Rugby Australia announces postponement of 2020 community seasons

In a statement released on Monday evening, RA said the decision had been made following a meeting of the National Development Panel, and it was "unanimously agreed" by all state and territory member unions.

Though RA's statement does not explicitly name COVID-19 as the cause of the delay, it follows a similar statement from the Brumbies two days earlier which announced the suspension of all upcoming Brumbies fixtures for the foreseeable future due to the pandemic.

RA's announcement includes matches, training, and face-to-face rugby education courses.

Locally, the postponement will impact the South Coast Monaro Second Division competition, which was scheduled to start on April 18.

This competition includes Yass, Crookwell, Taralga, Braidwood, and Bungendore among a smattering of other Canberra and coastal teams.

In its statement, RA said the decision had not been made lightly, but its first priority was the health of its players and supporters.

"[This decision] has been made with the interests of the participants, families and the broader community as the priority," RA said.

"In arriving at this decision, Rugby Australia and the Member Unions have considered public health information and the advice of the Rugby Australia Chief Medical Officer, Dr Warren McDonald."

Instead of the full season, RA and the individual state bodies have proposed a modified season which they intend to begin in early May.

"Rugby Australia and the Member Unions are fully committed to supporting the game through this difficult time," RA said.

"The modified season will vary at a local level to best support the needs of our local Rugby communities.

"It is acknowledged that there are a variety of Rugby competitions underway and Rugby Australia will work closely with Member Unions to minimise this disruption."

The National Development Panel said it will monitor the situation and announce updates to the rugby community as soon as they are available.