Nationals netball finalists to face New Zealand rivals 

The top two women’s netball teams at UniSport Nationals 2026 will qualify to face two New Zealand university teams in the next ANZUSS Series. 

Hosted by the University of Technology Sydney from 24 November to 1 December, the competition will bring the series to Australia for the first time following its debut in Auckland last year. 

The event follows the renewal of the Collaborative Agreement between UniSport Australia and University and Tertiary Sport New Zealand (UTSNZ). The agreement supports trans-Tasman competition, staff development and the sharing of knowledge between universities in both countries. 

UniSport Australia Chief Executive Officer Mark Sinderberry said the ANZUSS Series showed what the two organisations could deliver for students and member universities. 

“The teams finishing first and second at Nationals will earn the chance to represent their university against international opposition on home soil,” Sinderberry said. 

“This is exactly what working with UTSNZ can deliver: international competition for students and closer ties between universities on both sides of the Tasman.” 

“Australia and New Zealand share a proud sporting history, and that extends to university sport. We want to create more chances for students to compete internationally, experience another culture and meet people beyond their own university.” 

The inaugural ANZUSS (Australian and New Zealand University Sport) Series was held in Auckland in 2025. 

Australian Catholic University and the University of Technology Sydney competed against Auckland University of Technology and the University of Auckland. The week-long visit included competition, training and cultural activities for students and university staff. 

Two UTSNZ universities will travel to Australia for the 2026 series, while the organisations are also considering adding other sports in 2027. 

UTSNZ Executive Director Sarah Anderson said the renewed agreement would allow the organisations to build on their longstanding relationship. 

“UTSNZ and UniSport Australia have a great history of working together, and this agreement reflects our intention to strengthen those ties,” Anderson said. 

“The 2025 netball exchange showed what our organisations and member universities can achieve. Students had the chance to compete internationally, experience another country and form relationships that can continue after the competition. 

“We are looking forward to the return series in Australia and exploring further possibilities across events, staff development and international university sport.” 

UniSport Australia and UTSNZ also support each other through the FISU World University Games and other international events. 

UTSNZ representatives and members regularly attend UniSport Australia’s annual conference, where university sport professionals from both countries share ideas, discuss common challenges and learn from one another. 

The renewed agreement will help the organisations continue this work and develop new trans-Tasman competitions and learning opportunities.