Australia will increase its investment in the Fijian Drua.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced this while addressing guests at the Vuvale Reunion hosted at the Australian High Commission in Suva this evening.

Albanese says rugby holds a special place in the relationship between Fiji and Australia, describing it as a sport that unites the two nations.

“I am delighted to announce that Australia will increase our investment in the formidable Fijian Drua.”

He said sport has the power to inspire communities, bring people together through both triumph and defeat, and create opportunities for future generations.

Albanese adds Australia’s increased support for the Drua will help showcase Fijian talent at the highest level while inspiring the next generation of grassroots rugby players.

The exact amount of the investment that will go to the Fijian Drua is not clear at this stage.

However, under the new Vuvale Union, Australia has allocated FJ $35 million to fund sport development, including Rugby Union, recognising that the love of sport that unites the two nations.