The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Rugby Football League (RFL), as a full member of the International Rugby League (IRL), is pleased with the completion and the meeting of compliance obligations with the IRL after its 2023 audit submission. Asia Pacific Rugby League (APRL) Chief Operating Officer (COO), Mr. Jeremy Edwards said the APRL Confederation continues to work closely with both the International Rugby League and its members to ensure governance is universally implemented and standards are continually improved. APRL is one of three global confederations that combine to form the IRL. In highlighting one of the sport’s core objectives, Mr. Edwards said it is to improve governance at all levels. “Part of this process is the Annual Membership Audit, which member organizations and the international and regional federations can use as a gauge of progress from year to year. The audit is also a gauge of members’ continuing adherence to the minimum standards for each category of membership.” Following an evaluation of its submission, the PNGRFL was advised that it was compliant with the provisions of full membership. “The PNGRFL is a leader in Asia Pacific and a nation with many years of rugby league tradition and a role model for other nations.” Meanwhile, PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Stanley Hondina said that the game is ever growing and PNG must continue to raise and set standards domestically. “It is important that we stay abreast of the governance requirements and practices on the international front, and meeting the success of this audit is a milestone for our organization," said Hondina. “These are standards that we hold ourselves against at the PNGRFL level.” “We are aware of our journey and that there are key areas that we will continue to work on improving as we keep progressing and will work closely with the IRL in ensuring these areas are addressed this year and going forward,” Hondina added.