The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has secured a landmark deal with the Western Australian Government. The agreement confirms Perth as the home of the NRL’s 18th team. The new franchise will join the NRL Telstra Premiership in 2027. ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM announced the deal in partnership with WA Premier Roger Cook.
Return of the Bears with Western Expansion
Mr V’landys described the agreement as a watershed moment for the sport. He confirmed the new team would incorporate the heritage of the North Sydney Bears. “Rugby League is the biggest sport in Australia and the Pacific,” Mr V’landys said. “A team in the economic powerhouse of Western Australia is a natural fit.” He added, “Why should West Australian fans miss out on the greatest game for all?”
The Bears were a foundation club and remain a symbol of traditional rugby league. Mr V’landys said the Perth team would combine the Bears’ legacy with WA’s sporting enthusiasm. “The heritage of the Bears combined with the energy of the West will have this team flying from the outset,” he said.
Growing Appetite for Rugby League in WA
Mr V’landys highlighted strong attendances at NRL and State of Origin games held in WA. “Western Australians love sport,” he said. “Now they have the opportunity to get behind a Perth based Rugby League Club.” He stated the team would attract fans nationally and energise the competition.
The NRL has seen growing interest in Western Australia over recent years. Mr V’landys said the new team would strengthen that connection. “This is not just about a team in Perth. It’s about building the game across the entire state,” he said.
Major Boost for Grassroots Rugby League
The agreement aims to double Rugby League participation in WA over five years. Mr V’landys thanked Premier Roger Cook for supporting this vision. “Thanks to Roger Cook and the Government’s partnership and investment, we expect to double Rugby League participation,” he said.
Currently, 240 schools in WA offer Rugby League programs. Mr V’landys said that figure could rise to over 500 with Government support. “This investment will return much economic benefit to the West Australian economy,” he said.
Longstanding Western Australian Rugby League Legacy
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the game has a 77-year history in WA. He described the announcement as a significant milestone for the game. “There has never been a more exciting time to be part of Rugby League,” Mr Abdo said.
He said the WA-based team would inspire support across the country. “We are excited for sports fans in Western Australia and the country,” Mr Abdo said. He thanked the Premier and Government for their commitment to the sport.
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Economic Impact for Western Australia
Premier Roger Cook said the team would generate jobs and new perth economic activity. He said the WA brand would benefit from national and global exposure. “A new WA NRL club will deliver jobs and new economic activity,” Premier Cook said. “It will include a boost in tourism and visitation.”
He called the announcement a great day for WA sport and the economy. “I’d like to thank the ARLC for the robust negotiations we’ve undertaken,” he said. “Both parties have sought to get the best deal for our stakeholders.”
Looking Ahead to 2027 Debut
The Perth-based team is expected to enter the NRL in the 2027 season. Planning and perth operational steps will now begin between ARLC and the WA Government. Rugby League officials hope to complete recruitment and branding over the coming years.
This development marks a strategic expansion for the NRL. It reflects rising interest in the code across Western Australia. With strong community support and Government investment, the Perth team aims to become a force in the national competition. The partnership sets the stage for a new chapter in Australian Rugby League history.
