NRL team ‘would be force for PNG unity’, says PM James Marape

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape says a PNG NRL team would be a ‘unifying force’ for the nation as the Albanese government backs its bid.

PNG Prime Minister James Marape in Port Moresby. Picture: PMO

Papua New Guinea Prime ­Minister James Marape says a PNG NRL team would be a ­“unifying force” for the nation, as the Albanese government pledged $5.5m towards the country’s bid to become the league’s 18th franchise.

Minister for the Pacific Pat Conroy announced the funding in Port Moresby on Wednesday night to help PNG build its business case and support its pipeline of potential players.

Mr Marape said rugby league – PNG’s national sport – was “the common denominator” that bound together the nation of more than 800 language groups. “Even during challenging times, the pride of Papua New Guineans in rallying behind our national team is second to none,” he told a dinner hosted by the country’s bid committee.

“As the government, we recognise this pursuit will provide a platform to unite the most diverse nation on planet earth under one flag.”

The federal government has thrown its support behind PNG’s bid, seeing it as a key opportunity to bind the nations together amid growing Chinese influence in the country.

Mr Conroy said the creation of a PNG NRL team would honour the shared history between the countries.

Anthony Albanese and James Marape exchange jerseys ahead a match in Brisbane in September 2022. Picture: PMO

“Ultimately, it’s a question for the NRL, but we’re supporting it,” he said.

“We are the closest of neighbours and dearest of friends. Only 4km separates our two countries and I can’t think of anything that will bring our countries closer together.”

The $5.5m investment will support PNG’s push to establish the feasibility of its bid, provide seed funding for a skills academy, and fund a schoolboys and schoolgirls competition.

It follows years of Australian government support for grassroots rugby league in PNG.

ARL Commission boss Peter V’landys has said talks with the government are under way for PNG to enter the NRL as early as 2026, with a base in Cairns.