The Australian Government announced a new visa package to deepen people-to-people connections between Australia and Papua New Guinea and to support the historic entry of the PNG Chiefs into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028.
This package will make it easier for Papua New Guinean nationals associated with the PNG Chiefs, including players, coaches, officials, media representatives, and fans, to travel to Australia, reinforcing both countries shared commitment to cultural and sporting ties.
Under the new low-cost arrangements, for travel to Australia related to the PNG Chiefs, the visa application charges (VACs) will be reduced to approximately PGK 75 (AUD 25) per applicant, compared to current charges of up to PGK 1,300 (AUD 430).
For PNG Chiefs’ fans, this means eligibility to apply for a PGK 75 visitor visa, valid for up to 12 months, allowing multiple short stays to attend games throughout the NRL season.
The Australian Government will launch a new one stop shop website dedicated to providing information and resources for PNG Chiefs players, staff, officials, fans and media to apply for visas.
Australia will also establish specialist visa processing teams to deliver expedient visa decisions when the PNG Chiefs visa arrangements commence in 2028.
The new package builds on mobility initiatives already in place, including the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), which provides permanent residence opportunities for PNG nationals, and the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, which offers pathways for PNG workers to take up jobs in Australia.
This visa package will also provide a significant boost to the Australian economy through increased tourism and creating new opportunities for local businesses.
The PNG Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko, thanked the Australian Government for working with Papua New Guinea and its Government on this.
“It is a win-win situation, a win for Australia, a win for Papua New Guinea, a win for the Chiefs in sports in PNG and Australia.”
“And it brings a wonderful relationship even closer together than ever before.”
Meanwhile, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sports, Kinoka Feo, stated that this is a massive announcement and is certain that people around the world, the country, and more importantly, the rural folks, will be excited when they hear this and the affordability of the visa as well.
“You know, Papua New Guineans love Rugby League, and it is the one common denominator, as far as our Prime Minister says, that unites this country.”
“I am sure you will see crowds and I know that all Papua New Guineans will go in numbers to support our team come game day.”
On the other hand, Australian Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke, shared similar sentiments stating that the friendship between Australia and Papua New Guinea is driven by shared passion for sport, deepening of people-to-people links and building a stronger, more connected region.
“The PNG Chiefs joining the NRL is more than a sporting milestone, it is a symbol of friendship and partnership.”
“I want to thank Prime Minister James Marape for his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment in making this historic initiative a reality.”
“With the PNG Chiefs running onto the field in 2028, we are ensuring a level playing field, tackling the same issues, and striving for success, side by side and step by step.”
