A 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia would pump $2.5 billion into the economy and attract 200,000 tourists, the tournament bid team says.
Australia formally launches its bid to host the RWC in Sydney today with a high powered team that includes former Prime Minister John Howard and International Olympic Committee Vice President John Coates.
After Argentina withdrew from the race last year, Russia is the only other country to formally register interest in hosting the 2027 tournament but there are question marks over the legitimacy of that bid.
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Russia is banned from bidding on major sporting events until the end of 2022 following a Court of Arbitration for Sport punishment for systemic doping.
World Rugby is scheduled to announce the 2027 host in May next year.
"Hosting Rugby World Cup 2027 is a once in a generation opportunity for Australia, which would drive substantial economic outcomes for our country, while also providing a lasting legacy for rugby in this region," Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan said.
"Australia is a sports loving nation with a vast network of world class modern stadia. We have a proud rugby heritage in this country and are also home to ex-pats from across the globe who love to get out and support their teams when they tour."
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Australia hosted the 2003 RWC and co-hosted the inaugural 1987 tournament with New Zealand.
France is hosting the 2023 tournament and it is tipped to return to the southern hemisphere in 2027.
"Hosting Rugby World Cup 2027 would be a significant moment for Australia on the world stage," bid advisory board chairman Sir Rod Eddington said.
"This event is a beacon to the business community and tourists around the world. We cannot underestimate the significance hosting this tournament would have for Australia's economy.
"The 2027 event is projected to attract more than two million attendees across seven weeks of competition, including 200,000 international visitors, and generate $2.5 billion in direct and indirect expenditure to the economy, while also creating 13,300 FTE jobs and stimulating $500 million in new trade and investment.
"This is a moment for all Australia to celebrate as we put or best foot forward and say to the world, it is time for rugby's showpiece event to return to Australian shores in 2027."
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