Melbourne Boxing Day Test Shatters Records with Over One Hundred Thousand Tickets Sold, Driving Tourism and Economic Growth

Published on December 27, 2025

The spotlight of the sporting world once again shines on Melbourne today as fans from around the globe gather for the highly anticipated Ashes edition of the Boxing Day Test. This iconic event, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), is expected to attract huge crowds and make a significant contribution to the local economy, with over 100,000 tickets already sold to interstate and international visitors.

Huge Boost to the Visitor Economy

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, joined Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg and MCG CEO Stuart Fox to announce that more than 100,000 tickets have been sold for the Boxing Day Test, providing a major boost to Melbourne’s visitor economy. The majority of these tickets have been purchased by international or interstate fans, who are flocking to Melbourne not only to witness the historic match but also to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

This year’s Test match is expected to attract around 90,000 attendees on each of the first three days, marking a significant increase in footfall compared to previous years. The crowds will be drawn to the MCG, where the energy and excitement of the game is sure to leave a lasting impression. The event builds on the record-breaking attendance seen last year, when a staggering 373,691 people passed through the MCG gates during the five-day match against India.

Rising Hotel Occupancy in Melbourne

With the surge in tourism comes a notable increase in hotel occupancy in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD). During the Boxing Day Test, hotel occupancy is forecast to be over 15 percent higher than on comparable days a week earlier, and 11 percent higher than at the same time last year. These figures reflect the growing demand for accommodation, as visitors flock to Melbourne to experience one of the most important sporting events on the Australian calendar.

The impact of the Boxing Day Test on the local hospitality industry is immense, providing not only a boost to hotel occupancy but also increasing business for restaurants, bars, and other venues across the city. Local businesses stand to benefit significantly from the influx of tourists who will spend money on food, drink, and entertainment during the event.

Summer Fest Brings Extra Fun to Fans

In addition to the on-field action, fans can enjoy the lively atmosphere at Yarra Park, located adjacent to the MCG, where the ‘Summer Fest’ event is being held. Supported by the Allan Labor Government, this festival offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, including live music, free games, giveaways, and skills challenges. Summer Fest creates an inclusive environment where fans can immerse themselves in the excitement of the Test while enjoying entertainment and activities for all ages.

The partnership between the Labor Government and Cricket Australia has helped to expand the appeal of the Boxing Day Test, transforming it from a sporting event into a comprehensive entertainment experience. Visitors can take full advantage of everything Melbourne has to offer, from the action at the MCG to the vibrant atmosphere at Summer Fest.

Looking Ahead: The 150th Anniversary Test in 2027

The Boxing Day Test is not only a key moment in Australian cricket but also a major part of the city’s sporting calendar. This year’s event helps build momentum toward a historic milestone for the MCG: the 150th Anniversary Men’s Test between Australia and England, scheduled to take place in March 2027. This match will mark the first-ever men’s Test match to be played under lights at the MCG, adding a modern twist to the legacy of the famous Centenary Test in 1977. The match will evoke memories of the thrilling 45-run victory for Australia that year, a fitting celebration of the long-standing history of the Test match at the MCG.

Raising Awareness for Heart Health and Diabetes

In line with the commitment to public health, Cricket Australia, in partnership with the Shane Warne Legacy, will raise awareness for heart health and diabetes during the Boxing Day Test. Fans attending the event will have the opportunity to take part in free health checks at one of the 56 stations set up in and around the MCG. These stations will provide quick, non-invasive tests that measure key health metrics such as blood pressure, BMI, and diabetes risk. The initiative aims to help people better understand their health and take proactive steps toward improving their well-being.

Government Support Fuels Fan Engagement

The partnership between the Victorian Government and Cricket Australia has played a pivotal role in boosting fan engagement for the Boxing Day Test. By marketing the event to both domestic and international audiences, the government has helped ensure larger crowds and a more successful event. The MCG has been confirmed as the home of the Boxing Day Test until at least 2030, ensuring that future generations will continue to enjoy this iconic event.

The Victorian Government’s support extends beyond the cricket field, contributing to the growth of the state’s tourism sector. As Minister Steve Dimopoulos highlighted, the Boxing Day Test serves as a huge draw for visitors, providing them with the opportunity to explore Melbourne’s food, wine, and natural beauty while attending one of the world’s most exciting cricket events.

Inspiring Future Generations of Cricket Fans

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence also emphasized the importance of initiatives such as Summer Fest in inspiring the next generation of cricket participants and fans. The fan zone outside the MCG is designed to engage young people and encourage them to get involved in the sport. Through free activities and entertainment, Summer Fest helps build a connection with cricket that extends beyond the game itself, fostering a love of the sport for years to come.

Melbourne: A Global Destination for Sport and Culture

As Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements noted, Melbourne is at its most vibrant during the summer months, making it an ideal destination for sports and tourism. The city’s unique sporting precinct, located just a short walk from the CBD, offers a perfect setting for visitors to soak in the atmosphere of the Boxing Day Test. The city’s rich cultural offerings and world-class food and wine experiences make it an irresistible destination for tourists from around the globe.

Looking ahead to the 150th Anniversary Test in 2027, McClements highlighted the opportunity for Melbourne to showcase its sporting and cultural credentials on the global stage. Hosting this milestone event under lights will further cement Melbourne’s status as a premier destination for world-class sporting experiences.

Cricket Australia’s Commitment to the Sport

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg also underscored the importance of the Boxing Day Test in the history of Australian cricket. The MCG has witnessed some of the greatest moments in the sport, and the Boxing Day Test holds a special place in the hearts of Australian fans. Greenberg expressed gratitude to the Victorian Government for their continued support, which has helped elevate the status of the event as one of the world’s premier sporting spectacles.

Melbourne Cricket Club’s Legacy

As Stuart Fox, CEO of the Melbourne Cricket Club, highlighted, the Boxing Day Test is a deeply rooted tradition in Victoria. The MCG, the birthplace of International Test cricket, continues to be a symbol of Australia’s rich sporting heritage. The event remains a beloved fixture on the Australian cricket calendar, with hundreds of thousands of cricket fans expected to attend across all days of the match.