The announcement was made at Merewether on Wednesday morning and the February 10 fixture at Hunter Stadium marks a historic first venture outside of Queensland.

It comes after Newcastle hosted the Anzac Test match earlier this season and makes perfect sense to Stuart Ayres - NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Minister for Sport. 

“Newcastle is a perfect choice for the All Stars matches, and I’m pleased the NRL have partnered with the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW to secure this match for the Hunter,” Mr Ayres said.

“Thousands of visitors are expected to travel to Newcastle for the matches, which will provide a massive boost to the local economy.  After hosting the ANZAC Test Match earlier this year, Hunter Stadium is ready for All Stars action and I encourage all fans to book their tickets today.”

The decision to move for south of the state border in 2017 was also supported by Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council chair Linda Burney MP.

“This year’s men’s and women’s All Stars matches were a huge success and well supported both in the lead up to the games and the games themselves,” Ms Burney said.

“I have no doubt that Indigenous and non-Indigenous New South Wales fans in particular will jump at the chance to see the best male and female players line up against each other in Newcastle in February next year.”

The World All Stars, skippered by Cameron Smith, defeated the Indigenous All Stars, led by Greg Inglis, 12-8 at Suncorp Stadium on February 13.

Early bird NRL club member ticket prices were on sale Wednesday (1pm) and would start at $10.

General public tickets go on sale from Monday.