Perth Bears join NRL as 18th team in landmark deal

7 May 2025

 

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The Perth Bears are officially joining the National Rugby League as its 18th team, restoring the legacy North Sydney Bears brand for the first time this century.

The Premier of Western Australia, Roger Coo  announced the finalised deal with the NRL on social media.

The $85 million agreement with the WA government will see the club compete in the NRL as early as 2027 or 2028. The club will operate as a membership-based, non-profit organization, chaired by a Western Australian. The NRL will not charge the club a license fee.

HBF Stadium in Perth is due for a $200 million redevelopment  as part of the deal. Of the $85 million promised, $65 million will be allocated to local grassroots league development, and $20 million will fund a Perth-based Centre of Excellence.

The Bears will end their 26-year absence from the NRL. However, it remains unclear if any games will be played at North Sydney Oval or the extent of the Sydney side’s involvement.

Further details are expected to be released on Thursday, May 8th.