Queensland is preparing for a busy September as the Socceroos’ homecoming series against Brazil attracts strong demand from travelling supporters, with new figures showing more than half of ticket holders will journey from outside the host regions.
More than 90 per cent of tickets have already been sold for the two-match series, which will see Australia face five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville on 25 September before the second fixture at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on 29 September.
According to the Queensland Government, 57 per cent of ticket holders across both matches are travelling from outside the host local government areas. In Brisbane, around six in ten fans are coming from beyond the city, while almost half of those attending the Townsville match are travelling from elsewhere.
The figures point to a wider economic impact beyond the stadiums, with accommodation providers, restaurants, cafes and tourism operators expected to benefit from the influx of visitors.
The Crisafulli Government secured the exclusive Australian hosting rights for Brazil’s September tour and says the matches align with its Destination 2045 tourism strategy, which aims to attract major events capable of boosting visitor numbers and supporting employment across Queensland.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said major sporting events continued to generate benefits for communities across the state.
“When we bring world-class events to Queensland, we bring the fans with them and that’s great news for local businesses, local jobs and local communities,” Mr Powell said.
He said many visitors would extend their stay by booking accommodation, dining locally and visiting attractions, creating extra spending across host destinations.
Mr Powell said the response to ticket sales reflected strong public interest in seeing the Socceroos take on Brazil and encouraged supporters to secure the remaining tickets before the series sells out.
Townsville MP Adam Baillie said hosting one of the matches highlighted the city’s growing reputation for staging major sporting events.
He said the fixture would give regional Queensland the opportunity to host international football while welcoming visitors from across Australia and overseas.
Football Australia chief executive Martin Kugeler said the series would mark the first opportunity for Australian supporters to welcome home the CommBank Socceroos following their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.
He said the matches would provide valuable preparation for coach Tony Popovic’s squad ahead of the AFC Asian Cup 2027, which begins less than four months later.
Mr Kugeler said demand for tickets had been strong and expected the fixtures to inspire young footballers while giving supporters the chance to watch one of the world’s most recognised national teams in action.
The September series will include public training sessions, fan engagement activities and local club programs alongside the two internationals, extending community involvement beyond match days.
Limited tickets remain available for both fixtures through the official Queensland Football Series website.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
