The aim: to give the players a competitive edge when Singapore hosts the World Championship in 2011.

According to Singapore coach Lisa Beehag, the Republic have been invited by Netball Australia to play in the 2009 edition of the Australia National League (ANL).

The ANL, which will begin its inaugural season in August, is the second-most prestigious league in Australia, after the ANZ Championship.

It features 10 state teams, who will play each other over a six-week period.

Singapore are likely to play a few invitational ANL games in September, before joining the league as full-fledged participants next year.

Said Beehag: 'Netball Australia has issued an invitation to us. They wanted to help develop the sport in the Asian region, so the opportunity was there.''

Netball Singapore is ironing out details with its Australian counterpart.

If the move is confirmed, Singapore will become the first Asian team to compete in an Australian league.

Australia is a netball superpower, having won the World Championship last year.

'It's all about baby steps,' said Beehag. 'We've got to get in there and get used to the idea of playing in a league. Then we can take the next step.'

The coach added that the team should work hard to be included in the top-flight ANZ Championship.

For now, the Singapore side are likely to face stiff competition in the ANL, though it is considered a developmental league in Australia.

Top youngsters from the various states are likely to play in it before they make the step up to the ANZ Championship.

Said Beehag: 'They have a lot of good up-and-coming players, so the standards are very high.

'But I think our girls will compete very well, and on equal terms.'

Details of their invitational appearances this year have not been finalised, though the team are likely to be based in Western Australia.

Playing in a regular competition can only help Singapore when they stage the next World Championship in 2011, said Beehag.

'The week-in, week-out competition at that high level, along with the training, will improve the team,' she explained. 'Our ultimate goal is to do well in 2011.'

The plan to move Down Under has also got the national team buzzing.

'Such a competition is definitely good for our all-round game. Their standard is much higher than our regular competitions here,' said national co-captain Jean Ng.

Her teammate, defender Premila Hirubalan, agreed that the national side need keener competition in order to reach new heights.

'We cannot depend on local competitions any more,' she said.

'What we need is international exposure. and the experience of playing without home support. This move will be well worth the time, effort and money spent.'

tvoon@sph.com.sg