NRL and Papua New Guinea Government agree $150 million rugby league ‘village’ plan

The NRL and the Papua New Guinea Government have agreed to establish a state-of-the-art ‘NRL Village’ in the PNG capital of Port Moresby.

The $150 million This major investment, valued at $150 million, will provide a secure living and training environment for players, families, and staff of the league’s newest franchise, marking a significant step toward PNG’s formal entry into the NRL.

Backed by a $600 million commitment from the Australian Government to support the Pacific nation’s inclusion in the NRL, the PNG franchise is slated to become the NRL’s 18th or 19th team by 2028.

In addition, the PNG Government’s investment in the high-security facility highlights a dedicated effort to ensure the safety and well-being of all those relocating to play for the expansion club.

The proposed NRL Village will house approximately 200 individuals and offer first-class amenities designed to rival the training facilities of the league’s 17 existing teams.

A cutting-edge Centre of Excellence will also be constructed alongside the residential compound, reinforcing PNG’s ambition to develop a competitive and sustainable professional rugby league team.

In a statement, the NRL advised “the security of Australian players and their families has been a central concern, with PNG ranking among the highest globally for crime rates. This initiative aims to provide peace of mind for players considering relocation by prioritising a highly secure living environment.”

Image credit: NRL.