The Gold Coast continues to build on its growing reputation as a destination of choice for major women’s sporting events, securing the hosting rights to one of the biggest games on the National Rugby League (NRL) calendar.
For the first time, Game Three of the 2026 Women's State of Origin Series will play out on Maroons’ home soil at Cbus Super Stadium in Robina on Thursday 28 May 2026.
More than 20,000 fans are expected to pack the stands, with the game reaching more than one million broadcast viewers nationwide.
This will be the Gold Coast’s first State of Origin fixture since hosting the relocated 2021 men’s Game Three due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The announcement adds to what’s shaping up as a landmark year for women’s sport on the Gold Coast. The Women’s State of Origin joins a powerhouse calendar of global sporting events including the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 and the city’s inaugural Women’s PGA Championship both taking place on the Gold Coast in March.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the blockbuster match was another proud moment for the city’s growing reputation as a global sporting destination.
“It doesn’t get any bigger than State of Origin rivalry and our city will be in the thick of it in 2026,’’ said Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.
“Hosting a blockbuster Game Three between the NSW women’s team and our mighty Maroons is a huge coup for the city. Women’s NRL is on the rise, and I expect a sell-out crowd, especially if Game Three is the series decider. It’ll be showtime on the Gold Coast so let’s get behind these incredible league stars.’’
Experience Gold Coast worked closely with Stadiums Queensland and the NRL to secure the first-of-its-kind event for the city and are hoping to attract more headline NRL events to the city in the future.
Minister for Sport Tim Mander said the Gold Coast game was a testament to the code’s development.
“Securing Game Three of the Women’s State of Origin is a major win for the Gold Coast, and hopefully the mighty Queensland Maroons will deliver another strong performance in front of a record crowd, showcasing the very best of the code.”
“This is not only great news for local fans, but a testament to the growth and development of women’s rugby league, inspiring the next generation of athletes and expanding opportunities across the sport.”
Cbus Super Stadium Venue General Manager Kristian Blundell said the stadium was primed for the big event.
“This year we’ve hosted passionate crowds at five NRLW events, and 24 Queensland Girls Rugby League State Championship matches, and we’re looking forward to kicking it up a notch with Origin, when state pride is on the line,” said Kristian Blundell
“Game Three is sure to create lots of excitement and we’re hoping the recreate some of the iconic Origin hype generated when we hosted the men’s game in 2021.”