ARLC chairman Peter Beattie has called on the NSWRL and CRL bodies to merge as the governing body decides where to invest an extra $10 million in junior rugby league next year.

Beattie’s comments came during a 30-minute fan forum prior to Saturday’s NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and North Queensland where a range of topics were discussed.

From refereeing gripes, to women’s licenses, to new investment strategies, and interstate Origin games, Beattie and NRL boss Todd Greenberg took over a dozen questions from fans.

Punters also quizzed the pair on TV deals for upcoming Test matches, the timing of the Allianz Stadium rebuild, as well as providing mental health services for match officials.

It is the second time this year both Beattie and Greenberg fronted fans en masse, having also stood in front of Canterbury members during an AGM earlier this year.

But it was the issue of funding that Beattie on Saturday insisted was in urgent need of addressing, saying that “there’s going to be a few tough decisions on the way”.

“As you know in NSW, they’ve got two bodies. We really only need one. If we get one, then we’ll get better money into grassroots,” Beattie told one fan.

“That’s easily said, but not easy to do. You’ll see a bit more about that.”

Greenberg revealed an extra $10 million would be sent into grassroots funding next year, however Beattie was wary of how the money would be distributed.

It is understood a review is currently being undertaken over the state leagues.

“If you want money to get to grassroots as opposed to any other way money’s spent, (a merge has) got to happen. Country and NSW have got to get together, end of story,” Beattie said.

Greenberg also angrily hit out at suggestions referee Matt Cecchin is leaving the NRL at the end of the year due to being constantly overlooked for high-profile matches.

“When you say can’t get a fair crack, that’s not accurate. That’s not why he’s leaving,” Greenberg told another fans.

“He’s leaving because of the criticism that he’s received from media and fans, including death threats to him and his family and he’s no longer prepared to put up with that as a referee.

“That’s the cultural challenge we’re facing.”