Rugby Australia eyes brighter future as British & Irish Lions tour brings cash windfall
The underperforming Wallabies had been struggling to compete as an attraction against the hugely popular Australian Rules and rugby league
Rugby Australia (RA) announced a record surplus Wednesday on the back of the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour, saying it would enable a sustainable future for the sport after years of losses.
RA Chief Executive Phil Waugh said the “record operating surplus” of A$70 million (US$50 million) had injected fresh confidence into the 15-man game ahead of hosting next year’s men’s Rugby World Cup.
“We are delivering on our promise to reset the game’s finances, restore pride and set a new strategic course for Australian Rugby,” the former Wallaby said following RA’s annual general meeting on Wednesday.
“A period of resilience has transitioned to an era of opportunity and Australian rugby – with its dedicated team and well-defined strategy – is well-positioned to capitalise on it.”
A dedicated investment fund will manage the surplus and an expected further windfall of between A$70-A$100 million from hosting next year’s World Cup.
The once-in-every-12-years British and Irish Lions tour drew huge crowds to nine matches, three of them Tests, and brought in tens of thousands of fans from overseas.