Staff from The Australian Defence Force (ADF) Sports Branch will arrive in Tonga to deliver a sports development program under the ADF International Sports Program from 16–20 March 2026. The last program was in 2023.
The visit will highlight Australia’s longstanding partnership with Tonga and will reflect Defence and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) coordinated efforts to strengthen regional relationships and sporting capability ahead of the 2031 Pacific Island Games in Tonga and the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.
Throughout the visit, ADF coaches and sports trainers will work alongside His Majesty’s Armed Forces and local sporting bodies to share knowledge in rugby union, cricket and sports training.
Planned activities will include practical coaching sessions, introductory cricket programs and a sports trainer package covering first aid, nutrition, musculoskeletal basics and sports taping.
Colonel Richard Watson, Officer in Charge of the activity, said the program will be designed to deepen peopletopeople links and support Tonga’s sporting pathways.
“Sport is a passion shared by Australia and Tonga, and it will continue to bring our communities closer together. These engagements will strengthen local capability, support future athletes and officials, and help build the foundations for longterm sporting development,” Colonel Watson said.
The program will also support broader regional objectives, including healthier communities, youth development, gender equality and social cohesion.
While open to everyone, activities will be designed to ensure women and girls have opportunities to participate. This inclusive approach will reflect Australia’s commitment to supporting diverse and resilient Pacific communities.
“It’s not just athletes who make sport possible, by working with coaches, trainers, referees and administrators, we will help build the essential skills needed to deliver competitions at every level,” he said. Sport will remain a powerful platform for connection, dialogue and trustbuilding across the Pacific.
Through the PacificAus Sports and Team Up initiatives, Australia will continue partnering with Pacific nations to support community wellbeing, strengthen local capability and foster closer regional ties.
The ADF will look forward to a productive and enjoyable week of shared learning, competition and engagement with Tonga and His Majesty’s Armed Forces.
