Football Australia Urges Government Backing for Sport’s Future
With 1.91 million participants and 3,300 active clubs nationwide, football is played in every postcode and every community. However, a growing infrastructure gap – estimated at $2.8 billion – now threatens the game’s ability to meet demand and fulfil its role to support grassroots participation, communities and elevate football from local pitches to the world stage.
Our policy platform outlines a unified agenda to government across our Member Federations, the Australian Professional Leagues, local football clubs, and various stakeholders, the 23 policy proposals set out clear investments across infrastructure, social and development programs, regulatory reform to ensure football remains a leading force in community participation, social cohesion, and on the global stage.
Key funding and regulatory priorities in the policy proposals include:
In addition to grassroots infrastructure, Football Australia is seeking support to advance Australia’s global leadership in football through:
Football Australia welcomes engagement with all levels of government to progress these proposals and co-create a sustainable future for the game.
Securing Our Football Future 2025 Policy Proposals to Government can be found here.
Quotes attributable to Football Australia Chair Anter Isaac:
“Securing Our Football Future embodies the voices of millions who pour their heart and soul into football every day – from grassroots volunteers lining pitches at dawn, to our Member Federations, professional leagues, and the nearly 4,000 community clubs thriving in every corner of Australia. Our mission as leaders is clear – to amplify their vision, honour their commitment, and ensure these voices inspire decisive action in every parliament across the nation. Whilst we still have so much work to do on so many fronts, the past 12 months have demonstrated vividly what we can achieve when we work together, for one another. This initiative is yet another reflection of that collective commitment.”
“Our ambitions for Australian football match the boundless potential of our nation on the global stage. Through decisive collaboration at every level of government, we can harness football’s extraordinary growth to strengthen communities, forge international excellence, and create a legacy. Today, we stand united and determined – calling on governments to act now, joining us in delivering the infrastructure and opportunities our communities richly deserve.”
“Football uniquely fulfils two vital national missions – nation-building here at home by uniting communities across every postcode, and nation-bridging abroad by deepening Australia’s ties with Asia, Oceania, and beyond. Our vision remains resolute – every child, regardless of postcode or background, deserves not only a place to belong but an opportunity to dream, grow, and meaningfully contribute. These proposals represent more than practical investments – they embody the dreams and dedication of our nearly two million participants, turning grassroots passion into a powerful symbol of national pride and global respect.”
Quotes attributable to Football Australia CEO James Johnson:
“Football is Australia’s most played team sport and uniquely positioned to deliver social, cultural and economic impact at scale.
“Our surge in participation has put football at a tipping point where our growth is outpacing our infrastructure. All levels of government need to act to address the facilities gap to give grassroots players an opportunity to participate and support our current and emerging talent to compete on the world stage.
“These proposals represent a united approach across our football community, and present a clear opportunity for local, state, and federal governments to partner with Football Australia to deliver long-term, high value returns for communities and the nation.”
Quotes attributable to executives from the Australian Professional Leagues and Member Federations:
APL, Executive Chair, the Hon. Stephen Conroy:
“Football infrastructure, facilities and stadia are not keeping pace with the huge grassroots participation, and the growing pathways and professional game in Australia. It’s hoped this initiative will help unlock the investment the participation base and potential of the game deserves.”
Football Victoria Interim CEO, Daniel Birrell:
“Football in Victoria is booming, particularly in growth corridors with young families but our local facilities are struggling to keep pace. Children are being turned away due to a lack of suitable playing fields and facilities.
“Government investment in modern, accessible pitches and club community infrastructure is essential to creating more opportunities for children, fostering community connections and ensuring football remains inclusive and accessible for all.”
Football NSW CEO John Tsatsimas:
“Investment in modern fields, lighting, and female-friendly amenities is essential to support our growing football community. Government funding will ensure safe, inclusive spaces for all players, driving participation and talent development.”
Northern NSW Football CEO Peter Haynes:
“Football is Australia’s largest team sport with strong roots in Northern NSW communities. However, inadequate regional facilities hinder participation. Modern infrastructure like quality fields, lighting, and inclusive changerooms is urgently needed. Investing in football facilities supports physical health, social inclusion, and community ties. It’s time to ensure Northern NSW’s football facilities reflect the sport’s importance in building healthier, more connected communities”
Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell:
“Government investment is crucial for the continued growth of football in WA and the retention of players, coaches and match officials.”
Football Queensland CEO Rob Cavallucci:
“Government support is vital to upgrade fields and amenities, ensuring safe, all-weather spaces for our growing community.
“Investing in grassroots football strengthens health, inclusion, and talent pathways. Our proposal for a new stadium at Perry Park will be a cornerstone of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games legacy, helping increase the professionalism of the game in Queensland with a purpose-built venue for rectangular sports.”
Football South Australia CEO Michael Carter:
“Growth in participation is placing a demand on available green space and amenities like never seen before. Football in the state of South Australia has received funding to upgrade club and state-based facilities and this has improved the environment for players and officials, however demand has resulted in an increase in new space being used and this requires an investment to bring these facilities up to a standard.”
Football Tasmania CEO Tony Pignata:
“Tasmania’s rising football participation demands better infrastructure. Many clubs struggle with poor pitches and facilities. Government funding will create a modern, inclusive spaces, helping more Tasmanians enjoy the game while promoting healthier, connected communities.”
Capital Football CEO Samantha Farrow:
“Football in the ACT is booming, but our facilities are overburdened. Investment in all-weather pitches and inclusive amenities is crucial to meet demand. Government support will ensure every Canberran can access quality football opportunities.”
Football Northern Territory CEO Jamie Montheith:
“Football is vital in the NT, especially for remote and Indigenous communities. But outdated facilities limit access and development. Government funding for better pitches, lighting, and club amenities will create lasting social and sporting benefits.”
https://www.ffa.com.au/news/football-australia-calls-government-support-secure-future-australias-most-popular-sport