The ARL Commission said today it remains on track to deliver a $40 million profit for 2018.
Chairman Peter Beattie confirmed the guidance given earlier this year which showed that the game is in strong financial position.
Mr Beattie said the game historically delivers higher profits in the early years of the broadcast cycle and these even out over the latter years as club grants and the salary cap rise.
"At the end of the day we are a not for profit business but we are delivering more funds to the game than ever before," Mr Beattie said.
At its meeting today the Commission also received updates on;
• The NRL Women's Premiership which will be held during the Finals series this year
• The NRL digital network which is reaching more fans than at any time in the past
• Integrity issues including the Manly salary cap issue. The independent Appeals Tribunal is still determining whether to grant Manly leave to appeal against the sanctions handed down by the NRL last month
• Football trends following a successful week of games in the Telstra Premiership which saw an increase in tries and the competition becoming even closer. After eight rounds every team remains in contention for the Finals.
Mr Beattie said the Commission also endorsed the call from CEO Todd Greenberg for players, fans, clubs and officials to talk up the game without restricting constructive debate.
He said the game was in great shape and figures from the weekend showed strong television audiences and crowds supporting the game.
The total television audience for round eight was 4.6 million – 10 per cent more than for the same round last year.
Average crowds for Telstra Premiership matches in 2018 are 16,815 compared with 15,969 at the same time last year.
