Rugby Australia has announced it is debt free for the first time since the COVID ‘pandemic’, thanks to the financial success of the British & Irish Lions tour, which reportedly generated up to AU$120m (NZD $133m).
The governing body had drawn heavily on an AUd $80m credit facility in 2023 but repaid it ahead of schedule, saving NZD $10m in loan servicing this year alone.
Chief executive Phil Waugh called the repayment a milestone, crediting the Lions series, cost discipline, and organisational changes.
With major tournaments ahead, including the 2027 men’s and 2029 women’s Rugby World Cups, RA plans to create an investment fund to secure the sport’s long-term sustainability.
