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The Australian Rugby Union have announced a much-needed $19.5 million surplus for 2013 as the financially-strapped body faces some tough times ahead.
After recording combined losses upwards of $20 million over the previous two years, ARU chief executive Bill Pulver has done an impressive job in cutting costs across the board since taking over from John O’Neill.
However, a major contributor to finishing the year in the black was the lucrative British and Lions tour which generated an incremental surplus of $35 million.
This year’s three-Test visit from France won’t generate anywhere near that kind of return, and in 2015 the ARU is bracing itself for an even tougher 12 months, with the World Cup to eat into the domestic international season.
But the Lions tour wasn’t the sole reason for the financial turnaround, with the ARU also boasting increased participation, the influence of Ewen McKenzie as coach of the Wallabies and a new strategy to grow the game overall.
Chairman Michael Hawker described the last 12 months as energising for a troubled code.
“The British and 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,” Hawker said.
“(We) have three key areas of focus under the new strategy, expand participation; develop elite success; and unlock our financial potential.”
Hawker said building a sustainable financial model, regardless of which teams visit Australia to play the Wallabies, was the challenge that still remains for the ARU board.
“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,” Hawker said.
The incremental profit generated by the British and Irish Lions Tour was offset by operating deficits of around $8m from other ordinary business; $5.5m in financial assistance provided to the Melbourne Rebels during the year; and an additional $2m investment in the Sevens program.
The AGM also included the election of three new board of directors, including Paul McLean, a former Wallaby five-eighth who was ARU President last decade.
Nerolie Withnall and Cameron Clyne were also elected, while Dick McGruther was endorsed as an ARU life member.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.