The upcoming 2008 Rugby League World Cup will see a total of £780,000 split between the 10 teams competing in the competition.
The winners will claim a £255,000 cheque, with £206,000 going to the runners-up in the Brisbane final on November 22.
The two losing semi-finalists will each receive £117,000, with £29,000 going to the loser of the semi-final qualifier and the fourth-placed team in the super pool.
Prize money from £16,000 to £8,000 goes right down to the 10th-placed team, determined by the outcome of the ranking games.
"This is a tournament that is a stepping stone to new opportunities for the international game," said tournament director Colin Love.
"Through the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, the Rugby League International Federation is providing an important stage on which to showcase athletes from England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Australia, New Zealand, PNG, Tonga, Samoa and Fiji.
"It represents an enormous financial commitment from the game because we underwrite everything from air fares to accommodation, tournament facilities and prize money. But it is a commitment that will provide new opportunity in the future.
"National pride will be the key motivator for each and every nation, but there is no doubt also that the prize money will be an added incentive for everyone."
The tournament kicks off on Saturday October 25 live on Sky Sports 2 when England meet Papua New Guinea.

Latest Sky Sports News Report
Del Potro v Verdasco
Kevin Kilbane - It's time to move on
Neville injury latest
Fergie's selection problems
Prizefighter draw
Big Sam on road to recovery
Djokovic v Davydenko
Jermain Defoe, Darren Bent and Jimmy Bullard all earn Kammy's praise, unlike Michel Platini...
The Insider believes Man Utd striker Michael Owen must be in England's 2010 World Cup squad.