Melbourne Rebels Sue Rugby Australia for $30M Over Super Rugby Exclusion
The defunct club's directors allege breaches of funding obligations and seek a return to competition.
- The Melbourne Rebels have filed a lawsuit in the Federal Court against Rugby Australia, seeking $30 million in damages.
- The club was excluded from the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific competition due to financial instability and debts totaling $23 million.
- Rebels' directors claim Rugby Australia breached funding obligations and unfairly favored other clubs, particularly the NSW Waratahs.
- The lawsuit includes requests for access to Rugby Australia's financial records to investigate alleged fiduciary failures.
- The Rebels also seek to resume control of the club, aiming to return to the Super Rugby competition with private equity backing.
The Guardian 
Australian Broadcasting Corporation 
The Sydney Morning Herald 