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Will Genia has expressed interest in helping the PNG Chiefs as he transitions into coaching after his playing career.
Will Genia says he is open to working with the proposed PNG Chiefs in any capacity as he looks to shape the next phase of his career following a long stint in Japan.
The former Wallabies captain retired from playing last year and will also finish his role as skills coach with the Kintetsu Liners at the end of the current season.
The 38-year-old plans to return to Brisbane but remains keen to stay involved in coaching.
Genia said he would welcome an opportunity to contribute to the PNG Chiefs project, an NRL expansion side targeting entry in 2028.
He indicated he could assist in mentoring, talent identification or broader development roles as the club builds its foundations.
A dual citizen with strong ties to Papua New Guinea, Genia's connection to the country runs deep. His father, Kilroy, served as a cabinet minister, and Genia continues to work as an ambassador for the Kokoda Track Foundation.
His family links remain active, with his daughter attending school in PNG.
He acknowledged the scale of the task facing the Chiefs, particularly in establishing pathways, infrastructure and a sustainable professional system.
Genia suggested those early stages would require significant support and experience from across the game.
Reflecting on regional rugby challenges, he pointed to the situation involving Moana Pasifika and the earlier removal of the Melbourne Rebels as examples of how fragile development pathways can be when teams exit competitions.
Genia has recently been involved in coaching alongside former teammate Quade Cooper, helping guide Kintetsu to the top of Japan's second division.
He said the experience has strengthened his interest in coaching, particularly in understanding the game from a broader, strategic perspective.
He added that he hopes to continue building his coaching knowledge and remain involved in high-performance environments, with a long-term aim of contributing to player development and organisational growth.