Australia Pledges $600 Million for League Team in PNG Amid Competition With Beijing

Authorities will need to overcome major challenges to set up an NRL team in the ’murder capital' of the Pacific.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (R) speaks next to Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape during a press conference in Sydney, Australia on Dec. 12, 2024. David Gray/AFP via Getty Images

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his Papua New Guinean (PNG) counterpart, James Marape, have officially announced the long-awaited $600 million to support PNG’s entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) from 2028.

The team, based in the developing Port Moresby, requires substantial work from both sides to overcome infrastructure and safety issues. Tax breaks will also be on offer to attract player and staffing talent to the PNG’s capital.