The Papua New Guinea and Australian Governments, and the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) are pleased to announce the Interim Board for PNG’s NRL Franchise.
This is a major milestone on the road to PNG’s historic entry into Australia’s NRL competition by 2028.
The newly appointed Interim Board brings together a strong and diverse group of Papua New Guinean and Australian leaders, with the skills and experience needed to guide the Franchise to success.
Interim Board members include:
- Mr Ray Dib (Chairperson)
- Ms Lorna McPherson
- Mr Richard Pegum
- Mr Stan Joyce
- Mr Wapu Sonk
- Mr Ian Tarutia
- Mr Marcus Bai
The Australian Government is proud to stand side by side and walk step by step with PNG in supporting this once-in-a-generation opportunity.
The PNG NRL team will be a catalyst for economic growth—creating jobs, boosting tourism, and strengthening PNG’s national brand.
Through our investment in the Pacific Rugby League Partnership, we are helping to unlock the incredible talent of PNG athletes.
Together, we are building more than a team—we are building a legacy.
Quote attributable to Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, MP:
"On behalf of the 11 million-plus people of our country, I want to say thank you to the Australian Government, firstly, for you standing side by side with us in this venture towards uniting this nation ... Your investment in the next 10 years over $600 million into this program is not an investment in vain.”
“So for us, having competency at the board level and competency at the business unit level ensures we not just came ready in 2028, but more importantly, the team is sustained going forward into the future.”
“And to NRL, I want to give you our fullest assurance. The Government of PNG stands ready. It is part of our national unification strategy and our fifth year and going forward, using rugby league as a catalyst to unite our country.”
Quote attributable to Australia’s Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, The Hon Pat Conroy MP:
"I can say hand on heart, a PNG team in the NRL has been talked about for decades,` but it's only through the vision and leadership and sacrifice of Prime Minister Marape that it can be delivered.”
“We're confident about meeting the timelines and Prime Minister Marape will announce the process for the name as well. This project will succeed on the timelines we're talking about because it's in the national interest of both countries.”
Ends.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100