Rugby Australia has thrown their support behind the announcement of funding by the Australian Government for Fiji Rugby Union's high performance programs.
The package will help and support Fiji Rugby's programs to be capable of inclusion in both Super Rugby and Super W as early as next year.
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This was confirmed as Fiji's men's and women's Sevens side play in the Oceania Sevens Tournament in Townsville.
“We would like to thank the Australian Government for its commitment to furthering the development of Rugby in our region and for their support of this weekend’s PacificAus Sports Oceania Rugby Sevens tournament in Townsville," RA CEO Andy Marinos said in a statement.
“We have had the privilege of working with the Australian Government on a number of initiatives through the PacificAus Sports program. It is a powerful tool to aid development pathways in the Pacific.
“Rugby is a huge part of the Fijian way of life, so it is fitting that this funding will assist the Fiji Rugby Union in supporting its high-performance aspirations.”
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Marise Payne believes the deal will be crucial towards the region’s cultural and economic recovery.
“While the health security of our near neighbours remains a critical priority, sport will help facilitate the region’s cultural and economic recovery and help our countries stay connected,” Payne said.
“Pacific nations have some of the most passionate rugby communities in the world and we want to see their talent showcased on the world stage."
Minister for International Development and the Pacific Zed Seselja added the partnership continues to build on the strong relationships between Australia and Fiji both on the off the field.
“Australia and Fiji share a proud history of rugby union exchange, stretching back 70 years,” Minister Seselja said.
“As friends and rivals in sport, we bring out the best in each other.”
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