The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio has revealed some of the key changes in the NRL’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) after the ARL and Rugby League Players association finally reached a deal.
After 21 months of stalled negotiations, media boycotts and the players covering the NRL logo on their jerseys, the ARL and RPLA settled on a new CBA on Thursday evening and an announcement is set to be made over the weekend.
Riccio said the biggest change in the CBA is the increased revenue the players are expected to receive.
“The average NRL player salary will rise by almost $63,000,” Riccio said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“From $339,000 to $401,000 this season which is now the average salary.
“The minimum salary will rise from $120,000 this season to $140,000 in 2027.
“The NRL have also pledged to provide $115 million in the player pool, superannuation and injury hardship fund.
"When you get to the crux of it, fans want to know the average salary for an NRL player.
“It sits at $401,000 a season.”
In addition to ARL chairman Peter V’landys and RLPA chair Deidre Anderson being in attendance for the negotitaiotns, South Sydney CEO Blake Solly was also present.
Riccio clarified Solly’s involvement at the negotiation table.
“Solly was also there and I wouldn’t call him a mediator but he had an interest in both camps,” Riccio added.
“He had respect from both camps which is why he was in the room.
“This is his first time being in an exclusive meeting in the final step of negotiations.
“He has been a club representative as far as the CBA is concerned and he has been filtering the information to the rest of the club CEO’s.
“Blake was the delegate.”
The players have confirmed their media boycott is over and will allow media interviews during the week and on gameday.
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