A contract with the Diamonds is a girl's best friend Netball Australia chief executive Kate Palmer (right) with Diamonds captain Natalie von Bertouch. FIVE years ago, there would not have been a single elite netballer earning a living from the game. In 2013, eight of our current Diamonds earn at least $100,000 a year from netball-related activities. What a great story for women's sport. The ANZ Championship is broadcast live, our athletes have never had higher profiles, the sport is flourishing at every level and continues to connect with, women around this country. The Diamonds train, play and are paid as professional athletes. Comparisons are difficult with male sports because they attract such significant broadcast income. However, Netball Australia is pleased to be in a position to offer a 50 per cent increase in daily payments for national commitments in year one and across three years a 100 per cent increase on current rates. The additional benefits received by the Diamonds exceed those received by most Australian athletes outside the big six sports. Income protection insurance for both netball and non-netball related income, all medical costs covered and athletes do not pay for anything related to their career. Netball is close to getting it right, but it requires a fine balancing act between the needs of over one million participants with those of 12 elite athletes. Key for the future of netball is broadcasters increasing the financial commitment to a level that acknowledges the netball product as an exciting, commercial opportunity that delivers great entertainment and deserves respect. Kate Palmer is Netball Australia chief executive