Wallets out for the Blues and Maroons this year as Aussies are tipped to spend $1.1 billion on State of Origin

• Origin fans are set to spend an average of $408 per person when viewing the games live in stadiums, equating to a total of $612 million nationwide
• Queensland boosting their spend by $30 million compared to last year, while New South Wales supporters are tightening their belts (down $16 million from 2024)
• One third (33%) of Aussie workers are likely to “chuck a sickie” the following day if their team wins the Series –with QLD fans (14%) more than twice as likely than NSW fans (6%) to say they are already planning their excuse

As the State of Origin series kicks off, new research from ING reveals that while Aussies are spending big on it this year – over $1.1 billion nationwide – they’re also spending with purpose, and in some cases, planning their sick days accordingly.

When looking at the approximate total spend by state, Queensland fans are turning up the heat this Origin season – boosting their spending by $30 million compared to last year (from $183 million to $213 million). Meanwhile, New South Wales supporters are tightening their belts, with spending down $16 million from 2024 (from $461 million to $446 million).

Compared to last year, more Aussies are heading out to watch the Origin live in the stadiums, contributing to an overall spend increase of $42 million; but despite this, the way fans are choosing to celebrate varies widely by state and setting:

1. Game day splurge: Fans at the stadium spend a national average of $408, with New South Wales fans willing to shell out an average of $388, while Queenslanders are willing to spend $431.
2. Home turf budget: When watching from home or a mate’s place, the average spend is $43 – with New South Wales outspending Queensland ($43 vs $37), and nearly twice as many New South Wales fans dropping over $100.
3. Pub and club tab: At venues like pubs, leagues clubs and RSLs, fans spend just under $100 on average – but Queenslanders, despite being known for their passion, are proving to be the most frugal at the bar, spending just $80 on average at a venue.

But it’s not just about the dollars – it’s about the dedication. Over one-third of Australians (33%) are likely to take the day off after the series decider, with Queensland being twice as likely (14%) than New South Wales fans (6%) to say they are already planning their excuse.

These findings build on recent research into the broader cost of being a sports fan in Australia, which revealed that Aussies spend over $19 billion annually on their fandom, with 1.3 million admitting to having taken a sick day to watch a major match.

Matt Bowen, Head of Consumer and Market Insights at ING Australia, comments on the report findings: 

“State of Origin is more than a game – it’s a cultural moment. Whether it’s spending at the pub, the travel to the game, or the cheeky sickie the next day, it’s clear Aussies are showing up in every way that counts.”

“However, cheering on your team with friends and family doesn’t need to cost the earth. One way to reduce the cost, if you’re hosting a gathering, is to theme it Blue or Maroon and get your guests to bring a plate of that coloured food to share. It’s good fun, and shares the cost around. Some blue cheese on an antipasti board, or Beetroot crisps are the perfect accompaniment to a drink.”

“And as the Series unfolds, all eyes will be on the scoreboard – but the real story might just be in the stands, the lounges and the Thursday morning sick calls.”

Matt’s tips to cheer on your team whilst on a budget:

1. Buy in bulk, ahead of time. If you’re planning to host friends and family to mark the occasion, stock up on drinks, snacks, and BBQ essentials during supermarket specials or catalogue sales in the weeks leading up to the game.
2. Buy tickets early (or last minute). Early bird tickets often come with discounts. Alternatively, check resale platforms closer to game day – prices can drop if sellers are trying to offload extras – but if you’re going down this route, make sure you’re keeping an eye out for scalpers, fake tickets and scammers.
3. Pack your own snacks. Instead of buying an expensive meat pie and beer at the stadium, pack your own snacks and beverages. Some venues allow you to bring in food, but make sure to check the rules on the venue websites beforehand.
4. Skip the merch stand. Official merch is often marked up at venues. If you’re in need of new gear and you simply cannot repurpose what you’ve already got, have a look online beforehand – plus you might be able to buy, swap and sell merch via social media community groups.
5. Check for member perks. If you’re a member of a club or loyalty program, you might get discounts on tickets, food, or merch.