The Queensland Government has agreed to trial extended trading hours at licensed pubs and clubs for the Socceroos’ upcoming knockout match against Egypt. 

Under the trial, venues will be able to trade between 3am and 7am on Saturday, 4 July 2026 to allow fans to come together and wave the green and gold. 

To trade during the Socceroos clash, licensed venues must open for the primary purpose of broadcasting the game and be approved in advance by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR). All other licensing laws and requirements continue to apply, including compliance with the responsible service of alcohol. 

Queensland Hotels Association Chief Executive Bernie Hogan said: “Since Queensland’s trading laws were written over 35 years ago, the only meaningful change has been to heap on more restrictions, especially over the past 10 years.

“This weekend offers a golden opportunity to practice what operating in a 24/7 economy looks like. It’s not about consumption or compliance – our venues are as safe at 4am as they are at 4pm – it’s about choice.

“It’s about giving venue operators across the state the chance to throw open their doors and trade. “There’s something wonderful about that instant camaraderie that happens when people unite in a shared moment.”

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said: “There’s nothing like coming together with a crowd to cheer on the Socceroos, and we want Queenslanders to be part of that atmosphere.

“We’ve found a way through and taken a practical approach so our pubs and community clubs can open and create a great game-day experience for fans right across the state. 

“This is about making it easier for people to get together, support our national team and enjoy the excitement, while still ensuring the safety for Queenslanders and the responsible service of alcohol. 

“It’s a targeted measure that keeps the focus exactly where it should be – on the game, the fans and a great community atmosphere.” 

Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Youth Sam O’Connor said: “Big moments like this are what our night-time economy is all about, bringing people together to share an experience and celebrate. 

“We want fans to enjoy the buzz, the energy and the sense of community that comes with backing the Socceroos. 

“At the same time, safety remains front and centre – these arrangements ensure venues can deliver a fantastic atmosphere while maintaining strong standards for patrons and staff. 

“This is the kind of balanced, exciting approach that helps our night-time economy thrive while keeping Queenslanders safe.” 

Venues must submit an application to the OLGR for approval by 2pm on Thursday, 2 July 2026, more information can be found on the website.  

Automatic approval for Victorian pubs to open

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has announced that her government will use its powers under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 to grant automatic approval for every pub and licensed venue in Victoria to operate for the game.

“The best thing about Victoria during the World Cup is watching our bars, streets and public spaces come to life. But the next big match starts at 4am Melbourne time when most pubs and venues aren’t licensed to operate,” Allan said.

“Venues showing the broadcast can stay open all night and the last service will be an hour after the match ends. We’re also running live sites at Fed Square and AAMI Park. Good luck Socceroos – Victoria is behind you.”

More than 70 venues to open early in South Australia

More than 70 venues across South Australia will be open and welcoming fans for Saturday morning’s clash between Australia and Egypt in the World Cup.

The SA Government has supported pubs and hospitality venues throughout the state by providing free short-term liquor licenses for the entirety of the tournament.

With the match set to take place in the early hours of Saturday morning when venues would normally be closed, the short-term liquor licences allow them to extend their hours of operation. In total, 78 venues across South Australia including in the CBD, the suburbs and in regional South Australia have all had their free application to welcome soccer fans approved. 

Extended action for ACT

Licensed venues across the ACT have been granted extended trading hours to show select games live – no matter what time they are on.

AHA ACT General Manager Chris Gatfield said special events have been declared for 11 remaining World Cup games including Australia’s clash against Egypt at 4am, July 4, the quarter and semi-finals and the final.

“There’s no better place to feel part of the world cup spirit than down at your local,” said Gatfield.

“Venues across the ACT are preparing for big crowds and events like this are best shared with a lively, group of passionate supporters.”

Gatfield said many venues will put on extra staff for the game, design special menus and order in extra stock for the big events.

“Don’t sit alone yelling at your TV, get down to your favourite local and get a taste of the World Cup atmosphere,” said Gatfield.

“You can order some amazing food, have a drink and be part of something we will remember for years. And in the process, you can help out an industry that is doing it tough at the moment.”

Pictured main: Fans at The Boundary Hotel, West End.