nations.

Since then both sides have played each other on 29 occasions, including three matches at a Rugby World Cup.

Rugby Australia Chief Executive Phil Waugh, said the eternal bond between Australia and New Zealand was forged on the first Anzac Day.

"More than neighbours, we are family, with shared values and ideals that have only strengthened through the years," Mr Waugh said.

"We are therefore honoured to welcome the Black Ferns to our shores this Anzac Day for a first-of-its-kind Test match between our two great nations at Sunshine Coast Stadium.

"Rugby has a unique ability to unite and inspire communities and this Test match will go a step further, bringing together two countries on a day of reflection and gratitude for the service, sacrifice and spirit behind the Anzac legacy."

Mayor Rosanna Natoli said Sunshine Coast Council, in partnership with the State Government and Rugby Australia, was proud to bring another world-class event to our region.

"This partnership reflects Council’s commitment to growing women’s sport and delivering major events for locals and visitors alike," Mayor Natoli said.

"Anzac Day is a time for reflection and unity, and hosting this historic fixture is a wonderful way to honour the spirit of mateship, courage and respect that defines our region and nation.

"We hope that welcoming the Wallaroos and Black Ferns will not only showcase elite women’s rugby but also inspire the next generation of players and create lasting memories for our sport loving community.

"I know many, like me, are looking forward to cheering on their team – Go Wallaroos!”

Queensland Minister for Sport Tim Mander, said elite sporting events on Anzac Day were a special tradition, and it’s appropriate that this huge game was hosted in Queensland, the sport capital of Australia.

"The Wallaroos taking on New Zealand on the Sunshine Coast will see this tradition continue with two nations that embody the Anzac spirit, guaranteeing a must-see clash," Mr Mander said.

"We want young Queenslanders to be inspired by world-class athletes in our own backyard, and its events like these that are crucial in the lead up to 2032."

Queensland Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell, said an Anzac Day clash between Australia and New Zealand was a historic milestone.

"This meaningful match not only displays the power of Queensland events, it drives an economic boost for the Sunshine Coast as fans dine, stay and explore the region, from the beach right up into the spectacular hinterland," Mr Powell said.

"The commemorative rugby match is anticipated to attract more than 7,500 spectators and see approximately $2.27 million injected back into the state."

New Zealand Rugby General Manager of Professional Rugby and Performance Chris Lendrum, said the O’Reilly Cup rivalry between New Zealand and Australia already carries a deep, historic significance.

"To mark it by playing on Anzac Day adds an extra special element to the occasion women’s rugby fans will be excited by," Mr Lendrum said. 

"We can't wait to see fans get behind the Black Ferns in 2026 like they did during last year's World Cup, by showing their support in-stadia and watching live on TV from back home."

Tickets for the Test match on Anzac Day are now on sale via Ticketek starting from $20 for adults and $50 for families.

WALLAROOS 2026 TEST SCHEDULE
• March 27: Wallaroos v Fijiana at GIO Stadium, Canberra - 4:55pm AEDT (Vuvale Bowl)
• April 11: Canada v Wallaroos, USA (Pacific Four series)
• April 17: USA v Wallaroos, USA (Pacific Four series)
• April 25: Wallaroos v New Zealand at Sunshine Coast Stadium - 7:45pm AEST (Pacific Four series/O’Reilly Cup)
• August 22: New Zealand v Wallaroos at Go Media Stadium, Auckland (O’Reilly Cup)

WXV Global Series
• September 12: WXV Global series away Test - TBC
• September 19: WXV Global series away Test - TBC
• September 26: WXV Global series away Test - TBC
• October 10: Wallaroos v Scotland home Test – TBC
• October 17: Wallaroos v Scotland home Test – TBC