NSW Backs 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup with Major Funds
Football Australia and the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ Local Organising Committee (LOC) welcomed a significant investment from the NSW Government, confirmed in the 2025-26 State Budget released yesterday, to support the delivery of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ – Asia’s premier women’s football tournament.
This investment is a component of the New South Wales’ Government’s commitment to women’s sport and major event leadership, ensuring Sydney will play a central and vibrant role in hosting the tournament and welcoming the best teams from across Asia.
The funding will support:
This funding is additional to the NSW Football Legacy Program initiative from the NSW Government.
Quote attributable to Football Australia Interim CEO, Heather Garriock:
“We thank the Minister Steve Kamper and the NSW Government for this significant investment in the future of women’s football. It’s a bold commitment that recognises the power of sport to inspire and unite. This funding ensures Sydney is front and centre of the tournament experience – from Western Sydney to the world stage.”
Quote attributable to Chief Operating Officer of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ LOC, Sarah Walsh:
“With over half the tournament’s ticket sales expected here, it’s an extraordinary opportunity to connect with our community, celebrate our cultural diversity, and deliver an unforgettable event. Hosting the Matildas at Stadium Australia on International Women’s Day will be a defining moment in Australian sporting history, and we look forward to bringing that to life.”
“Football Australia and the LOC continue to work in close partnership with government, commercial partners and stakeholders to ensure the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ leaves a lasting legacy for the game, for women, and for the nation.”
Quote attributable to NSW Minister for Sport and Minister for Jobs, The Hon Steve Kamper MP: “The NSW Government is proud to support major international events that showcase the best of our city and the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup will write another chapter in Sydney’s history as Australia’s home of football. As the principal host city with 11 matches including the Final, we can’t wait to welcome thousands of fans from across the nation and the Asia Pacific for an incredible event experience in one of the world’s great sporting cities.”
The Final Draw for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ will take place at the Sydney Town Hall on Tuesday, 29 July 2025.
https://www.ffa.com.au/news/nsw-government-backs-2026-afc-womens-asian-cup-significant-investment