PNG security minister assures NRL players Port Moresby will be safe

One of the key concerns about establishing a team in Port Moresby is security for players, coaches, officials and their families, so much so the NRL has already flagged a $100 million compound for them to stay.

According to the federal government’s Smart Traveller advice, average Australian travellers should exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to PNG.

“Rugby league will mitigate the security concerns because everyone has a common agenda, which is to enjoy their rugby league.”

PNG bid chair Wapu Sonk

On January 10, an estimated 22 people were killed during rioting and looting in the capital following protests from security officers about pay.

“Rugby league will mitigate the security concerns because everyone has a common agenda, which is to enjoy their rugby league,” Sonk said. “It will solve some of our social issues, which in turn will help reduce crime rates. It will be transformative.

“People will put their differences aside, they come together, and enjoy the game. People take it [security concerns] out of context because the fans are crazy. They basically come close to the players. Has anyone been hurt? No. They just love the game.”

While Albanese wants to secure PNG’s support as a geopolitical ally in the region, the pitch to the NRL from the bid team is what it can do for the country’s youth.

Former NRL referees boss Tony Archer joined the bid last year and is working out a pathways structure for both clubs and schools.

There are more than 700 registered junior players after nine months.

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“Kids are actually going to school,” Sonk said. “That’s where our talent pool will come from — the schools. You have to be in the schools so we can identify you. We only started last year.

“They’re looking for an opportunity to make it into the Hunters [in the Queensland Cup], the NRL, being a professional player. This will have a huge social impact on our country.”

It remains unclear if PNG will be the first team admitted when the ARL Commission announces its 20-team strategy in coming months.

The PNG bid is adamant it will be ready in 2028 — with Storm flyer Coates to become the face of the new franchise.

Coates, who was born in Port Moresby and has played eight internationals for his country, is signed to the Storm until the end of 2026.

While Wests Tigers centre Justin Olam will be 33, a final season or two for a team that represents his country of birth would be a fairytale finish to his career.

“Genetically, Melanesians mature at a later age – like a fine wine,” Tsiamalili said.

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