Two years ago Netball Australia was in trouble. Now they want to expand Super Netball
“Featuring the world’s best netball players in action every week, a thriving fan base driving strong audiences and record-breaking attendances for women’s sports leagues in Australia, it is clear that the league has grown significantly over the last decade.
“The 2025 season reached new heights with a record 388,455 attendees across the season, including a sold-out Rod Laver Arena and a record grand final crowd of 15,013.
“The season was also the second most watched season of all time across the Foxtel Group, with a 23 per cent increase in viewing for the drama-packed final series.”
West added that despite Collingwood withdrawing its team at the end of the 2023 season after seven years in the competition, the NA was still happy to have clubs from other codes part of its franchise ownership.
This license was later purchased by Craig Hutchison’s Sports Entertainment Network and the team currently plays as the Melbourne Mavericks.
Netball Australia CEO Stacey West.Credit: Getty Images
Melbourne Storm and the University of Sunshine Coast partnered to form the Sunshine Coast Lightning in 2016 and the team found immediate success, reaching the finals in six of their nine seasons and winning the premierships in 2017 and 2018.
In September the Storm and the university announced they would exit netball, with ownership of the Lightning shifting to a group led by former West Tigers managers Justin Pascoe and Lee Hagipantelis.
The Storm are focusing on gaining an NRLW license and growing women’s rugby league in Victoria. Netball NSW admits interest in field The Giants’ AFL club are also planning for the 2026 season while acquiring the netball license they share with GWS.
NSW Swifts’ Helen Housby receives the ball against Giants Netball earlier this season.Credit: Getty Images
The NA said it was pleased to hear from existing licensees, other sports code-related organisations, consortia or hybrid ownership models.
“As we look ahead, it is vital that any expansion is strategic, sustainable and aligned with the long-term vision of Australian netball,” West said.
“Investing in women’s sport provides a dynamic space for innovation, growth and purpose, and we look forward to engaging with interested parties as we evaluate the next phase of Super Netball’s evolution.”
Anyone interested in getting involved can email extension@netball.com.au to express their interest.
News, results and expert analysis from the sports weekend delivered every Monday. Sign up for our sports newsletter.
