Historic Anzac Day Test confirmed with Wallaroos to host Black Ferns

Sunshine Coast Stadium will host a historic evening Anzac Day Test between the Wallaroos and Black Ferns on April 25, bringing Australia and New Zealand together on a shared day of remembrance in a first-of-its-kind fixture.

Rugby Australia announced the fixture on Thursday, which will be the first Anzac Day match played between the two sides. This Test will be part of the Pacific Four Series and the first of two O’Reilly Cup clashes in 2026.

Australia and New Zealand share a women’s rugby rivalry that dates back to 1994, which included two entertaining fixtures before last year’s Rugby World Cup. The Wallaroos made the quarter-finals at the showpiece event, while the Black Ferns secured a third-place finish.

This landmark Anzac Day fixture is one of the Wallaroos’ 10 Tests in 2026, which includes the team’s first-ever tour of the USA. The Wallaroos will also visit UK and Europe as part of the new WXV Global Series.

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

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

“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.”

Queensland Minister for Sport, Tim Mander, added: “Elite sporting events on Anzac Day are a special tradition, and it’s appropriate that this huge game is 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.

“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.”

The Wallaroos start their 2026 international campaign against Fijiana at Canberra’s GIO Stadium on March 27 before the Pacific Four Series gets underway. Australia will face Canada, the USA and then the New Zealanders on the Sunshine Coast in the pursuit of that title.

Auckland’s Go Media Stadium will host the second O’Reilly Cup match on August 22, followed by the WXV 2 Global Series from September 12. The Wallaroos will play three WXV 2 away Tests before rounding out their season with two matches at home against Scotland.

“An Anzac Day clash between Australia and New Zealand is a historic milestone,” Queensland Minister for Tourism, Andrew Powell, said.

“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.

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

“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,” Sunshine Coast Mayor, Rosanna Natoli, explained.

“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!”

New Zealand Rugby General Manager of Professional Rugby and Performance, Chris Lendrum, added: “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 an occasion women’s rugby fans will already be excited by.

“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.”