FIJI is poised to benefit from a landmark Pacific rugby league partnership following the signing of a historic Statement of Partnership between the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC), Pacific rugby league federations and regional governments in Brisbane on Wednesday.
The agreement, backed by a A$250 million investment from the Australian Government, aims to strengthen rugby league across Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Tonga through grassroots participation, player pathways and elite competition.
The partnership was formalised in the presence of the Prime Ministers of Australia, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Tonga, marking the first time four Pacific leaders have gathered outside a political forum to endorse a sporting initiative.
For Fiji, the agreement promises significant investment in junior development, with rugby league set to expand through primary and secondary school competitions, accredited coaching programs and increased opportunities for girls to participate in the sport.
The initiative will also help strengthen men’s and women’s domestic competitions across different age grades while providing clearer pathways for talented players to progress to higher levels, including international rugby league.
The partnership is expected to complement Fiji’s strong rugby league tradition and further support the development of future Fiji Bati and Fiji Bulikula representatives.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said rugby league had the power to unite communities while creating opportunities for young people throughout the Pacific.
He said the partnership reflected a shared commitment to investing in the next generation and strengthening regional ties through sport.
In addition to grassroots development, the agreement will continue to support Pacific Championships fixtures and explore opportunities to stage NRL and NRLW matches in Pacific nations, including Fiji.
Community programs aimed at youth engagement and violence prevention will also be expanded across the region.
The Pacific Rugby League Partnership will be delivered by the ARLC in collaboration with the national rugby league federations of Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Tonga, ensuring each nation plays a central role in shaping the future growth of the game across the Pacific.
