The National Rugby League has today formally advised all clubs of a funding package totaling $7m per club in 2013. The Australian Rugby League Commission approved the funding model after extensive consultation with the Club Council and confirmed the amounts in accordance with the agreed time-line. The package includes a direct grant increase of $2m, taking the base grant from $3.85m to $5.85m. The rest of the funding package will come from the clubs in turn providing commercial assets to the NRL including on-line assets and ground signage as well as commitments around financial systems and reporting, welfare and education and community relations. “It is something that will provide the clubs with the ability to invest in their businesses for growth and it provides security for players and fans,” NRL Interim Chief Executive, Mr Shane Mattiske, said today. “The first of the six pillars of the strategic plan announced this week states that clubs should be sustainable and resourced to perform and grow and this is a direct investment in that outcome that we are pleased to deliver. “The finalisation of club funding allows us to focus on player payments and the CBA and those ongoing discussions with the RLPA will continue tomorrow.” NRL clubs will each receive an immediate $2 million injection thanks to the $1 billion broadcast deal signed earlier this year. All 16 clubs will potentially have a funding package of $7 million to help balance the sheets in 2013, the league announced on Wednesday. The deal was signed off on Wednesday after consultation between the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) and the club council. "It is something that will provide the clubs with the ability to invest in their businesses for growth and it provides security for players and fans," interim chief executive Shane Mattiske said in a statement. "The first of the six pillars of the strategic plan announced this week states that clubs should be sustainable and resourced to perform and grow and this is a direct investment in that outcome that we are pleased to deliver. "The finalisation of club funding allows us to focus on player payments and the CBA and those ongoing discussions with the RLPA (Rugby League Players' Association) will continue (on Thursday)." In addition to the base grant of $5.85 million, clubs can cash in on a further $1.15 million if they can deliver on off-field commitments - including online assets, ground signage and welfare, education and community relations. Club funding for 2014 will be finalised by June 30, 2013, in accordance with the principles within the strategic plan