I get the sense they dont have a choice. And again its so RL to be even in that situation.
I look at the Dolphins who didn't start from scratch. They were an existing QRL club in a heartland state. The alternative to the Bears is a Perth standalone team, where you are starting from scratch in a non heartland state.
With regards to Swans and Lions, both clubs are established today. However at one point,,weren't both clubs close to folding?
After hearing the John Sackson interview, it does seem like the bid will have attention to every detail on how the club will function.
Plus the broadcasters would be happy to have a familiar brand to sell and promote Perth matches on the east coast. At the end of the day, broadcasters have the gold, and would've provided expansion feedback to the NRL.