If squads will be 30, a genuine second tier comp is a must.
Every club should have 3 grades, like the old days.
NRL, Reserves, NYC (Under 20's)
Personally this system would work better for the players in NYC coming up, they can gradually move up to NRL quality games by going through Reserve Grade.
Have three tiers - 20 in top tier, 30 in second tier, 30 in third tier.
This sytem would allow NRL players to earn top dollars and stay in the code and also allow clubs to maximise the number of quality juniors to stay within reach of the NRL and keep them in the game. It would also mean a better rotation of players in the lower grades to minimise the risk of long term injuries.