The Australian government has launched a Pacific Rugby League Partnership aimed at enhancing sporting connections across the Pacific, with a particular focus on Fiji. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made the announcement, highlighting Papua New Guinea’s successful bid to join the NRL competition by 2028.
The ten-year partnership is set to allocate about $34 million AUD (approximately $25 million) annually to bolster grassroots, school, talent, and elite pathway programs for rugby league in Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Papua New Guinea. This initiative will not only expand primary and secondary school programs but also improve coaching and training opportunities, with a significant focus on promoting girls’ and women’s rugby league.
Additionally, the partnership is expected to introduce elite rugby league games in Fiji, following the success of the Pacific Championships co-hosted in Suva and an NRL pre-season match between the Melbourne Storm and Newcastle Knights held earlier this year.
This initiative builds upon 25 years of Australian Government investments in sports development throughout the Pacific. The ongoing collaboration this year through PacificAus Sports includes support for the Fijian Drua’s men’s and women’s teams, the participation of the Kaiviti Silktails in the NSW Jersey Flegg rugby league competition, and backing for Fijian athletes’ preparation for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
This partnership not only fosters sporting talent in the Pacific region but also strengthens community ties and empowers women in sports, paving the way for a promising future in rugby league.
In summary, this initiative is a remarkable step forward in fostering athletic development and inclusivity in the Pacific region, particularly in rugby league. It reflects a commitment to nurturing sporting talent and enhancing opportunities for all athletes.
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