Australian swimming champion Ian Thorpe has lent his support to the nation's World Cup bid for the 2018 or 2022 tournament.

Thorpe believes staging the event in Australia would be enormous for the country, both on a worldwide scale and on an economic level locally.

"It would be huge for Australia as the whole country would be showcased to the rest of the world,'' said Ian Thorpe.

"Also, economically we would receive a great benefit.

"I think the Australian people have an idea after the success of the Sydney Olympics, but many would not realise what hosting a FIFA World Cup™ means to the entire nation. It would strengthen our position in key markets in our time zone and tourism would go through the roof.

"In 2018 or 2022 I really look forward to watching Australia win the FIFA World Cup™ in Australia."