Super Netball Report Suggests Promising Growth

With a solid foundation established for its long-term vision, Netball Australia has officially commenced its significant development initiatives.

The organisation is progressing methodically, backed by a remarkable third consecutive operating surplus, which surged almost threefold to AUD$650,833 in 2024, the highest figure recorded since 2012.

This positive financial outcome was achieved concurrently with a reduction in debt, decreasing from AUD$4.2 million to AUD$3 million, thanks to a structured repayment plan aiming for full reconciliation by mid-2027.

Netball Australia’s CEO, Stacey West, attributes this success to a record-breaking Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) season, the enduring appeal of the world No.1 Australian Diamonds, and a robust participation rate exceeding one million nationwide, as these elements have combined to create a secure platform for future growth.

“It was a vital year to establish our standing, and the strong financial results reflect our dedication,” West stated, highlighting the essential nature of netball’s continued popularity and participation,” West said.

The year 2024 was a pivotal turning point for netball, West, added: “We needed to reset and deliver, which we did successfully. We focused on instilling confidence within the system and reassuring our investors and partners, allowing us to steer forward with strategic decision-making,” she said.

As the 10-year strategic plan approaches its conclusion, the framework for Suncorp Super Netball 2.0 is taking shape in anticipation of the next broadcasting deal post-2026.

Despite the well-documented financial challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, the healthier balance sheet disclosed in the 2024 Annual Report empowers Netball Australia to make bolder investments during this crucial phase.

The financial success is mirrored by record metrics for attendances, viewership and membership across six of the eight teams involved in SSN.

Key figures from the 2024 financial year include:

• SSN Attendance Record: A total of 366,222 spectators attended matches over 14 rounds, representing a 25% year-on-year increase, culminating in an impressive average of 6,000 fans per game, the highest attendance recorded for a female sports league in Australia.
• Broadcast Success: The partnership with Foxtel and Kayo has yielded an 18% increase in average viewership, equating to 57,000 viewers per round—the best result in three years.
• Increased Ticket Sales: Ticket sales for Diamonds events have surged by 50%, facilitating greater revenue as the national team shifts towards larger venues.
• Sponsorship Renewals: Significant sponsorship support continues with five companies—Origin Energy, Asics, Virgin Australia, Westfield, and Suncorp—renewing long-term agreements. Woolworths has also resumed its support for a revamped Woolworths NetSetGo program following a successful six-month pilot across 25 centres.

The data from the Annual Report will serve as a critical foundation for media rights negotiations ahead of the new deal commencing in 2027, with Netball Australia continuing its collaboration with the Foxtel Group.

The strengthening of governmental relationships and partnership initiatives has proven impactful, exemplified by the introduction of the First Nations carnival in Melbourne in September 2024.

Internally, significant appointments were made, with Megan Simpson taking on the role of executive general manager of Netball and Ben Slack appointed as EGM of Commercial and Brand.

Balancing debt repayment accrued during the 2020-2021 period with the current flourishing state and future ambitions represents a delicate task for West.

The upcoming home World Cup is anticipated to be transformative, promising to create growth and a lasting legacy.

Coupled with a new media rights deal and the evolution of Suncorp Super Netball into its next phase, the sport is poised for a dynamic future.

Highlighting the commitment each team is making towards reaching larger audiences and boosting viewership, West said that their focus will remain in promoting the fantastic game to existing enthusiasts and to new followers who will come to love the sport.

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