Landmark Pacific rugby league partnership signed

A significant new era for rugby league in the Pacific has dawned with the signing of a landmark Statement of Partnership between the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) and Pacific rugby league federations. This agreement, witnessed by the Prime Ministers of Australia, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, and Tonga, is bolstered by a substantial $250 million investment from the Australian Government.

The core objective of this partnership is to foster the growth of rugby league throughout the Pacific. Key initiatives include establishing primary and high school competitions in Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, and Samoa, supported by accredited teacher coaches. The program will also focus on promoting girls' competitions and building robust men's and women's national leagues across various age groups.

Beyond grassroots development, the partnership commits to continuing the Pacific Championship matches and actively seeking opportunities to host NRL and NRLW games within the Pacific nations. This move is expected to not only elevate the sport's profile but also create significant economic and social benefits for the host countries.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the broader impact of the agreement, stating that rugby league will serve as a catalyst for social change and strengthen people-to-people and institutional ties between Australia and the Pacific. The ARLC, with Chair Peter V’landys credited as a driving force, will deliver the partnership in collaboration with the national rugby league federations of Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji.

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rugby league would be a catalyst for social change and deepening Australia–Pacific people-to-people and institutional links.