Scott Morrison announces funds for Fiji’s NRL bid

Scott Morrison will pave the way for Fiji to play in one of the NRL’s second-tier competitions, as part of a wider sports package.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison with young rugby league players in Suva, Fiji. Picture: AAP

Scott Morrison will pave the way for Fiji to play in one of the NRL’s second-tier competitions with government grants to boost a local rugby league team led by former State of Origin star Petero Civoniceva.

The Prime Minister will pledge financial support, as part of the $40 million Australia-Pacific Sports Linkages Program, for Fiji’s bid to compete in the NSWRL Intrust Super Premiership and hold NRL pre-season trial matches in the Pacific by 2020.

“I am happy to announce that we will be helping fund Fiji’s pathway into the New South Wales Rugby League’s Intrust Super Premiership,” the Prime Minister said.

“It’s been a dream of Petero’s and many others to field a Fijian team in one of our most beloved competitions.

“I will be tuning in to watch … especially when they play the Newtown Jets.”

NRL head of government and community relations Jaymes Boland-Rudder said today’s announcement was an endorsement of rugby league’s growth and work in the Pacific.

“We thank the Prime Minister, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, for generously supporting and raising the profile of the lasting impact Rugby League is making for women, children and men throughout the Pacific,” Mr Boland-Rudder said.

“The NRL trial matches, alongside the assistance provided towards funding the proposed Fijian-based team in the NSWRL Intrust Super Premiership, will have a profound impact in inspiring our proud and passionate Pacific neighbours and their communities.”

The NRL trial matches would be played in February 2020, 2021 and 2022, with the proposed Fiji team to enter the NSWRL competition next year.