The premier looks set to get his wish for more rugby league games, with WA expected to host three National Rugby League fixtures next year, on top of Game II of the State of Origin.
WAtoday and 9News Perth understand the NRL will announce a standalone match and a double header at HBF Park when it releases the 2025 draw.
Isaiya Katoa of the Dolphins passes the ball away during the round 22 NRL match between Dolphins and Sydney Roosters at HBF Park in August.Credit: James Worsfold/Getty Images
Just one match was played in Perth in 2024, when 20,000 turned out to watch the Sydney Roosters defeat the Dolphins 40-34.
When asked on Monday if he would like more games brought to Perth, WA Premier Roger Cook said he “always wants more”.
“I always want to see the NRL come to Western Australia. We know NRL fans love to travel, and they come to the games over here, spend their money in the pubs, the clubs and the hotels, and it’s a boost to our great tourism industry,” Cook said.
“Of course, as a ‘leaguer’ myself, I love seeing the game in Western Australia, but we know that when we bring things like State of Origin to WA, all eyes of the world are on WA.
“Globally, it’s recognised as one of the great grudge matches of modern sport.”
It was revealed on Sunday that Optus Stadium would host Game II of State of Origin on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
The premier is travelling to Sydney this week and is expected to meet with NRL powerbrokers to discuss a new NRL team based in Perth from 2027 or 2028.
“I’ve had government officials meet with the NRL to consider the issues and the dimensions of negotiations,” Cook said on Sunday.
“The conversations are going forward.”
Progress was stalled when the Western Bears bid, led by Peter Cumins, spectacularly unravelled over a decision not to offer a license fee, at a time when head office was seeking a figure of approximately $20 million.
NRL figures, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of discussions, told 9News Perth and WAtoday Perth was still considered “strategically” the best option for the game as the consortium revised its deal.
Tickets to State of Origin are on sale to the public from Friday.
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.