WA knocks back initial NRL funding request

Tom Rabe and Zoe Samios

Oct 30, 2024 – 7.46pm

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Peter V’landys’ ambitious plan to expand the NRL into Perth has hit another hurdle, with the West Australian government rejecting an initial request to inject millions of dollars into grassroots rugby league.

Establishing a new team in Western Australia is a critical part of the NRL’s plan to grow its competition to 20 teams by 2030 and secure a record broadcast deal to fund the sport.

Tom Rabe is the WA political correspondent, based in Perth.

Zoe Samios covers wagering and the business of sport from the AFR's Sydney newsroom. She was previously the media and telecommunications reporter for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, and covered media at The Australian.