International Events and Sports in Perth

• First of four Matildas matches held in Western Australia kicks off
• Four-match series include first ever Matildas fixture in regional WA
• Events form important part of Cook Government's efforts to diversify the economy and support tourism and local jobs

Western Australia is buzzing with excitement as the beloved Matildas return to action in Perth for four thrilling international matches, kicking off tomorrow night at HBF Park.

The Matildas are set to face Slovenia and Panama in a four-match series, including a historic first visit to regional WA, where they'll take on Panama at the newly upgraded Hands Oval in Bunbury next week.

Supported by the Cook Government, through Tourism WA, fans will have the opportunity to experience premium women's football in WA across four exciting matches:

• Thursday, 26 June - Matildas vs Slovenia (HBF Park, Perth);
• Sunday, 29 June - Matildas vs Slovenia (HBF Park, Perth);
• Saturday, 5 July - Matildas vs Panama (Hands Oval, Bunbury); and
• Tuesday, 8 July - Matildas vs Panama (HBF Park, Perth).

Attracting The Matildas back to Western Australia is just another example of tourism and major events form a key part of the State's efforts to diversify the economy and create local jobs

The Matildas' Bunbury match follows the recent success of the North Melbourne Kangaroos and West Coast Eagles game at Hands Oval, where it was estimated half the attendees travelled from outside the South West region to watch the event.

The Matildas kicked goals both on and off the pitch during their last visit to Perth in 2023 for the Paris 2024 AFC Women's Olympic Qualifiers, with the games injecting $4 million into the local economy and breaking attendance records for a women's sporting event when they played the Philippines at Optus Stadium.

The Matildas' international series marks a pivotal moment for the Tillies and their fans, serving as the final opportunity to see the team in action before they return to Perth for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026.

The AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 will be kick off at Optus Stadium next March, where WA will proudly host the tournament's official opening ceremony and the Matildas' opening match.

Final tickets are on sale for the international series at www.matildas.com.au

Comments attributed to Tourism Minister Reece Whitby:

"Football fever is at an all-time high with the countdown on to the Matildas' kick-off, especially ahead of their first visit to regional WA.

"Not only will local fans and out-of-state visitors get to experience the world-class facilities of HBF Park, but they'll also be encouraged to venture further afield to explore the iconic offerings of WA's South West.

"This four-match series builds on the Cook Government's focus on delivering a year-round events calendar continuing to drive visitation into Western Australia.

"Hosting an international series like these Matildas matches, places Western Australia squarely on the global stage as a renowned host of sporting events and brings great value to our State's economy by supporting tourism and hospitality businesses."

Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti:

"It's brilliant to have the Matildas back in Western Australia, and for the first time playing a massive game at Hands Oval in Bunbury.

"We want more people around our State to be able to experience high-level sport that showcases some of the best athletes the world has to offer.

"These games also drive increased visitation to our State, helping boost the economy and drive jobs."