Another significant economic boom is on the way for the Gold Coast, after the city secured the World Archery Para Championships in 2027.
More than 300 athletes from more than 50 countries will compete at the Gold Coast Performance Centre from 30 August to 6 September 2027, battling for world titles and qualification opportunities for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.
The event was secured by Archery Australia through the Queensland government’s Mega and Strategic Events Fund, as the state builds momentum towards Brisbane 2032.
It’s the first time the event has ever been held in Australia.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the event was another major win for the Gold Coast, delivering a boost for tourism, local businesses, and the local visitor economy.
“The world is increasingly bypassing Sydney and Melbourne and looking to Queensland as the destination for major international sport, and securing the World Archery Para Championships is another significant coup for our state,” Minister Powell said.
“For the first time, Australia will host this prestigious championship, bringing more than 300 athletes from over 50 countries to the Gold Coast and generating valuable tourism and economic benefits for local businesses.
“As we build towards Brisbane 2032, we’re attracting world-class events that showcase Queensland to a global audience and create lasting opportunities for our communities.”
Minister for Sport and the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said securing the event highlighted Queensland’s growing reputation as the home of Australian sport.
“Today’s announcement is a fitting way to mark six years to go until the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with Queensland securing another world-class event that strengthens our reputation as the home of Australian sport,” Minister Mander said.
“The World Archery Para Championships will bring the world’s best para-athletes to the Gold Coast and provide Queenslanders with the opportunity to experience international competition at the highest level, while further strengthening Queensland’s ambition to be a world leader in para-sport.”
Archery Australia CEO Peter Bromley said securing the championships was a major milestone for the sport.
“Winning the right to host the 2027 World Archery Para Championships on the Gold Coast is a significant achievement for archery in Australia and a testament to Queensland’s reputation as a world-class host of international sporting events,” Mr Bromley said.
“We look forward to welcoming the global para-archery community to the Gold Coast and delivering a championship that celebrates sporting excellence, inclusion and the Paralympic spirit.”
World Archery President Greg Easton said the championships would be an important moment for para archery internationally.
“We are excited to be bringing the World Archery Para Championships to Australia for the first time,” Mr Easton said.
“Queensland has the experience and ambition to deliver an outstanding event, showcase our sport to new audiences, and build momentum towards LA28 and Brisbane 2032.”
Para archer Tom Holland said he was excited for the event as part of the buildup to the 2032 Paralympic Games in Brisbane.
“I believe the event will provide a great foundation for para-archery in Australia,” Mr Holland said.
“As the qualification event for LA28, a home championship with a home crowd and big team will allow us to establish our position ahead of LA 28 before continuing this momentum and continue to grow into Brisbane 2032.”
