The NSW Rugby Union, originally called The Southern Rugby Union, was established in 1874.
As the Governing Body for rugby union in NSW, it manages all elements of the community game, including the operation of NSW Country Rugby, NSW Juniors, NSW Suburban Rugby and the Sydney premiership, the Shute Shield, competitions. It is also responsible for the development and training of coaches and match officials and, through the NSW Community Development team, provides coaching, development and participation opportunities for schools, clubs and new rugby players across NSW.
Its primary funding comes from Waratahs Rugby Ltd, a separate company set up to administer the professional game in NSW, including the operation of the NSW Waratahs. As part of the licence agreement, Waratahs Rugby contributes an annual total of over $1,100,000 to NSW Rugby to grow and develop the grassroots game across NSW.