San Francisco Frontiers - Rugby Australia eyes brighter future as Lions tour brings cash windfall

RA chief executive Phil Waugh said the "record operating surplus" of Aus$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 Aus$70-Aus$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.

The run of lean years had coincided with an underperforming Wallabies struggling to compete as an attraction against the hugely popular Australian Rules and rugby league.

Getting back on a sound financial footing would enable Australian rugby to "achieve great things", said RA chair Daniel Herbert.

"There is still much work ahead as we build a successful and sustainable model for Australian Rugby.

"But, given the great strides we have made in recent years, I am more confident than ever in the strategic direction and delivery of our great game at all levels."

More than 370,000 fans attended the Wallabies' seven home Test matches in 2025, said RA's annual report, a record for a non-World Cup year.

S.Jackson--SFF