As WA Cricket prepares for a bumper 2025-26 season on-field, it is aided by a positive financial performance during 2024-25.
WA Cricket, trading as the Western Australian Cricket Association, posted a net surplus from its normal operations of $1.1 million in 2024-25, up from a $1.6 million loss during the prior corresponding period.
This turnaround was driven by an increased revenue in both membership subscriptions ($1.15 million) and $560,214 rise in cricket-based income.
Function revenue dipped by $192,759 to $905,143.
WA Cricket’s overall net surplus, including capital grants relating to the $184.1 million WACA ground improvement project, was $68.3 million, up from $43.3 million 12 months prior.
Chief executive John Stephenson, who officially began the role late last year, told Business News he was heartened that a 19 per cent increase in combined membership revenue played a key role in the normal business-based surplus.
At the 2024-25 season launch, Mr Stephenson said he would take a 'forensic' look at WA Cricket's books upon settling into the role - and fast forward to September 2025, said it is keen to continue its positive momentum.
"My first priority was to undertake a detailed review of the organisation’s financial position," Mr Stephenson said.
"It is clear WA Cricket is in a stable position, and we are now focused on strengthening and diversifying our revenue base.
"Beyond our traditional income streams, we are exploring new partnerships, digital innovation, and expanded membership and event offerings to underpin our long-term sustainability."
The state sporting association also provided an update regarding its final contribution to the project.
Following June 30, WA Cricket said it had secured a $10 million unsecured, interest-bearing facility with Westpac. It also signed a deed of variation to the state government’s financial assistance agreement for an extra $15 million towards the project.
“WA Cricket’s funding contribution for the WGIP of $17,400,473 includes $4,289,900 paid to date with the remaining $13,110,573 not required until the second quarter of the 2025-26 financial year,” the company said.
“Plans are in place to fund this contribution via the combination of the company’s cash reserves, the financing arrangement in place as mentioned and potential funding from existing and other parties.”
As of June 30, WA Cricket’s total accumulated funds hit $128.8 million, up from $60.4 million in 2023-24 – while its cash and cash equivalents reached $18.1 million, factoring in a WGIP grant overpayment of $8.8 million.
Ahead of the upcoming summer of cricket, Mr Stephenson said WA Cricket was primarily focused on two key variables.
"Our focus is twofold: continuing to prepare our teams for another highly competitive season, and ensuring the organisation is strategically placed for growth," he said.
"That means delivering on major projects such as the WACA Ground improvement project, deepening our member and partner engagement, and expanding participation across all levels of the game.
"At the same time, we are looking closely at commercial innovation to ensure WA Cricket remains strong and sustainable into the future."
Later this month, WA Cricket will also hold its annual general meeting, which will include the finalisation of its new board.
Four spots on the board are up for grabs, with 17 nominations received. Voting will take place online between September 8 and 22, although members also have an option to vote on the night at the AGM.
WACA board nominees
David Talalla, Himal Doolabh, Oliver Peterson, Paul Collins*, Brad Hogg*, Christian Hunter, Peter Hayward, Paul Collins, Michael Veletta, Dr Michael Gannon*, Felicity Boyd, Chris Carman, Geoff Rosich, Michael Pailthorpe, Belinda Woods, John Inverarity*, Tony Sewell, Jarnail Singh.
*= seeking re-election.
