The Australian Rugby Union (ARU) have announced a career development package aimed at enticing more players to the code. In a four-year deal between the ARU, the state unions and the Rugby Union Players' Association (RUPA), Australian Super 12 players will receive a minimum salary of Aus$45,000 (£20,000). There will also be an increase in revenue share and a "career development programme" to prepare them for life after rugby.

"It's a landmark for a few reasons, but with a $45,000 salary increased from $29,000 (it puts it) above cricket, AFL and rugby league in Australia," said RUPA director Tony Dempsey.

"We think we can attract some of the elite players to rugby rather than to league, AFL or cricket."

Up to 120 players will have a share in the programme, which will benefit many of the fringe players who are named in Super 12 squads but who do not end up playing a match. This also provides scope to cover players from a potential fourth Super 12 side in Australia.

ARU managing director John O'Neill said the career development programme would benefit players across the board, giving them a chance to pursue an alternate livelihood after their playing days were over.

"Rugby is moving to improve the work environment of the players and striving hard to ensure their education, welfare and job security after they finish playing is secure," O'Neill said.

"It's also about players sharing in the success of the game. If the Wallabies are winning, the state teams are winning, crowds turn up and sponsors want to be involved.

"It increases the revenues of the game and the players will share in that."