Victorian senior rugby is set for a fresh chapter in 2026, with Rugby Victoria unveiling a revamped competition structure designed to deliver tighter contests and a better experience for everyone involved.
Following an extensive review at the conclusion of the 2025 season, Rugby Victoria identified the need for change. The solution? A streamlined, senior competition structure that puts rugby front and centre.
Moving towards divisional rugby
This year will be a transitional season with the aim to have divisional rugby in place by 2028.
In 2026, the Rugby Victoria Championship will be introduced, followed by a split into a two-division model, headlined by the Dewar Shield and Ward Shield. In addition Premier 3rd Grade, Conference, Lindroth and Bolton Cup competitions will also be fixtured.
The opening phase of the competition will feature ten Clubs. Brimbank will join Melbourne, Power House, Harlequins, Footscray, Endeavour Hills, Moorabbin, Box Hill, Melbourne University and Kiwi Hawthorn. All Clubs will battle it out in 1st and 2nd Grade, with the overall winner after nine rounds awarded the Rugby Victoria Championship.
Following this the competition will split into two divisions with five Clubs in each division. The top five Clubs will play for the Dewar Shield and the bottom five Clubs will play for the Ward Shield. A combination of First and Second Grade points will determine ladder positions.
Once Dewar Shield and Ward Shield Clubs are locked in, teams will contest another four rounds Home-and-Away. Followed by a four-week Finals Series, ensuring every match matters deep into the winter rugby season.
Premier 3rd Grade will be introduced in 2026 with six Clubs battling it out for the cup. Most matches will be aligned with our Men‘s 1st and 2nd XV teams.
A blockbuster start to 2026
The 2026 senior season kicks off on Saturday April 11, with Melbourne launching their campaign at home against Endeavour Hills. Followed by a home fixture against Box Hill, before away trips to Brimbank and Footscray.
Key President’s Club Dates
April 18 – Melbourne v Box Hill
May 16 – Melbourne v Power House
July 4 – Melbourne v Harlequins (TBA)
Building momentum on and off the field
Preparation is already well underway and recruitment has been strong across the Club.
Preseason training is on-going at Gardiner Park with good numbers in all grades. Strength and explosive power sessions have been added at Sweatshop Gym as the squad gears up for a demanding campaign. Training sessions move back to Orrong Romanis Reserve on Tuesday 31 March, 2026.
There’s also plenty of optimism around the Women’s program, which continues to grow. While the Colts squad will benefit from a strong influx of returning junior players transitioning into senior rugby.
In late March, the Club will hit the road for a preseason tour to Canberra (Ngunnawal), taking on the Wests Lions. An ideal test ahead of what promises to be an exciting and renewed rugby season.
With a new structure and renewed energy across all levels, senior rugby in Victoria is ready to make 2026 one to remember.
2026 Memberships are now open
Players and Social Members can register through the Rugby Xplorer App » Join Now!
2026 President’s Club Memberships are now open
Membership includes 3 Lunches on the sideline at Orrong Park, » Join Now
