Expansion Clubs

The National Rugby League is undergoing its most significant period of growth since the early 2000s, with new franchises set to enter the competition in Western Australia and Papua New Guinea.

Below is a complete overview of the NRL’s confirmed expansion clubs, including entry timelines, leadership structure and their foundation squads as they prepare for debut seasons in 2027 and 2028.

While expansion clubs prepare for future entry, the 2026 NRL season is ongoing with weekly match previews, team news and results.

→ Follow the 2026 NRL season and current round coverage

Confirmed Expansion Clubs

Perth Bears (NRL entry: 2027)

Location: Perth, Western Australia
Status: Confirmed — entering competition in 2027
Head Coach: Mal Meninga
Background:
The Perth Bears mark the return of top‑flight rugby league to Western Australia for the first time since the Western Reds folded in the 1990s. The franchise blends a WA base with historic ties to the North Sydney Bears and has focused on building a stable playing roster ahead of its inaugural season.

Key details

• Home ground: Perth Rectangular Stadium (HBF Park)
• Pathways focus: Bear Tracks academy launched in WA

👉 Read more: Perth Bears – Squad, Signings, Coach & Entry Details

PNG Chiefs (NRL entry: 2028)

Location: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Status: Confirmed — entering competition in 2028
Head Coach: Willie Peters
Background:
The Papua New Guinea Chiefs will become the first PNG‑based team to compete in the NRL, backed by a long‑term partnership between the NRL, the Australian Government and PNG Government. Rugby league is the country’s national sport, and the Chiefs are positioned as both a competitive and cultural expansion of the game.

Key details

• Home ground: National Football Stadium
• Marquee signing: Jarome Luai (confirmed for 2028)
• Strategic advantage: Tax‑free salary concessions

👉 Read more: PNG Chiefs – Squad, Signings, Coach & Entry Details

Expansion Timeline

Related

Future Expansion hub