Rugby Australia has shut down club and community rugby until May as a response to the global coronavirus pandemic.

The nationwide postponement of junior, sub-district, women’s and premier club rugby is effective immediately until Saturday, 2 May. It was announced after unanimous agreement from all state and territory unions.

School rugby competitions are not run by the state unions nor included in Monday’s agreement. The final two games of the Super W competition will go ahead as planned, behind closed doors.

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RA issued a statement on Monday afternoon following a meeting of its national development panel.

‘Rugby Australia, along with the state and territory member unions, have unanimously agreed to postpone all community rugby until the first week of May, effective immediately,’ the statement read.

‘This recommendation covers rugby matches, rugby training and face- to-face rugby education courses.

‘Although this decision has not been made lightly, it has been made with the interests of the participants, families and the broader community as the priority.’

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