According to Football Australia, more people than ever are playing football across the country. The 2024 National Participation Report shows that over 1.9 million Australians are now involved in the sport, which is an 11% increase from last year.
The growth comes after the success of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand, as well as the strong performances of the CommBank Matildas and the Subway Socceroos. Football Australia’s grassroots programs, especially the Club Changer: Club Development Program, have also played a big role in this achievement.
Key Highlights from the Report:
- Total participation: 1,911,539 people, an 11% increase from 2023.
- Women and girls’ participation: 221,436 players, up 16%.
- Registered coaches and volunteers: Increased by 19% and 26% respectively.
- Outdoor football participation: 640,170 people, a 10% rise.
- Social football engagement: 174,846 participants, up 13%.
Impact of the Club Changer Program
The Club Changer program, which started in 2023 with the support of the Australian Sports Commission, has helped over 1,000 community clubs improve their operations. The program focuses on making clubs more welcoming for women and girls, recruiting more volunteers, and improving overall club management.
Football Australia CEO James Johnson highlighted the importance of these efforts:
“The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 inspired many people, and we want to use that excitement to grow football in Australia. Through programs like Club Changer, we are helping clubs provide a great experience for players while also making sure the game is inclusive and sustainable.”
Strong Support from Partners
Football Australia’s success is also thanks to partnerships with organizations like CommBank, Coles, and MILO. These partners help fund programs like Miniroos and Sporting Schools, which introduce young children to football. The Growing Football Fund, supported by CommBank, has helped over 200 community clubs create more opportunities for women and girls in football.
Football Australia’s efforts have been recognized internationally. The Club Changer program won the AFC President’s Recognition Grassroots Award for the second year in a row, showing its positive impact on local football.
Focus on Diversity and Inclusion
Football Australia is also working hard to include more women and girls in the game. A new Volunteer Focus Group, involving 28 clubs, has developed action plans to increase gender balance in football. The goal is to have 40% women, 40% men, and 20% flexible roles in club leadership and volunteer positions.
Football programs in schools have also grown, with a 13% increase in participation and a 21% rise in Sporting Schools programs, reaching 158,700 students across the country.
Looking Ahead
With participation numbers at an all-time high, Football Australia will continue to invest in grassroots football through initiatives like Club Changer and the Growing Football Fund. By working with local clubs, volunteers, and partners, Football Australia aims to keep football growing and create more opportunities for everyone to enjoy the game.
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