The NRL recorded an operating surplus in 2014 and the game has never been stronger. Here are answers to some questions that have been raised about the results.
2014 NRL Annual Report
2014 Business Review Presentation
How much money did the game make last year?
The NRL recorded an operating surplus of $49.9 million in 2014.
In 2012 the game lost nearly $10 million.
This is a huge turnaround in the last two years – the game has never been stronger.
There are suggestions that the real surplus is closer to $20 million - not $49.9 million. Which figure is correct?
When the NRL generates a surplus of funds, that money is invested back into the game.
The operating surplus last year was $49.9 million and last year just over $28m was re-invested back into the game. In fact, $18m of the funds reinvested last year (65 per cent) were for clubs and the NSW Rugby League and Queensland Rugby League. The money was distributed in the following ways:
• $13.9 million in additional funds to support the 16 NRL Clubs
• $4.1m went to State Leagues
• $5.4m went to priorities such as Welfare and Education programs, increased support to Men of League - and assistance in establishment of RiseForAlex Fund
• $4.7m went towards investment for the future including the alliance with Touch Football Australia, planning for new stadiums and investing in NRL Statistics.
This results in a net surplus of $21.8m which is available for re-investment.
How do we know that the figures are accurate?
The figures have been independently audited and approved by one of the country's leading accounting firms, Ernst and Young.
How much have administration costs risen since the Commission was established two years ago?
Administration costs were $15.3m in 2012 and were $19m last year. All up, administration costs are less than 6 per cent of all the funds distributed by the game last year.
It's important to note that in the same period revenue has risen by $162.7m from $182.2m to $344.9m.
The NRL is determined to grow the game across the board. That includes sponsorship, participation, stronger clubs, grassroots support and player welfare.
Why aren't clubs receiving more of the money being generated by television rights?
In 2012 each club received a grant from the NRL of $3.85 million – in 2014 they received $7.55m. That's an increase of 96 per cent.
The clubs, and the State Leagues, have never received more money from the NRL.
Our players also are paid better than they have ever been before.
Growing the game, and improving the business means more money for clubs, players, and the game as a whole – right down to the grassroots.
