ARU in the red for 2014

 

Releasing its annual report for last year on Monday the ARU said it had achieved an underlying business surplus of AU$700,000 but an overall deficit.

 

This, "in a year that focused on driving a sustainable future for the game, through direct grants to member unions and the delivery of national programs."

 

The ARU said it would now seek feedback from rugby fans and stakeholders to "drive its next five year strategy and future investment at all levels of the game".

 

ARU chairman Michael Hawker said the process to collate feedback is already underway, with CEOs of member unions and Super Rugby clubs taking part in a strategy workshop.

 

"With our new broadcast deal nearly finalised, we're confident we will have a secure financial future for our game," Hawker said.

 

"We see our strategy moving from providing financial security to judicious investment to grow rugby, and we're keen for our fans and the rugby community to contribute to our future strategy," he said.

 

The ARU said participation in the game had grown by 12 percent in 2014 while it had invested AU$3.7-million in direct grants to member unions and AU$4.3-million was provided in funding for the delivery of ARU programs nationally.

 

CEO Bill Pulver's salary was listed as AU$735,885.

 

The report said he did not take incentive payments he was also entitled to during 2013 and 2014.