Prime Minister James Marape has announced ongoing discussions with National Rugby League (NRL) leadership to secure Papua New Guinea Rugby League representation at the highest level, while also unveiling ambitious tourism and infrastructure plans linked to upcoming international sporting events.
PM Marape said talks with NRL executives and board leaders were progressing to ensure Papua New Guinea Rugby League has formal representation within the league’s governance structure.
“With NRL leadership, the chairman and I have been in discussion. PNG Rugby League will have a place in our front side, so there’s work in progress,” he said.
He indicated that once finalized, PNG Rugby League would have representation on the NRL Board of Chiefs, ensuring the country’s local competition has a voice at the decision-making level.
Beyond rugby league governance, the Prime Minister outlined a major tourism development plan for Central Province, in partnership with the National Capital District (NCD).
Villages including Tubusereia, Barakau, Gaire, Gabagaba, Roku, Porebada, Lele and Kido — located along the coastal fringes of Port Moresby — have been earmarked as part of the first special economic zone designated for tourism.
“We will work with the city and national government to ensure these villages are developed to embrace visitors who come here, with motels and accommodation facilities,” PM Marape said.
The initiative will also extend inland to the Sogeri Mountains, near the starting point of the historic Kokoda Track, further broadening tourism opportunities.
PM Marape described the authentic Central Province lifestyle as “amongst the best on planet Earth” and praised the hospitality of its people, saying the region is well positioned to host visitors expected for upcoming international events.
Papua New Guinea is preparing for major sporting milestones, including the BC 2026 event and anticipated games in 2028, which are expected to draw significant international attention.
The Prime Minister also provided an update on the construction of a new rugby league Centre of Excellence, which is expected to take shape by the end of next year.
Once completed, the facility will house the sport’s business unit and serve as a key operational base from 2028 to 2035.
PM Marape revealed that he had visited the Penrith Panthers Centre of Excellence in Australia last year and was impressed by its simplicity and efficiency.
“They have a simple but very efficient Centre of Excellence that has produced the success they’ve received thus far,” he said.
“We will build something that is modest but functional — something that boosts our team and prepares us for the future.”
In the longer term, the Prime Minister said the government, in collaboration with the Governor, plans to upgrade Sir Hubert Murray Stadium into a permanent national home capable of seating between 30,000 and 40,000 people.
In the meantime, the existing facility will receive upgrades over the next decade to ensure readiness for 2028 and beyond. Surrounding infrastructure, including parking facilities and a modern market, will also be developed as part of broader city improvements.
“This part of our city will be updated in preparation for 2028,” Mr Marape said.
The Prime Minister thanked officials and organisers for their work in preparing the current facilities, describing the developments as part of a long-term national strategy to strengthen sport, tourism and economic growth.
