AFL and NRL prepare for major club expansions

Three new professional sports clubs are set to launch in Australia and Papua New Guinea, marking a period of expansion for the Australian Football League (AFL) and the National Rugby League (NRL).

The Tasmania Devils are scheduled to join the AFL/AFLW in 2028. To support the club's viability, the Tasmanian government has reportedly committed to underwriting the team with A$12 million annually and funding a significant portion of a new stadium project.

In the NRL, the Perth Bears (NRL and NRLW) are expected to launch in 2027, expanding the league's footprint to Western Australia by reviving the historic North Sydney Bears moniker. Additionally, the Papua New Guinea Chiefs are slated to join the NRL in 2028.