Netball Australia and players settle Collective Player Agreement and revenue-sharing partnership
Netball’s internal discord has come to a close with the announcement of a new three-year Collective Player Agreement (CPA).
The deal, unveiled on Wednesday, arrived on the heels of the departure of Netball Australia’s Chief Executive, Kelly Ryan, and signifies the end of a protracted and contentious conflict between Netball Australia and the players’ union.
Players who have not received pay since September are now free to ink contracts for the upcoming 2024 Super Netball season. The agreement includes an immediate 11 percent wage increase, retroactively applicable from October 1. Over the course of the three-year CPA, the average potential salary will see an uptick to $89,221, with minimum salaries escalating to $46,600.
Netball Australia and players will embark on a pioneering sponsorship revenue-sharing partnership. Players stand to gain 20 percent of revenue surpassing an agreed sponsorship forecast, marking a historic moment for the sport.
Interim NA boss Stacey West, who assumed the role following Ryan’s resignation, expressed optimism about the future.
“The new revenue share partnership with the players is a historic moment for the game that will set up netball for future success and ensure financial stability for the sport,” West said.
“Netball Australia and Suncorp Super Netball players love our sport and we are all committed to the growth and success of not only top-level competition but also future generations of grassroots players.”
Australian Netball Players’ Association head Kathryn Harby-Williams hailed the agreement as a significant milestone.
“It’s a day when revenue sharing enters netball for the first time with all of the benefits this brings,” Harby-Williams offered.
“The operating model for netball has changed for the better, particularly at a time when there is competition for talented female athletes, many of whom come through the netball ranks.
“Netball is now a sport which incentivises players and administrators alike to grow the game for the benefit of all who love and invest in it.”
“This is a stepping stone to even greater things for the sport.”
The contract signing window for Super Netball teams and players commenced at 4pm AEDT on Wednesday, signalling a new chapter of stability and collaboration within the netball community.
