Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, alongside PNG’s James Marape and NRL boss Peter V’landys, made a groundbreaking announcement on Thursday morning in Sydney’s CBD. Albo declaring it “a great day for both countries,” with excitement in the air.
“Australia and PNG are the nearest of neighbours and the truest of friends,” Albanese said. “We share a history of sacrifice, a commitment to peace and prosperity in the Pacific, and, of course, a love of rugby league.
“That’s why I’m thrilled to announce the Australian government’s support for a PNG rugby league team to join the NRL in 2028.”
The new PNG team, proudly calling Port Moresby home, will belong to the people of Papua New Guinea. “It will have millions of supporters from day one,” Albanese added, underlining the passion for rugby league in PNG.
Australia and Papua New Guinea are united by our love of Rugby League.
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) December 12, 2024
This is why I am delighted to announce the Australian Government is supporting a PNG team to join the National Rugby League competition from 2028.
The new team will belong to the people of Papua New Guinea.… pic.twitter.com/XHKvemoqMs
Papua New Guinea’s PM James Marape celebrated the historic moment, calling it “monumental” for his nation. Describing the announcement as “pivotal” in strengthening the relationship between PNG and Australia while uniting people across his country.
The PNG team is set to kick off in 2028 as part of the $600 million AUD Pacific Rugby League Partnership. To make it happen, the Australian government has committed to building accommodation and offering tax-free benefits to attract players to Port Moresby, a move anticipated to boost PNG’s economy.
But the partnership doesn’t stop at rugby. The two nations will also sign a “strategic trust” agreement, making Australia PNG’s primary security partner.
While the finer details remain confidential, according to the ABC, this deal gives Australia the option to terminate the agreement if PNG engages in talks with China or other rival nations within the next decade, potentially ending the NRL deal as well.
Though the team is currently without a name and jersey, fans from both nations can start counting down to 2028, when PNG will begin to make their mark on the NRL.
