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The Australian Football League (AFL) reported an operating profit of AUS$20.7 million (US$14.33 million) for 2022, marking an AUS$66.8 million (US$46.25 million) year-over-year (YoY) increase.
Confirmed:
- Operating revenue is up AUS$131.8 million (US$91.16 million) YoY
- AUS$337.5 million (US$233.7 million) was awarded to AFL’s 18 clubs, up $36.5 million (US$25.25 million) on 2021
- League invested AUS$45.3 million (US$31.37 million) into the AFL Women’s (AFLW) competition
- AFL commits AUS$60.8 million (US$42.1 million) to game development
- AUS$17.4 million (US$12.05 million) allocated to infrastructure projects, including stadium redevelopment plans
- Club membership up 6.9 per cent YoY to hit a record 1.19 million for 2022
- AFLPA received AUS$27.1 million (US$18.76 million)
- League’s cash balance at the end of the year was AUS$178.2 million (US$123.25 million)
Context:
After making an operating loss of AUS$46.1 million (US$31.88 million) in 2021, the AFL returned to profit in 2022, attributing the hike in operating revenue to commercial returns on Marvel stadium, as well as sponsorship and media rights revenue increases. The significant investment into the AFLW will see the league expand to an 18-team competition for the 2023 season.
Comment:
Travis Auld, AFL chief financial officer, said: “We have survived the most challenging three years in the game’s history and our priority remains to keep our game as affordable and accessible as possible for all.”
Coming next:
In September, the AFL sealed a record AUS$4.5 billion (US$3.11 billion) domestic broadcast rights deal with Foxtel, Seven and Telstra, which kicks in from the 2025 season and runs until 2031. The AFL is also set to appoint a new commissioner in the coming months, after confirming that the incumbent Gillon McLachlan will leave his post no later than April.
