The NRL has announced Women's Rugby League major fixtures for 2019, following a series of new events for the women's game in 2018.
In addition to local and state competitions, highlights include:
• A four-week NRL Holden Women's Premiership, featuring the Broncos, Dragons, Roosters and Warriors and coinciding with the men's Finals Series
• A stand-alone Holden Women's State of Origin match on Friday 21 June at North Sydney Oval
• The NRL Harvey Norman Women's National Championship, played on the Gold Coast between 30 May – 2 June
• Indigenous and Maori All Stars teams playing as part of the NRL Harvey Norman All Stars double-header on Friday 15 February at AAMI Park in Melbourne
• Four international women's teams competing as part of the Downer World Cup Nines tournament to be played at Bankwest Stadium in Sydney in October
The Harvey Norman Jillaroos and an Australian Prime Minister's XIII will also take part in international fixtures towards the end of next year.
NRL General Manager of the Women's Elite Program, Tiffany Slater said the support of Women's Rugby League had continued to grow throughout 2018.
"The focus for 2019 is to consolidate on the success of this year and continue to grow our game from grassroots players, right through to support for our marquee events, including State of Origin, the Premiership and our Jillaroos," Ms Slater said.
"In speaking with our stakeholders and importantly, our players over the past few months, the overwhelming response is that we're on the right path and to keep expansion of the game in check with our participation numbers and player wellbeing top of mind.
"It's been pleasing to witness the increasing groundswell of support for women's rugby league over the past year in particular.
"Millions of fans tuned in or turned up to support our game in 2018, the coverage from our broadcasters and the media in general was fantastic and we've continued to see an increase in females playing and participating.
"The more support that women's rugby league gains along the way, the greater the long-term opportunities and increased competition."
