The Canberra Raiders are one of four expansion teams set to join the NRLW in 2023 after being granted a licence.
Canberra, along with the Cowboys, Sharks and Tigers, will join the growing competition next year, which will see the women’s league expanded from six to 10 teams.
The NRLW started in 2018 with four clubs, and added two further teams earlier this year.
The NRL had initially planned to go to eight teams in 2023 and then 10 in 2024, but has opted to fast-track the competition’s growth.
“We have a blueprint for investing in the women’s game at all levels,” said ARL commission chairman Peter V’landys.
“We have seen from with the quality of the 2021 NRLW premiership and the tremendous growth in female participation that we have capacity for sustainable growth.”
Raiders CEO Don Furner said the inclusion of Canberra in the NRLW was a very proud moment for the club.
“The Raiders are very excited about joining the NRLW competition for the first time in 2023 and now that we’ve been accepted, we’re looking forward to building our squad and assembling our team for next season,” Furner said.
“Having a team in the NRLW has been a huge focus for our club and now that we’ve been granted a licence, we look forward to providing a pathway for local female participants to play at the elite level.
“We’re also extremely thankful to the ACT Government for their assistance and backing during the bid process and we look forward to bringing matches to Canberra for our members and fans next season.”
ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said the announcement will help inspire young girls to continue with their sporting dreams.
“Women’s sport continues to grow in Canberra and now with an NRLW Raiders team, more younger women and girls can be inspired to continue to play league – or any sport – throughout their life. You don’t have to stop playing in high school, uni or when you start work,” Berry said.
“The ACT Government is absolutely committed to making sure there are more opportunities for women to continue to play sport and I can’t wait to be at the first game to see them play!”
The announcement comes just days out from the Women’s State of Origin to be played at GIO Stadium on Friday 24 June, the first time the game will be played on neutral territory.
“I really encourage Canberrans to get out to GIO Stadium for what will be a great game, and a sign of things to come for women’s sport in 2023,” said Berry.
