Pacific rugby league partnership transforms the game

In a groundbreaking sports diplomacy deal, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) and the Australian Government have announced a 10-year Pacific Rugby League Partnership, designed to strengthen rugby league across Papua New Guinea (PNG), Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji.

The partnership includes grassroots investment, pathway development, and elite-level rugby league programs, as well as the introduction of a PNG-based NRL team in the expanded NRL Telstra Premiership.

ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM hailed the agreement as a historic moment for rugby league and the Pacific.
“This is an historic step for Rugby League, Australia, PNG and the entire Pacific. Rugby league is the number one sport in the Pacific. This new club will solidify rugby league’s role as the unifying language of our region,” V’landys said.

The deal allocates roughly half the funding to grassroots programs in PNG, with additional support for initiatives across Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa. The programs aim to enhance school retention rates, foster national cohesion, and create opportunities for Pacific youth.

“When rugby league is on the curriculum, kids go to school – and that changes lives,” V’landys added. “Rugby league isn’t just sport; it’s a social force for good – a way to improve lives and build stronger communities.”

The new PNG team is expected to bring an additional 10 million+ audience to the NRL, transforming casual viewers into dedicated fans. Pathway investments will also develop a fresh wave of rugby league talent.

V’landys thanked Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, PNG Prime Minister James Marape, and Minister Pat Conroy for their visionary support.

This landmark partnership sets the stage for rugby league to become a lasting social and cultural force in the Pacific region.