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Updated June 30, 2026 — 12:17pm,first published 11:43am
Queenslanders will be able to watch the Socceroos’ weekend knockout World Cup clash against Egypt at pubs and community clubs under a trial of temporary licence changes by the state government.
Licensed pubs and clubs across the state will be allowed to trade between 3am and 7am on Saturday for the match – only the third time the men’s national team have made the do-or-die stages.
“There’s nothing like coming together with a crowd to cheer on the Socceroos, and we want Queenslanders to be part of that atmosphere,” Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said.
“It’s a targeted measure that keeps the focus exactly where it should be – on the game, the fans and a great community atmosphere.”
Under the trial, licensed pubs and clubs will be able to apply to the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation for the extended trading hours for the primary purpose of broadcasting the game.
Other licensing laws and requirements, including responsible service of alcohol, will apply. Venues will need to be free from outstanding licence fees, payments and ongoing enforcement action.
Queensland Hotels Association chief executive Bernie Hogan last week said rules restricting venues from catering to such events needed modernisation.
The state government on Monday announced it had secured the Socceroos’ World Cup homecoming series, with two friendly matches against Brazil in Townsville and Brisbane in September.
Both national teams will also take part in community events and activities including public training sessions, fan and local club engagement programs, the government said.
Premier David Crisafulli has pushed to turn Queensland into “Australia’s events capital”, with a new six-year deal on Sunday to bring Anzac Day trans-Tasman rugby union Tests to Brisbane from next year, before the Australian-hosted Men’s Rugby World Cup.
The city, south-east Queensland and other regional centres will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032.
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