Papua New Guinea is stepping up its preparations for the PNG Chiefs’ historic entry into the National Rugby League, with Prime Minister James Marape announcing a tax-free salary incentive aimed at attracting elite players, coaches and technical staff to the new franchise.
The announcement marks a significant move in the government’s efforts to build a competitive team capable of representing the nation when the Chiefs enter the NRL in 2028.
Marape revealed the incentive during the official opening of the club’s headquarters at the Santos National Football Stadium complex in Port Moresby, signalling the government’s commitment to helping establish the country’s first NRL franchise.
“The salary you are contracted to is non-taxable,” Marape said, confirming that the arrangement would cover players, coaches and technical personnel.
A major incentive in the recruitment race
With the countdown to 2028 underway, attracting top-level rugby league talent will be one of the Chiefs’ biggest priorities.
The tax-free salary initiative is designed to strengthen the club’s appeal in a highly competitive player market, where established NRL clubs are also competing for experienced players and coaching talent.
The incentive is also expected to extend beyond the playing squad, covering relevant franchise operations and development pathways connected to the SP PNG Hunters system.
For the Chiefs, the challenge now is to turn that financial advantage into a strong foundation — one that combines experienced professionals, emerging Papua New Guinean talent and a long-term commitment to developing the next generation of players.
Building a franchise for the nation
The opening of the headquarters represents another important step in the establishment of the PNG Chiefs, bringing together key figures responsible for guiding the club towards its inaugural NRL season.
Among those attending were club chairperson Catherine Harris, general manager Michael Chammas, chief executive officer Lorna McPherson, board members Marcus Bai, Ian Tarutia and Richard Pegum, PNG Rugby Football League chairman Stanis Tsaka, and Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald.
Marape also reaffirmed the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with the NRL as the Chiefs build their structures, systems and professional standards.
He acknowledged the league’s experience in running elite rugby league competitions and said its continued connection with Papua New Guinea would be valuable during the franchise’s early development.
Preparing Port Moresby for the NRL spotlight
Beyond recruitment and team development, the government says preparations are also being made to ensure Port Moresby is ready to welcome visiting teams, officials and supporters.
Marape highlighted cooperation with the National Capital District Commission to improve public safety and the city’s overall presentation ahead of the Chiefs’ home fixtures.
Plans to improve tourism facilities in Central and Milne Bay provinces were also outlined, with the aim of encouraging visiting supporters to experience more of Papua New Guinea during their stay.
The preparations underline the broader significance of the Chiefs’ arrival in the NRL. Their entry is not only a sporting milestone but also an opportunity to showcase Papua New Guinea to an international audience.
The road to 2028
The tax-free salary announcement gives the Chiefs another potential advantage as they work to assemble their inaugural squad and establish the foundations of a professional NRL club.
But the real test will come on the field. Recruiting quality players is only one part of the challenge; building team culture, developing local talent and creating a sustainable club will be just as important.
For Papua New Guinea, the ambition is clear: the PNG Chiefs must be more than a new team in the competition. They must represent the country’s rugby league passion, national pride and hopes for the next generation.
With 2028 drawing closer, the work to turn that ambition into reality is gathering momentum.
Author: Michael B