PNG Government Meets ARLC Bosses Over 2028 NRL Franchise Plans

PNG Government Meets ARLC Bosses Over 2028 NRL Franchise Plans

​Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman Peter V’landys and National Rugby League (NRL) CEO Andrew Abdo have arrived in Papua New Guinea for high-level discussions with Prime Minister James Marape and key PNG rugby league stakeholders regarding the country’s proposed NRL franchise set to debut in 2028.

The meeting, taking place today at 11.30am at the Boroko Club Lounge inside the Santos National Football Stadium, includes PNG NRL officials such as Andrew Hill, representatives from the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), government officials, corporate sponsors, and Australia's Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Pat Conroy. Also in attendance are ARLC directors Peter Beattie and Wayne Pearce.

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According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s office, the agenda includes updates on preparations for the franchise, including plans for a player and staff accommodation compound, rugby league development pathways, and governance structures such as the composition of the franchise’s board.

A major topic will be the Australian Government’s proposed funding of up to A$60 million (approximately K158 million) annually to support the team and broader rugby league development in PNG.

The meeting also seeks to set timelines for infrastructure readiness, professional club operations, and the launch of a public competition to name the new team.

“This meeting is crucial as the Perth Bears have been confirmed as the 18th NRL team in 2027, and PNG’s entry in 2028 will be the next major expansion milestone,” a spokesperson noted.

Speaking to Sydney’s Radio 2GB ahead of the trip, V’landys said the visit would focus on reviewing potential accommodation sites and the centre of excellence needed to support the franchise.

“We’re going there to look at where we’re going to put all our accommodation for our players,” V’landys said. “We’re also going to look at our centre of excellence, and ensuring the ground there is going to be of sufficient standard to play NRL matches.”

He praised the PNG Government’s enthusiasm for the project. “The national government has been extremely supportive. They’re doing cartwheels about having an NRL team,” he added.

The meeting is expected to clarify the next steps and ensure alignment between all partners ahead of the historic inclusion of a PNG-based team in the world’s top rugby league competition.

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