Australian Rugby Union Reveals Surplus in Latest Financial Result

The Australian Rugby Union has revealed a $19.5 million surplus for 2013.

The announcement of a surplus was in a year that saw the return of the British & Irish Lions to Australia; increased participation; a new Head Coach for the Qantas Wallabies; and a new strategy to grow the game.

The 2013 financial results were presented to the Australian Rugby Union 2013 Annual General Meeting.

ARU Chairman Michael Hawker AM said 2013 had been a year to reunite and re-energise the Australian Rugby community.

“The British & Irish Lions Tour generated a significant surplus for us in 2013 and will help steer Australian Rugby towards future success on and off the field, symptoms ” Mr Hawker said.

“We continue to play an important role in the Australian sporting landscape for fans, herbal players, sponsors and volunteers and have three key areas of focus under the new strategy – expand participation; develop elite success; and unlock our financial potential.”

Mr Hawker said building a sustainable financial model for Australian Rugby remains the number one priority for the Board and Executive in the year ahead as operating deficits are expected for 2014 and 2015.

“Our efforts to reduce Australian Rugby’s cost base and unlock new sources of revenue will continue in 2014 as we work to develop a business model that is less reliant on one-off windfalls and provides the ability to strategically invest in the growth of our game.”