RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP STRENGTHENING PERTH’S POSITION AS A KEY SPORTING EVENT DESTINATION

The Australian Hotels Association (WA) is excited by the announcement today from the WA Government of Perth securing yet another blockbuster international sporting event.

The Rugby Championship showdown between the Wallabies and South Africa’s Springboks will be held at the award-winning Optus Stadium on Saturday, 17 August 2024.

AHA(WA) CEO Bradley Woods said thousands of out-of-state visitors and Western Australians are anticipated to converge at Optus Stadium, with even more fans watching on from around the globe.

Mr Woods said “This epic event between Australia and South Africa follows the inaugural direct flights between Perth and Johannesburg in April.”

“The flights will support more than 39,000 additional inbound travellers from South Africa to WA each year, we hope many Springbok fans make the trip to WA to watch the showdown at our award-winning stadium.”

“Events like these can each inject tens-of-millions of dollars into the WA economy through spending on accommodation, hospitality, travel and retail.”

“This event serves as another fantastic opportunity to present Western Australia on a global stage, with the Rugby Championship primed to capture widespread media attention, spotlighting our state as a dynamic hub for sports.”

“Crucially, this major event promises substantial economic benefits for Western Australian businesses, with millions of dollars expected to flow into our local tourism and hospitality sectors.”

The Australian Hotels Association commends the WA Government on its dedication to further grow WA’s status and legacy as a world-class destination for international sporting events.