The Australian Match-Fixing Task Force (AMFTF) has been activated for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup 2026.
The AMFTF was established in 2025 to protect the integrity of major sporting events hosted in Australia in the leadup to the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games. It builds on successful integrity coordination arrangements implemented for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026.
The newly activated task force brings together rugby league, law enforcement agencies, government bodies, wagering service providers, and international integrity partners to strengthen coordination and intelligence sharing to safeguard the tournament from match-fixing and sports wagering-related corruption.
The Rugby League World Cup 2026 will be staged in 9 cities across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, taking place from 15 October to 15 November 2026.
As the designated National Platform under the Macolin Convention, Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) is responsible for the coordination of the fight against the manipulation of sports competitions in Australia, including management of the AMFTF.
SIA’s Head of Strategy and International Policy, James Moller, said the taskforce is about being proactive, vigilant, and united.
“While there is no specific intelligence to indicate any threats to the Rugby League World Cup in 2026, it is vital that all organisations involved in protecting the integrity of the competition remain vigilant,” Mr Moller said.
“Match-fixing is a serious criminal offence in Australia, and it is crucial that these organisations are aware of their roles and responsibilities in contributing to this united approach.”