The National Rugby League (NRL) will work with the Australian Government to promote and encourage the use of its Coronavirus Contact App which will help trace the virus.
The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has pledged to support the use of the app which will play a vital role in alerting people if they have come in close contact with someone diagnosed with coronavirus. That will help keep the community safe from further spread of coronavirus and ultimately accelerate the removal of current restrictions on the community and businesses.
The decision is consistent with the NRL's ongoing commitment to playing a leadership role in issues of public health and safety.
The contact app will allow health officials to tell if someone has come into close contact with someone who is diagnosed with coronavirus. If a person becomes infected with coronavirus, the app will assist health officials to notify people they have been in close contact with so they can self-quarantine and be tested.
The Commission also agreed to work with the RLPA (Rugby League Players Association) in promoting the technology.
ARLC Chairman Peter V'landys said the app was an important tool and the game would look to use its footprint to encourage Australians to download it.
"This app is a simple, genius idea that can help protect public health and eradicate the virus," Mr V'landys said.
"We absolutely believe in the importance of the community health message and are proud to work with the government to promote it far and wide.
"Right from the start of this pandemic we acknowledged the important role our sport, and the role models in our game, can play in helping authorities get important messages to the public so we can beat this virus."
RLPA Chief Executive Clint Newton said the app was an important initiative.
"Together with the NRL and Australian Government, we will look to identify further opportunities for our members to continue promoting important public health initiatives," Mr Newton said.
"The RLPA will always explore anything that may enhance the health and safety of players, their families and the wider community.
"We will continue discussions with our leading players in the coming days regarding the role they can play in supporting the COVID-19 app."
