The Australian government has announced a new initiative called the Pacific Rugby League Partnership, aimed at strengthening sporting ties across the Pacific, particularly in Fiji. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed the partnership along with the exciting news that Papua New Guinea successfully secured a spot in the NRL competition, set to join by 2028.
This ten-year partnership is projected to allocate around $34 million AUD (approximately $25 million) annually to support grassroots programs, school initiatives, talent development, and elite pathways for rugby league in Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Papua New Guinea. Key areas for support include expanding primary and high school programs, enhancing training and coaching opportunities, and making considerable investments in women’s and girls’ rugby league.
Fans can look forward to elite rugby league matches being held in Fiji, building on the success of the recent co-hosting of the Pacific Championships in Suva and the NRL pre-season game between the Melbourne Storm and Newcastle Knights. This partnership is an evolution of 25 years of Australian government investments in sports development in the Pacific.
Through the PacificAus Sports initiative, 2023 has already seen fruitful collaborations with the Fijian Drua men’s and women’s teams, the Kaiviti Silktails participating in the NSW Jersey Flegg competition, and efforts to support Fijian athletes in their preparations for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
In conclusion, this initiative not only fosters sporting excellence but also promotes inclusivity and development across rugby league in the Pacific communities. It is a promising step toward nurturing local talent and growing the sport in the region, potentially leading to a vibrant rugby culture.
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