Parramatta Eels | NRLW Leader
Mahalia Murphy is a proud Kamilaroi woman with strong family ties to Walgett in northern New South Wales. Raised in Sydney’s western suburbs, she has always had a deep connection to sport, initially competing in athletics after being inspired by Cathy Freeman at a young age.
Junior Club: Doonside Roos
Club: Parramatta Eels
Position: Second Row
Career Highlights:
- 2015 Jillaroos debut, scoring a hat-trick
- 2016 Rio Olympian with Rugby Seven’s
- 2017 Women’s Rugby World cup representative
- 2024 named captain of the Parramatta Eels
- 2026 Community Fellow Award from Western Sydney University
Murphy began her rugby league journey with the Doonside Roos, where her performances quickly led to selection for New South Wales and, soon after, the Australian Jillaroos.
Known for her physicality and strong ball carrying as a second rower, Murphy has built a unique and accomplished career across rugby league, rugby union and rugby sevens. She is among a small group of athletes to have represented Australia at the highest level across all three formats of the game.
Off the field, Murphy’s impact is deeply connected to her work in community. As an Aboriginal Consultant within Child Protection Services, she supports families navigating complex systems, providing culturally appropriate guidance and care. She is also committed to creating opportunities for young Indigenous athletes, regularly running free training sessions to build skills, confidence and connection within community.
Using her platform to give back, Murphy is dedicated to ensuring greater access to rugby league for Indigenous girls, creating pathways and support she did not have growing up. Her connection to community is a defining part of who she is, both as a player and as a leader.
Recognisable for her mismatched boots on the field, Murphy has made the gesture her own, gifting each pair to young fans at the end of every season, a small but meaningful reflection of her commitment to inspiring the next generation.
Cherine Fahd, The Captains [Mahalia’s Socks and Boots], 2026, black-and-white digital image, commissioned by Harvey Norman in partnership with the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 2026