Melbourne Rebels enter voluntary administration, will play out 2024 season

The Melbourne Rebels have entered voluntary administration, but will get the opportunity to play in the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season thanks to Rugby Australia’s backing.

Rumours and reports around the club’s financial status had been evolving over the offseason and ultimately, the club made the decision on Monday night to enter voluntary administration.

With the Super Rugby Pacific and Super W seasons just around the corner, Rugby Australia has stepped in to ensure the club will see out both campaigns.

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“RA is committed to ensuring the Melbourne Rebels play in the 2024 Super Rugby competitions, and we will support their preparation for the new season,” Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said.

“As custodians of the game, we are determined to ensure that RA is making responsible decisions for a sustainable and successful future – we will work with the Rebels and the relevant stakeholders to that end.”

RA confirmed that the men’s competition’s Super Round, slated for 1-3 March at AAMI Park, will go ahead as planned.

Waugh also insisted RA would work alongside the Victorian Government to ensure the 2024 campaigns go ahead.

“The Victorian Government has been a long-standing and significant supporter of professional and community rugby,” he said.

“Through our strong partnership – forged through decades of staging major events in Melbourne – our focus is to work with the Victorian Government and its key agencies, including Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust, to ensure the Rebels’ participation in the 2024 Super Rugby season and the continuation of professional Rugby in the state.”

Melbourne Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson said the club are determined to make the most of the 2024 seasons.

“Our focus as an organisation is to ensure we can deliver the 2024 season, perform well in the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific and Super Rugby Women’s competitions, and to position our club in the best possible way for the future,” he said.

“Thank you to the Rebels’ players and staff, our partners, and especially the members and fans for their support and patience during this time.”