Better pay and conditions for SSN players

Super Netball Players to Receive Improved Pay and Conditions Ahead of 2027 Season

Australia’s elite Super Netball players will benefit from higher pay, improved working conditions and greater commercial opportunities under a new agreement reached ahead of the 2027 season.

The updated collective player agreement, negotiated between Netball Australia, the eight Super Netball clubs and the Australian Netball Players’ Association, will come into effect through a 12-month bridging arrangement designed to provide stability while the sport prepares for a new era of commercial growth.

The agreement means player contracting for the 2027 season can begin as scheduled, giving certainty to athletes, clubs and the league while discussions continue on a longer-term deal.

Among the key measures announced are increases to the overall player salary pool above inflation, additional financial support for athletes, more annual leave, and greater freedom to pursue personal sponsorship opportunities.

Key Changes for Players
The new agreement includes:

An increase to the minimum and maximum player payment pool above the Consumer Price Index (inflation).

A one-off payment to athletes following the signing of a new commercial partner for the Super Netball competition.

An additional two weeks of annual time off through revised scheduling of club commitments.

The option for players to sign multi-year contracts.

Greater flexibility for athletes to negotiate and secure their own sponsorship agreements.

Enhanced health insurance benefits.

Increased meal allowances.

The temporary agreement has been introduced to allow Netball Australia to maximise commercial opportunities arising from a new free-to-air television broadcast deal, which begins in 2027.

Netball Australia believes the increased exposure generated through the new broadcasting arrangement will create additional revenue opportunities across the sport. Officials say this could pave the way for an even stronger financial package for players in future negotiations.

Discussions will continue over several important issues, including the creation of a single, long-term collective player agreement, potential revenue-sharing arrangements and enhanced pregnancy and parental leave policies.

Netball Australia: ‘A Pivotal Moment’

Mark Falvo, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Netball Australia, said the agreement strikes a balance between delivering immediate improvements for players while safeguarding the long-term future of the competition.

“We are at a pivotal moment for our sport. This agreement gives our players, clubs and the league certainty while we enter a period of significant commercial opportunity for netball.

“We’re seeing strong interest from the market in our game, and our focus is on working together to unlock value, grow the sport and build a stronger future for everyone.

“There is more work to do in addressing some of the requests made by athletes and clubs, but this agreement delivers meaningful outcomes for players today while recognising the need to protect the long-term sustainability of the league.”

Liz Ellis, Chair of Netball Australia and one of Australia’s most celebrated former international players, said the agreement acknowledged the central role athletes play in the success of Super Netball.

“Our players are the heart and soul of our game and the reason Super Netball is recognised as the world’s leading netball competition. This agreement reflects that value and our commitment to growing the sport together. ”

“There are exciting opportunities ahead for netball and I look forward to continuing to work closely with our players to expand those opportunities and ensure they share in the success of the sport’s next chapter.”

Clubs Welcome Progress on New Deal

Kate Davies, Chief Executive Officer of Netball Queensland, speaking on behalf of the Super Netball clubs, described the agreement as an important step for both players and clubs.

“This agreement is an important step forward for our clubs and our athletes as we look ahead to an exciting new chapter for Super Netball.

“The improvements to player pay and conditions recognise the outstanding contribution our athletes make to the success of the competition, while providing clubs with the certainty they need to prepare for the 2027 season.

“The collaborative approach taken throughout these negotiations reflects the shared goal of our clubs and Netball Australia to ensure Super Netball remains the world’s leading netball competition and continues to thrive in the years ahead.

“With a new broadcast partner and significant commercial opportunities on the horizon, we are committed to working closely with Netball Australia and the Australian Netball Players’ Association to grow the value of the league.

“We know there is more work ahead, but the stronger we make the competition together, the more we can deliver for players, clubs and everyone who loves our game.”