Health Insurance Fund of Australia (HIF) announced the extension its longstanding partnership with the Perth Wildcats, marking a notable milestone in the National Basketball League (NBL).
The renewed agreement, which now spans 15 years, is recognised as the longest continuous partnership in NBL history and will see HIF’s branding remain on the Wildcats’ playing and training jerseys for at least three more seasons.
HIF chief executive officer Glenn Oellermann said the insurer will continue its involvement as the official game-day partner for the NBL Pride Round, supporting inclusion and diversity, and will again offer giveaways to both supporters and members.
“As a not-for-profit, Western Australian-based health fund, we believe in the power of sport to inspire our local community,” he said. “With our partnership extended to 15 years, we can’t wait to see the action the team delivers once again this year.”
Perth Wildcats captain Jesse Wagstaff also highlighted the significance of the partnership, saying HIF’s backing enables the club to operate both on the court and within the community.
“To be around for most of the 17 years I’ve been at the club is amazing. I might have to keep playing just to make sure HIF don’t overtake me,” he said.
The Wildcats, who have secured 10 league championships and appeared in 38 NBL finals, are preparing for the upcoming NBL26 season under the guidance of head coach John Rillie and new owner Mark Arena.
The club maintains a membership exceeding 10,000 and regularly attracts crowds of more than 11,000 per game. Its digital presence includes over 300,000 followers across social media platforms.
The 2025/26 season will commence on Sept. 20, with HIF launching a competition for its members to win tickets to the opening home game and a signed jersey featuring the club’s updated branding.
In a separate initiative, HIF has entered a three-year sponsorship with West Perth Football Club (WPFC), which includes naming rights for the team’s home ground in Joondalup – now officially titled HIF Health Insurance Oval.
The agreement covers stadium branding, community-focused match days, and wellness programs designed to engage both fans and local residents.
At the stadium’s official renaming, Oellermann said: “Our shared values on health, wellness, and the importance of community in WA are further highlighted by the importance of supporting grassroots football in our home state.”
WPFC chief executive officer Joe McCarthy described the partnership as a boost for the club’s stability and outreach.
“We are thrilled to now be based at HIF Health Insurance Oval – as proud advocates around the importance of sport in the community our values align perfectly with those that are displayed at HIF. This three-year partnership not only gives our club financial sustainability it also allows us to grow additional areas within health and well-being,” he said.
