Rugby Australia Grapples with $9.2 Million Deficit in 2023 Amid Challenges and Investments
Rugby Australia (RA) has announced a substantial $9.2 million deficit for the 2023 financial year, as the governing body navigates a challenging period marked by significant investments and the impact of the Rugby World Cup.
The loss was partly attributed to a $11.5 million investment during the World Cup year, which included an unapproved $2.6 million overspend on Eddie Jones’ unsuccessful campaign with the England national rugby union team in France.
The 2023 financial results, revealed following RA’s annual general meeting in Sydney, also showed a $4.9 million reduction in revenue, largely due to decreased match-day earnings from hosting only two home Wallabies Tests, compared to six in 2022.
RA cited additional high-performance investments in the Wallabies, Wallaroos, and Australia A programs, increased spending in the Super W competition, and higher player payments stemming from a new collective bargaining agreement as contributors to the deficit.
“2024 will bring its own challenges, including the unplanned cost of the Melbourne Rebels, as well as additional investments and distributions. However, I am optimistic for the future, buoyed by exceptional ticket sales for the upcoming British and Irish Lions tour.”
- Phil Waugh, RA Boss
However, the governing body reported positive developments, including a 1.7% increase in participation growth across clubs and a 2.3% rise in schools, with a notable 13% boost in the Get into Rugby program. Female participation also saw a strong 16% increase as professional opportunities in the women’s game continue to expand.
In the third year of RA’s broadcast partnership with Stan Sport and Nine Entertainment Company, free-to-air viewership for Saturday night Super Rugby games rose by 15% compared to 2022’s average. The return Bledisloe Cup Test in Dunedin also saw a 15% increase in viewership from the previous year.
Waugh outlined RA’s strategic priorities, which include uniting the game from the grassroots to the elite level, maximizing efficiencies in high-performance, investing in growth areas, and positioning the sport to capitalize on commercial opportunities over the next six years to ensure a thriving future for Australian rugby.
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