The hotly-anticipated Rugby League World Cup Nines is taking place on October 18-19. 

The tournament is particularly significant as both women and men are being paid equally - 2,000 Australian dollars. In addition, the women will have prize money, though this will differ from the men's. 

The competition is about to kick off, so here is everything you need to know about it.

Who's taking part?

Australia

Australia are the host nation and arguably favourites to win.

While their domestic league is only two months long, they play a large amount of international matches throughout the year meaning they are a well-oiled machine. The Australian player to look out for is Ali Brigginshaw. She is captain of the Brisbane Broncos and in consistently good form for club and country.

In a recent interview with NewsChain, England's Charlotte Booth said that Australia's model for rugby league is the one to follow. She said: "I think [to improve England's rugby league] we need more international series to be held. Personally, Australia [have a good model], how they play the NRL, they play less league games but more internationals and have more international camps."

England

The player to watch out for on the team is Emily Rudge, who captained England in their last test match in October. Rudge was also part of the last three squads to compete at world cups and is an ambassador for the next world tournament.

England's players are thrilled to be paid for the first time. Rhiannion Marshall recently told NewsChain: "It's amazing that they want to give us that and that they recognise our time and effort, it's good to get something back."

New Zealand

New Zealand are the team most likely to cause Australia problems in the competition.

Star player is Honey Hireme, a hugely decorated figure who has played rugby league for clubs since she was five. She missed out on competing in Australia's NRLW this season as she was caring for her ill mother before she passed away last month.

New Zealand's head coach Justin Morgan said about his selection: “I’m really looking forward to seeing what these guys bring to the table especially following on from the NRLW competition where a lot of these players were in impressive form. This is a new tournament and with that brings a new level of play. It’s going to be exciting.”

Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) may be the underdogs but they should not be underestimated having recently won a silver medal at the Pacific Games.

They have announced co-captains for the inaugural competition, Janet John and Angela Watego.

Head coach Bagelo Solien said: “Janet captained the silver medal winning PNG 9s side at the recent Pacific Games in Samoa and we have retained her for her outstanding qualities as a leader. Angela is a debutant Orchid but her enthusiasm and personality as a leader has been invaluable over the past seven days in camp."

How does it work?

Each team competes over three rounds. The top two teams will meet in the final. The first round is taking place on Friday with the other rounds and the final all happening on Saturday.

Key matches

Australia v New Zealand: This match will be played on Friday. This is a hotly anticipated game, not only for the neighbourly rivalry, but due to the teams arguably being favourites to meet in the final.

Australia v England: England's toughest match will take place in the second round of the competition on Saturday. With English players having said the Australian model is the one their league should follow,it will  be interesting to see how they fare against the real thing.

How can you watch it?

Fox Sports have bought rights to broadcast the event but it is also available to stream on Kayo. NewsChain will also be covering the tournament.