NRL trumpets itself as No.1 show after record year

That number is significantly up on the $95.9 million that remained at the end of COVID-affected 2020 season, with the NRL having recorded surpluses every year since.

It came as the league also claimed record-breaking attendances of 4.98 million for last season, and the declaration it remained the No.1-watched sport in the country.

"The season delivered extraordinary performance outcomes for rugby league, cementing our now established position as Australia's - and the Pacific's - number one sport," Commission chair V'landys said in a statement.

"The strategies of the ARL Commission and strong financial management has enabled funding for players, clubs, states and grassroots to continually grow, while also increasing our capacity to invest further into new revenue generating assets.

"Financially, the game has never been stronger.

"And the future is even brighter, with the Perth Bears to join the NRL Premiership in 2027 and the Papua New Guinea Chiefs to enter from 2028.

"These new market expansions will build lasting connections with communities, growing the grassroots and giving kids the best start in life through the transformative power of rugby league."

The NRL's balance sheet shows the game made an extra $83.8 million out of events last season, largely though sponsorship, ticket sales and government income.

That helped account for an overall $100.7 million revenue increase.

In turn, the NRL's financial report shows an extra $85.2 million in extra grants to states, clubs and players.

The sport also recorded a 7.5 per cent rise in participation to 1.12 million across the nation, with female numbers up 10 per cent alone to more than 50,000.

"After another record-breaking year, rugby league is strong, healthy and vibrant," NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.

"More people are watching rugby league than ever before. More people are playing rugby league than ever before.

"Whichever metric you choose, our overall results reflect those core strengths."