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.
A new divisional era
From 2026, Senior rugby will operate under a two-division model, headlined by the Dewar Shield and Ward Shield, with promotion and relegation ensuring performance is rewarded and ambition remains alive throughout the season. In addition Premier 3rds, Conference, Lindroth and Bolton Cup competitions will also be fixtured.
The opening phase of the Dewar Shield will feature six Clubs: Melbourne, Harlequins, Footscray, Endeavour Hills, Power House and one final contender to be decided through a preseason play-off.
That play-off will see Box Hill, Melbourne University, Kiwi Hawthorn and Moorabbin battle it out, with the overall winner earning a coveted place in the Dewar Shield for the opening stanza of the season.
The remaining Clubs – including Southern Districts, Shepparton and Brimbank – will contest the Ward Shield, forming a competitive platform with the opportunity for promotion next season.
After the opening five rounds, the competition sharpens further. The sixth-placed Dewar Shield Club (determined by a combination of First and Second XV points) will face the top-ranked Ward Shield side in a high-stakes crossover play-off. The winner claims a Dewar Shield berth for the remainder of the season; the loser contests the Ward Shield.
Once divisional places are locked in, teams will contest a 10-round Home-and-Away season, followed by a three-week Finals Series, ensuring every match matters deep into the winter rugby season.
A blockbuster start to 2026
The 2026 senior season kicks off on Saturday April 11, with Melbourne launching their campaign at home against the defending Dewar Shield premiers, Power House. That’s a mouth-watering opening clash after the exciting drawn game last year at the same venue.
Back-to-back home fixtures against Footscray and Endeavour Hills follow, before away trips to a play-off Qualifier (TBC) and Harlequins round out the opening five weeks. The remainder of the draw will be confirmed by Rugby Victoria once divisional standings are finalised.
Key President’s Club Dates (TBC)
April 11 – Melbourne v Power House
May 30 – Melbourne v Moorabbin / Melbourne University / Box Hill (TBC)
July 11 – Melbourne v Harlequins
Building momentum on and off the field
Preparation is already well underway and Recruitment has been strong across the Club, with new players already here or set to arrive in the coming weeks.
Preseason training resumed at Gardiner Park following the Australia Day long weekend, with strength and explosive power sessions added at Sweatshop Gym as the squad gears up for a demanding campaign.
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.
Before the competitive season begins, the Club will hit the road for a preseason tour to Albury, taking on Wagga Uni and 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!
If you would like to join the President’s Club, Try Booking will open soon.
