Outback Arts have jumped on board the 2026 NRL jersey competition encouraging regional Indigenous artists to take part and be a part of next year’s event.

“Outback Arts is excited to share a fantastic opportunity for Indigenous artists in our outback regions! 

“The NRL is calling for artwork submissions to be featured in the 2026 Indigenous All-Stars merchandise ranges, and we encourage all local Indigenous artists to apply," Outback Arts spokesperson Brailey Lambe said.

“This is a unique chance to showcase your talent, tell your story, and see your art celebrate both culture and sport," she said.

“We’re urging all interested artists to take part – it could be your artwork on the merchandise! Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to represent our area."

Outback Arts Spokesperson Brailey Lambe - Image Outback Arts

Initiated by the Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council (ARLIC) artwork submitted for consideration will, if successful, be incorporated within the 2026 Indigenous All-Stars merchandise ranges, including the admired Men’s and Women’s Indigenous All-Stars players jerseys.

“The Harvey Norman All Stars event is a celebration of excellence on and off the field,” according to the National Rugby League. “All Stars is a week-long celebration of Rugby League’s commitment to Indigenous Australia.”

Indigenous All Stars jersey design showcases connection to country, Indigenous artist Jakita Saunders of the Wakka Wakka and Widi nation designed the artwork which prominently features rivers and waterways, mountains, and coral reefs. The leaves represent plant life and the handprints represent a sense of belonging to country - Image courtesy NRL

“What a great chance to be part of something big,” said a western area Indigenous artist. “There is no age or skill limit, and everyone can take part.

“Hopefully all the great Indigenous artists in our area, young and old, submit to this competition.”

“With Rugby League playing such a prominent part in bush culture, it would be amazing to see a local artist featured on the big stage,” she said.

2025 NRL All-Stars Jersey - Image courtesy NRL

The selected artist will receive a $5,000 fee for granting an exclusive license to ARLC for the use of their design on the 2026 Indigenous All-Stars Men’s and Women’s jerseys, as well as selected products in the 2026 Indigenous All-Stars Merchandise program. The design may also be used for other commercial or non-commercial purposes by ARLC and/or NRL.

The successful artist will also be supplied, free of charge, with one (1) full set of the merchandise range featuring their design winning design and be invited to various 2026 All Stars match related events including the 2026 All Stars Match.

Artwork Brief

Submissions may be in the form of artwork, illustration or graphic design and are to tell the story of the NRL All-Stars event, the teams participating and recognise and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture within the Rugby League community.

Organisers ask that the artwork submitted must be authentic and original and represent all players of both the men and women’s Indigenous All-Star teams, while capturing the spirit and passion of the players.

MORE INFORMATION HERE : https://www.nrl.com/community/2026-indigenous-all-stars/how-to-apply/