With FIFA Women’s World Cup starting on 20 July 2023, Sydney’s accommodation and hospitality sector is also kicking goals with a noticeable rise in hotel bookings around Western Sydney ahead of the opening match at Stadium Australia in Olympic Park.
Hotel capacity across Sydney is also nearing 70 per cent – remarkable for winter – which includes the surge in bookings for accommodation providers around Olympic Park.
From February to March 2023, Sydney hotels averaged 85 per cent occupancy. Recent major events also caused an increase in demand with hotel occupancy for World Pride Sydney and Vivid Sydney over 95 per cent and 90 per cent respectively.
FIFA Women’s World Cup expects to draw more than 80,000 spectators to Stadium Australia (Accor Stadium) for the Matilda’s opening match against Ireland.
Accommodation Australia NSW Manager Stacey McBride said the event has already created an uptick in hotel bookings around Western Sydney.
“We are seeing a high number of bookings for accommodation providers located in the vicinity of Olympic Park and hotel capacity right across Sydney is nearing 70 per cent, reflecting a noticeable surge in demand,” Ms McBride said.
FIFA reported selling more than one million tickets for matches across Australia and New Zealand.
“The soaring popularity of women’s sport, and the Matildas in particular, is undeniable and it’s fantastic to see,” Ms McBride said.
“For accommodation providers, this translates to higher occupancy rates, while the local hospitality industry also sees an increase in both local and international visitor spend.
“When it comes to supporting Australian women’s sport it’s definitely a win-win for everyone.”
Sydneysiders can also watch all the action at the first-ever FIFA Fan Fest in Darling Harbour.
