Bears Revival Dreams Ignite as ARLC Secures New Deal with WA Government

The expansion of the NRL into the west, which has seen its fair share of ups and downs, is making a comeback following the ARL Commission’s in-principle agreement for a new team in Perth.

As reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, the ARLC approved the agreement on Wednesday morning after WA Premier Roger Cook increased his offer.

The prospective team, which will formally partner with the North Sydney Bears, could potentially join the competition as soon as 2027.

This development follows only weeks after Premier Cook accused the NRL of seeing the state as a “cash cow,” which had left negotiations in a precarious state.

Initially, the NRL sought $120 million in taxpayer funding over a ten-year period. The WA government proposed a commitment of $20 million for a new centre of excellence and an additional $35 million over five years aimed at grassroots development.

Fortunately, both parties have reached a compromise.

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A private consortium led by Cash Converters CEO Peter Cumins had their bid declined in October due to disagreements over licensing fees.

Following this, the NRL engaged in talks with the WA government, but negotiations faltered once again due to disagreements regarding the level of investment from the Cook government.

Next steps involve securing the approval of all existing clubs and the RLPA. A meeting between the NRL and a subcommittee of clubs is reportedly set for Thursday.