Rugby Australia and Defender Launch Equipment Investment for Community Clubs Ahead of 2027 World Cup

Rugby Australia has announced a national grassroots investment program, committing tailored equipment bundles to every community club across the country in partnership with the Australian Government and automotive brand Defender.

Titled the Community Rugby Legacy Equipment Program, the initiative will directly support over 600 clubs nationwide as part of a broader strategic effort to strengthen participation, enhance safety, and build a lasting legacy ahead of the home Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2027 and 2029.

Clubs can select customised packages ranging from matchday essentials to junior and senior training gear, including rugby balls, tackle pads, hit shields, and post pads.

The supported initiative is designed to ensure that the commercial momentum of the upcoming golden decade of international rugby directly benefits grassroots infrastructure.

Emphasising the long-term impact of the rollout, Rugby Australia CEO, Phil Waugh, said: “This is a significant investment in community rugby and every club in the country will feel the benefit.”

“From the bush to the beaches, the equipment provided under this program will help them welcome new players, train safely and grow the game at the grassroots level right across the country.

“With the once-in-a-generation Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2027 and 2029 fast approaching, Rugby Australia is committed to leveraging major events to connect with and expand our great community game.

“This program will ensure the legacy of the Golden Decade reaches every level of rugby in Australia and I would like to thank the Australian Government and Defender for their valued support of community rugby,” Waugh said.

Highligting the government’s focus on women and girls’ participation, Federal Minister for Sport, Hon. Anika Wells, added: “Supporting Rugby Australia’s Community Rugby Legacy Equipment Program is one way we’re helping strengthen participation in sport, especially for women and girls, and deliver tangible outcomes for hundreds of local clubs and communities.”

“Backing major events is about delivering and inspiring junior players to take up and stay involved in sport and the Albanese Government is proud of backing our athletes from playground to podium,” she added.

Reinforcing Defender’s ongoing commercial alignment, JLR Australia managing director, Penny Ferguson, noted: “Defender is proud to support the backbone of Australian rugby. Ensuring every community club has access to essential equipment will make a genuine difference at the grassroots level.”

“This initiative reflects Defender’s commitment to capability, resilience and strengthening the communities that shape the game during rugby’s Golden Decade,” he said.

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