Media Statement - 18th November 2007
Federal Labor today unveiled its plan to promote participation and support for the world game – as the Socceroos begin their qualification campaign in less than three months for the next FIFA World Cup in 2010.
A Rudd Labor Government will invest $32 million to support the growth of football in Australia.
Funding will be provided to the Football Federation of Australia (FFA) – the governing body for football in Australia.
Kate Lundy announced Federal Labor’s commitment on The World Game.
Federal Labor’s investment in football will lock in the growth and the gains of the world game in Australia by providing additional support including:
- A football facilities fund to deliver grants to local grass roots football clubs;
- Australia’s participation in the 46-member Asian Football Confederation;
- A televised national women’s league; and
- Coach, referee and volunteer education and recognition programs.
We want to support the next generation of Socceroos and fostering a new Harry Kewell who grew up in western Sydney.
Federal Labor’s football funding package acknowledges the importance of investing in our national teams:
- We need to support to our Socceroos in the lead up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup – the qualification campaign commences on 6 February 2008
- We also want to make sure that our elite female players have a pathway and the match practice on the way to becoming a Matilda
It also provides significant additional support for the development of the game at a grassroots level.
There are currently more than 450,000 registered participants in football throughout the nation.
There are also close to 100,000 registered match officials and coaches and thousands of volunteers who give their time each week.
It is important that our community facilities are able to support the growing number of children who want to play football.
Federal Labor funding to FFA will ensure that the local community football club environment, including infrastructure is able to match this growing interest.
Federal Labor also knows that volunteers are central to the success of the Australian sport system. By funding football coach, referee and volunteer education and recognition programs we will ensure that our volunteers have the skills to support our clubs and feel rewarded for doing so.
Federal Labor’s funding of $32 million includes the $16 million committed to the FFA in the Mid Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook 2007-08.
Federal Labor would also support a bid for the 2018 World Cup.