'It can be difficult': Ian Roberts backs PNG expansion franchise despite homosexuality laws
Updated . First published at
Questions and concerns have been raised about how the NRL intends to uphold its commitment to inclusion when homosexuality is illegal in Papua New Guinea, with Ian Roberts weighing in.
Last week, PNG was unveiled as the NRL's newest expansion franchise, with the Port Moresby-based team set to enter the competition in 2028.
The $600 million deal with the Australian government will see more than 50 NRL and NRLW players relocate to the Pacific nation with the promise of tax concessions and safe accommodation.
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However, with a growing to-do list to tackle it appears the nation's societal attitudes — which are largely influenced by the teachings of Christianity — toward homosexuality may have been glossed over.
According to section 210 of PNG's Criminal Code, consenting adult men who are found to be guilty of committing same-sex sexual activity face a punishment of up to 14 years imprisonment.
The NRL has participated in the Sydney Mardi Gras with a float in previous years Getty
In June last year, PNG prime minister James Marape declared that despite reports, there was no bill before Parliament to legitimise LGBTQI+ rights in the nation.
He also stated that the Papua New Guinean Parliament was not likely to pass any legislation under his leadership.
On the NRL's website, the governing body states: "The NRL supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people and are vocal supporters of eliminating discrimination against LGBTI people both on and off the field".
The game has implemented several rules, policies and codes to assist in delivering a safe, positive and inclusive environment for LGBTI people.
This includes the NRL's codes of conduct which require all players, parents, coaches, referees, volunteers, spectators and officials to maintain high standards of personal conduct and to be respectful at all times to LGBTI people.
The NRL has also implemented education programs at all levels of the game, and within its organisation, focused on positive behaviours and developing and maintaining respectful relationships.
It is not known if the same programs will be provided for the PNG players with the franchise intent on featuring homegrown talent.
Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, former NRL player Roberts — who remains the only openly gay Australian rugby league player in the past 30 years — said he was keen to work with the competition newcomers.
"This is where sport can really move an issue forward," he said.
"I knew [homosexuality] was illegal in PNG, and internationally that is not uncommon.
"But I'm really happy PNG are joining the NRL competition, and I am more than happy to speak to their players about inclusion, diversity and belonging. The NRL already runs programs for all the clubs about inclusivity, and it will be no different for PNG.
Ian Roberts speaks to media in 2022. Nine
"Culturally I know it can be difficult [for their players]. But I am always open to having conversations and there's no judgment here. People on my side of the conversation have to understand other people's misunderstandings."
When contacted by the Herald, the NRL said it would not comment on the matter.
PaNG league officials were also contacted for comment but had not responded.
