About Us
Wheelchair Rugby League – Our Sport
Wheelchair Rugby League is an inclusive sport that welcomes participants with and without disabilities.
Our wheelchair-based sport is a variation of the traditional Rugby League running game, allowing athletes of all abilities to compete alongside each other.
Wheelchair Rugby League’s inclusiveness has made it immensely popular, offering a unique level playing field that few other sports can provide.
Participants with and without disability can play on the same team as their siblings, friends, family and colleagues.
Wheelchair Rugby League Australia
In Australia, the governing body for the sport is Wheelchair Rugby League Australia (WRLA). We are supported by a network of State and Territory member organisations and passionate and dedicated volunteers who deliver Wheelchair Rugby League at grassroots and local levels across most of Australia.
Since 2010, WRLA has run seasonal competitions and the annual State Challenge. It has organised for our national team, the Wheelaroos, to participate in international competitions, including test series and the Rugby League World Cup.
The organisation:
- Is an affiliate of the National Rugby League
- Is a registered charity with DGR status
- Provides a safe and positive environment
- Fosters good sportsmanship
- Supports self-development of participants
- Encourages regular social interaction.
Our leadership team has extensive experience running inclusive sports competitions and programs.
Our Journey
Wheelchair Rugby League Australia was established in 2010, following the work of the Wheelchair Rugby League Association, which had been founded in 2009.
WRLA was created to:
- Ensure Wheelchair Rugby League is recognised in Australia as an inclusive sport for all communities
- Provide representative pathways
- Contribute to making Wheelchair Rugby League a global sport.
Since its inception, WRLA has worked tirelessly to raise awareness, increase the number of athletes, particularly those with disabilities, and support all participants, including players, referees, coaches, and sports administrators.
Get Involved with Wheelchair Rugby League
At the heart of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia (WRLA) is our dedication to fostering the growth and inclusivity of the sport. Our Junior Development Activities nurture young talent through seasonal camps, clinics, and school partnerships that integrate Wheelchair Rugby League into physical education programs.
We are committed to expanding the sport through new competitions, supporting regional leagues to increase grassroots participation.
Our targeted development programs identify and nurture talented players, encourage participation from under-represented groups, and engage local communities through demonstrations and events.
Our high-performance initiatives include coaching education, player development, and mentorship programs.
To achieve continued growth, we forge strategic partnerships with organisations, disability advocacy groups, and educational institutions to support grant-funded projects like Rolling Regions and Play Well. Our media and marketing campaigns promote the sport, while research and development explore its benefits.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be the preeminent wheelchair sport in Australia, from grassroots to elite levels.
Our Mission
We administer, promote, and develop Wheelchair Rugby League, providing opportunities for all.
Our Strategic Pillars
WRLA’s Strategic Plan (2024–2027) focuses on enhancing participation and pathways, increasing visibility and engagement, building sustainable partnerships, and ensuring strong governance and sustainability. For detailed information, please refer to the 2024-2027 Strategic Plan below.
TO VIEW THE STRATEGIC PLAN CLICK ON THE IMAGE.