Rugby Australia is committed to advancing the development of rugby in Samoa and other Pacific Island nations through the Veimoana Partnership, a significant five-year initiative aimed at elevating the sport in the region. The partnership was a key focus during discussions between Samoa’s Prime Minister, Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt, and Rugby Australia’s General Manager of Government Relations and Pacific Partnerships, Daniel Millis, along with Cultural Liaison Officer Fa’alafi Pa Enari.
In a recent interview with the Savali Newspaper, Millis expressed optimism about the forthcoming phase of the partnership, emphasizing the collaborative efforts with the governments and rugby organizations of Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. This collective approach aims to create a rugby partnership that is led by the Pacific community and designed specifically for its needs.
“This new partnership model will enhance the rugby exchanges among our countries and will be supported by funding from the Australian government,” stated Millis. The plan includes the establishment of a new rugby competition designed to take place in conjunction with the existing Super Rugby Australia window, allowing Samoa to compete against Australian Super Rugby teams and the Fijian Drua. The proposal also envisions the creation of club rugby sides in both Samoa and Tonga to participate in this competition.
Following a productive meeting with Samoa’s Prime Minister, the next step is to formalize the Veimoana Rugby Partnership proposal, which will be submitted to the Australian government. This proposal is expected to be crafted through a collaborative regional effort from the prime ministers of Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, paving the way for negotiations with the Australian government.
Rugby Australia’s role is not limited to partnership; they will work closely with Oceania Rugby and World Rugby to refine the Veimoana Partnership, exploring what the future may hold through 2027 and beyond, contingent on funding approvals.
The Veimoana Partnership has an estimated budget of $150 million (approximately US$105.72 million), which will span five years. This funding is poised to substantially benefit the rugby initiatives across the region. It focuses on enhancing competitive opportunities for both men’s and women’s rugby between Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and Australian teams.
Moreover, it aims to invest in pathways, high-performance academies, and support various essential off-field roles, including rugby administration and coaching. Millis highlighted Fiji as a successful model, showcasing how the creation of the Fiji Drua strengthened national rugby and fostered economic benefits through home matches, generating an impressive $120 million in revenue last year.
The ultimate aspiration is for Samoa to establish its own Super Rugby team, which would not only enhance the sport locally but also contribute to rugby tourism, benefitting hotels and resorts in the region. Daniel Millis also reinforced the idea that rugby serves as a unifying force among the Pacific nations and Australia, fostering shared achievements and cultural connections.
This promising partnership presents an exciting opportunity for Samoa to strengthen its rugby foundation, grow the sport’s influence in the Pacific, and enhance regional connections through a mutual appreciation of rugby.