Media release from Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, announcing a small grant to the National Rugby League to support its Pacific Strategy for Fiji, PNG, Samoa and Tonga.
Today I announce the Australian Government’s continued support for the National Rugby League (NRL) to expand its successful sports program across the Pacific.
At an event today in Townsville I announced that Fiji, Samoa and Tonga will be part of the NRL’s expanded Pacific Strategy 2014-2018, which has already been successful in Papua New Guinea.
The NRL’s Pacific Strategy improves participation of both men and women in the sport, delivers education and health initiatives, and provides mentoring and leadership opportunities for women and girls.
The NRL will work with key groups in Fiji, Samoa and Tonga to engage with more than 40,000 students each year across 230 schools, using 100 volunteers, to be more active in sport and have a healthier lifestyle.
Sport plays a unique role in shaping a country’s identity, values and culture. Activities such as the NRL Pacific Strategy help bring together communities and deliver better outcomes for the people of Fiji, Samoa and Tonga.
At today’s announcement I was joined by Ewen Jones MP, Federal Member for Herbert, Dave Smith, CEO of the NRL, and players from the North Queensland Cowboys rugby league team.
For information on the NRL’s Pacific Strategy 2014-2018 visit www.nrl.com.au
Media enquiries
· Minister’s office: (02) 6277 7500
· DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555