The Australian Jillaroos have made rugby league history with a rampant 124-6 win over Wales in the final game of the women’s World Cup group stages.

Australia had already qualified for the semi-finals of the tournament and knew that they would be facing Fiji in the final four, however, that didn’t stop them from putting on a clinic to beat Wales.

The Jillaroos ran in 21 tries, 20 of which were converted by Jesse Southwell who racked up an incredible 44 points thanks to her 20 conversions and one try.

Outside backs Jaime Chapman and Jessica Sergis scored the bulk of the tries with Chapman scoring six, including one late on to help break the record for the largest-ever win in international rugby league.

The 124-6 victory eclipsed the 122-8 scoreline that Denmark beat Sweden by back in 2012. The win also marked the largest margin of victory in any women’s international rugby league match, though France’s men still hold the record with their 120-0 win over Serbia back in 2003.

Leading 60-0 at the break, Australia did not let up as they kept piling on the points but arguably the biggest cheer of the afternoon came when Wales crossed over for their one try.

The NRLW’s Tayla Preston, who is opting to represent her heritage, kicked through with St Helens’ Paige Travis grounding the ball to get Wales on the board and ensure they weren’t whitewashed in the match.

Incredibly, that meant that Wales become the first side to score against the Jillaroos this tournament with both Samoa and England beaten to nil – albeit by smaller margins.

Wales had lost their first two games 70-6 against England and 76-0 against Samoa, however, Wales went home with pride as captain Bethan Dainton said: “We just wanted to create a legacy back home for young girls coming through, and I think we did that. The scorelines haven’t been in our favour but no one gave up and I am so proud of the girls.”

Australia (60) 124

Tries: Kernick, Chapman 6, Church 2, Southwell, Sergis 4, Apps, Paki, Joseph 2, Upton 2, Nizza Goals: Southwell 20

Wales (0) 6

Tries: Travis Goals: Preston

ON ANOTHER LEVEL 🇦🇺

#RLWC26 https://t.co/QrJos8NyUW

— Rugby League World Cup 2026 (@rugbyleaguewcup) November 1, 2026

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