With less than a year until kick-off, Home Affairs has published dedicated guidance for international supporters planning to attend the Rugby League World Cup in October 2027. Fans are advised to apply early for Visitor-600 or Electronic Travel Authority visas and to carry proof of match tickets to streamline border processing. The department notes that applicants from visa-waiver countries should still download the Australian ETA app, while others may benefit from the new ‘fast-track’ visitor option if they have held a Visitor-600 in the past five years. Group-travel organisers can lodge bulk applications but must provide a list of passport details that matches ticket allocations. Event organisers estimate the tournament could attract 150,000 overseas spectators, adding up to A$500 million to the visitor economy. Airports in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne are preparing special lanes and multilingual signage to cope with peak arrival days. Security screening will be heightened, with Border Force planning additional canine units for baggage inspections. Travellers should familiarise themselves with Australia’s strict biosecurity rules, particularly concerning sporting paraphernalia such as muddy boots. Corporates sponsoring hospitality programmes should lock in visa sponsorship letters and accommodation blocks before January 2027, when processing volumes are expected to surge.
Source: Department of Home Affairs
