RugbyWA provided a positive progress update on its Strategic Plan for rugby in Western Australia at its Annual General Meeting held on Wednesday 29 April 2026. The Strategic Plan seeks to inspire community connection, drive passionate involvement, and unite Western Australians on and off the field.
The AGM formally adopted RugbyWA’s 2025 Annual Report which continued a track record of growing revenues to drive a greater investment in community rugby to grow the sport in WA. Income was up 26% to $5.3 million which allowed RugbyWA to increase investments in rugby development, community, education and pathway programs by 43% on 2025. The targeted increase in expenditure resulted in continued improvement in rugby programs, support and governance across Western Australia.
Chair of RugbyWA, John Welborn, highlighted how the strong financial and operational results have delivered a 9% growth in members to a total of 14,413. This growth, and the parallel success of the Force 5 School Program, Try Tag and 7’s rugby, has made WA the fastest growing rugby region in Australia for both the men’s and woman’s game.
John Welborn also outlined the significant opportunities facing rugby with the Men’s Rugby World Cup scheduled to be hosted in Australia in 2027, the Perth Bears NRL side set to commence in 2027, and the MOU signed with Tattarang earlier in 2026 seeking to build closer collaboration between RugbyWA and the Western Force.
The meeting noted the continuing support of Andrew and Nicola Forrest as Life Patrons of RugbyWA and also noted the increase in legacy funding from the WA State Government which has enabled a significant increase in RugbyWA’s investment in growing rugby.
A key organizational focus for RugbyWA is the development of a new Home of Rugby in WA. This important infrastructure plan will provide a long term home for the community and professional game in WA and provide a base for the 25,000 West Australians who play rugby across 30 clubs, 200 schools and more than 250 teams.
RugbyWA Chair, John Welborn, said: “We are experiencing a significant period of change and growth in our sport. If we can collectively face the challenges, and unite to take advantage of upcoming opportunities, the next decade will be transformational for community rugby in Western Australia.”
AGM Board Appointments
RugbyWA Chair, John Welborn, was re-elected to the RugbyWA Board for a further two-year term. A former WA junior and senior representative rugby player, and the first Western Australian-born and bred player to represent Australia at Test level, Welborn has enormous passion for rugby and is driving an ambitious agenda for the sport in WA.
Josh Aislabie was re-elected as President of RugbyWA for a further two-year term. Aislabie is a strong advocate for community rugby in Western Australia and plays a key role in connecting RugbyWA with its member clubs and grassroots network.
Francis Williams was elected to the RugbyWA Board as a Director for a two-year term. A former RugbyWA President and former Chair of Wanneroo Rugby Union Club, Williams brings a strong understanding of community rugby and his appointment strengthens RugbyWA’s focus on participation, club sustainability, and volunteer engagement.
Following the AGM, Shaun Hardcastle, whose two-year elected term as a RugbyWA Board Member concluded at the AGM, has been nominated to continue as a Board Member and is expected be appointed to fill a casual vacancy on the Board. Hardcastle’s appointment will be considered by the RugbyWA Board at its meeting on 14 May 2026.
Strong Financial and Governance Outcomes at AGM
RugbyWA reported a positive financial result for 2025, recording a surplus of $92,000, reflecting a continued focus on financial sustainability and operational discipline.
The AGM approved RugbyWA’s transition to a Company Limited by Guarantee, an important structural step in strengthening governance and positioning the organisation for future growth. This transition included the AGM’s approval of a new constitution and the adoption of the new name of Western Australian Rugby Union Ltd. (trading as RugbyWA). The AGM noted that a Constitutional Review Working Group will be formed with the expectation that further constitutional reform will be considered at the 2027 AGM.
Moore Australia was re-appointed as RugbyWA’s auditor for 2026.
His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM was re-appointed Patron in Chief of RugbyWA and Malcom McCusker AC CVO KC was re-appointed Patron.
Acknowledging Service
John Welborn was elected a Life Member of RugbyWA for his significant contribution to the sport over more than 40 years as a player and administrator.
RugbyWA acknowledged the significant contribution of Justin Shakeshaft, who stepped down as a Board Member prior to the AGM. Shakeshaft has made significant contributions across key committees, including FRAC, CRAC, and community rugby, as well as strong support of referees.
2025 Annual Report Now Available
The RugbyWA 2025 Annual Report was formally released at the AGM and is now available for review on the RugbyWA website. The report highlights key achievements, participation growth, and progress against strategic priorities over the past 12 months.
View the 2025 Annual Report here.
