Organisers claim the partnership will further elevate this year’s tournament with the competition set to be held as a stand-alone event for the first time.

Harvey Norman’s involvement in supporting the women’s game from grassroots through to the elite level was praised, with the company having made a long-term investment to the women’s game.

“The Rugby League World Cup 2017 Organising Committee and Rugby League International Federation are delighted to welcome Harvey Norman as the major partner of this year’s historic Women’s Rugby League World Cup, and with their support we look forward to showcasing women’s Rugby League to a wider audience,” said Andrew Hill, Rugby League World Cup 2017 chief executive.

“Harvey Norman, under the stewardship of Katie Page, have been great advocates for women in sport and leadership, both at a grassroots and domestic level, and it’s fantastic to see them extend this support to the international stage.

“Not only do we want this to be a memorable event for all involved, but we want this tournament to set a successful framework for future Rugby League World Cups to build upon as the women’s international game evolves.”

Australia, Canada, Cook Islands, England, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea are due to contest the competition.

The tournament will be played alongside the men’s event for the first time, with finals set to be played as a double header in Brisbane on December 2.

As part of the agreement, Harvey Norman will receive brand integration through on field grass logos and in-stadia signage at Southern Cross Group Stadium in Cronulla.

The venue will host the pool stage of the tournament, as well as the semi-finals.

“It is less than a week since the Harvey Norman Jillaroos won the ANZAC Test against the Kiwi Ferns in such a sensational game and it gives us all a sense of what we have to look forward to with the Women’s Rugby League World Cup,” said Page, Harvey Norman chief executive.

“Harvey Norman recently announced our support of both the NSW Rugby League and Queensland Rugby League female pathways programs and we have been the naming rights partner of the Jillaroos since 2015.

“Now, as the official major partner of this year’s Women’s Rugby League World Cup, Harvey Norman can support our female athletes, and those that make their training and development possible, up through the ranks to the highest level of competition.

“Every young girl and woman with a passion for playing Rugby League will be inspired to excel when they see first-hand how far they can go if they have the talent and the determination.”

The Women’s Rugby League World Cup will take place from November 16 to December 2.

Australia are the defending champions after they beat New Zealand 22-12 in the 2013 final in England.