- Perth Stadium hosting opening Men’s Test match of the Australia v New Zealand Series from 9-13 December 2026
- West Test Festival to add vibrancy and a packed calendar of fan experiences
- Events form part of the Cook Labor Government’s economic diversification strategy, supporting local jobs and tourism
With just 50 days to go until the 2026 NRMA Insurance Men’s West Test, Western Australia is preparing to welcome cricket fans from around the world for a blockbuster summer of international cricket.
Perth will host the Men’s West Test between Australia and New Zealand from 9-13 December 2026, marking the opening Test match of Australia’s summer cricket season and New Zealand’s first Test match in Western Australia in almost seven years.
With thousands of cricket fans expected to travel to Western Australia for the five-day fixture, the West Test represents a significant opportunity to drive visitation, support local jobs for Western Australians, and showcase the State to a national and international audience.
The West Test will again be supported by a four-day fan festival featuring an exciting range of interactive cricket experiences, family friendly activities, DJs, and roving entertainment designed to enhance the vibrant atmosphere around Perth Stadium.
The fixture forms part of Western Australia’s major events strategy, which leverages high-profile events to attract visitors, generate economic activity, and create memorable experiences for visitors and locals.
The match and festival come as direct aviation links between Western Australia and New Zealand continue to expand, with Jetstar’s new seasonal Christchurch to Perth service commencing on 27 October and Air New Zealand launching its Christchurch to Perth seasonal route on 30 November.
Tickets and more information are available at cricket.com.au/tickets
Comments attributed to Premier and Tourism, Trade and Investment Minister Roger Cook:
“The countdown is on for what will be one of Western Australia’s biggest events this summer, with just 50 days remaining until the opening Test of the series.
“The Men’s West Test is a fantastic opportunity to attract visitors to our State, showcase Perth to a national and international audience to inspire future visitation, and highlight why Western Australia is a world-class major event destination.
“Major events like the West Test play an important role in my government’s economic diversification strategy by supporting local businesses, creating local jobs, and driving visitation across our tourism industry.”
Comments attributed to Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti:
“Western Australians are in for another massive summer of cricket both on and off the pitch when the West Test returns to Optus Stadium this December.
“Hosting international Test cricket in Perth is not only a chance to see the world’s best players in action but is inspiring the next generation of young cricketers to develop their skills by participating in community sport.
“The Cook Labor Government is committed to cementing Western Australia’s reputation as a world-class destination for major sporting events so we can continue to bring visitors and vibrancy to our State and boost our economy.”
