Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed its collaboration with Optus, naming the leading telecommunication provider as its Official Telecommunications Partner across the Northern, Far North and Gulf regions.

The collaboration will see Optus play an active role in supporting grassroots football throughout the year-long partnership, with a visible presence at FQ precincts in both Cairns and Townsville. This will include branded signage and community-focused activations at key events, further enhancing the matchday experience for players, families, and fans.

FQ General Manager – Northern Conference, Craig Ramage, said the partnership will be a valuable boost for local communities and reflects FQ’s commitment to growing the game in regional areas.

“Football Queensland is excited to expand its long-standing relationship with Optus as we enter into a thriving partnership in the Northern and Far North & Gulf regions,” he said via press release.

“It is excellent to have a brand as prominent as Optus recognise the importance of grassroots football in regional areas.

“Optus’ year-long support will provide a crucial boost that directly benefits clubs and participants across the region, strengthening communities and actively contributing to FQ’s vision for the future of football.”

Optus General Manager North Queensland, Dave Morrissey, emphasised the importance of the North Queensland football community and Optus’ commitment to supporting the next generation as they develop into future stars of the game.

“It is our absolute pleasure to partner with Football Queensland’s Northern and Far North regions. It is great to get to watch the next generation of young players grow their skills and love for the game, and we appreciate all the support we get in return from the local community,” he said via press release.

Football communities attending events and matches at Paradise Park and Macca's Park can expect to see Optus actively involved throughout the season, with a strong presence around the grounds that reflects the brand’s commitment to regional engagement and sporting development.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have confirmed a two year extension of it's partnership with Uberline, who will continue as the organisation's Official Line Marking Partner.

As part of the renewed agreement, Uberline will continue to support football clubs and facilities across Queensland by supplying high-quality line marking products and services.

This ongoing alliance ensures that clubs in all regions have consistent and easy access to the tools they need to maintain safe, professional, and visually appealing playing fields.

By easing the workload for volunteers and contributing to the overall presentation of venues, Uberline plays a key role in supporting the growth and standard of football across the state.

Their commitment helps create a better experience for players, officials, and fans at every level of the game.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci praised Uberline as a valuable partner since 2023, highlighting its crucial support in improving field quality, easing volunteer workloads, and enhancing the overall experience across the state.

“Uberline has been a great partner for our clubs and volunteers across Queensland, and we’re proud to extend this relationship for another two years,” he said in a press release.

“As we continue to lift the quality and profile of our competitions statewide, access to specialist products and services like Uberline’s is vital.

"High-quality field presentation is critical not only for the look of our venues, but for providing safe, enjoyable experiences for participants of all ages.

“Since our partnership began in 2023, Uberline has provided valuable support to clubs and FQ venues alike, helping to ease the workload for volunteers and maintain high standards across the board. We look forward to continuing that work together."

Uberline's General Manager, Lee Thomas, said the company is proud to keep backing the Queensland football community.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Football Queensland and to support the dedicated clubs and volunteers who are the backbone of the game,” he said in a press release.

“At Uberline, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality solutions that help create safe, professional playing environments for every player, at every level. We look forward to building on the great progress we’ve made together.”

For more information on Uberline's full range of products and services, click HERE.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed the extension of its partnership with Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers for 2025.

Through this continued alliance, Gow-Gates will deliver ongoing support to Football Queensland’s members, clubs, and participants by providing access to the comprehensive Sport Insurance Program.

This program offers wide-ranging coverage designed to protect those involved in the game, with additional brokerage services that include workers’ compensation, business insurance, and personal insurance options.

The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to safety, security, and long-term sustainability within the football community.

By ensuring tailored insurance solutions are available at all levels of the game, Gow-Gates plays a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of players, coaches, officials, and volunteers.

This agreement helps create a more resilient football environment across Queensland, giving peace of mind to those who help the game thrive every day.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci welcomed the joint venture extension, highlighting its ongoing impact and benefits for the Queensland football community.  

“Gow-Gates has been a valued partner of Football Queensland for many years, ensuring our players, coaches, referees, and clubs have the protection they need to participate in our great game with confidence,” Cavallucci said in a press release.  

“With the extension of the partnership, we’re strengthening our commitment to the wellbeing of our football community, delivering security and peace of mind so everyone – whether on or off the field – can focus on what they love.” 

Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers CEO Tom Gow-Gates shared his continued support for Football Queensland and praised its lasting influence on the game.

“Football Queensland plays a vital role in developing the game at every level, and we’re proud to stand alongside them as they continue to grow and strengthen the community across the state,” Gow-Gates said in a press release.

“Our role is to help ensure players, clubs, and volunteers can focus on what matters most, with the confidence that they’re supported by insurance solutions designed for their unique needs.”

With this extended partnership, Football Queensland and Gow-Gates will work together to improve services and increase efficiency, ensuring the game stays accessible and well-supported at every level in 2025.

For more information about the Sport Insurance Program, you can visit the Gow-Gates website HERE.

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Football Queensland's (FQ) strategic master planning and advocacy work is restructuring infrastructure in football across Northern Queensland, with more than $15 million secured in the past year through state and federal pre-election funding commitments and direct FQ investment. These funds are supporting upgrades at local clubs and progressing FQ’s four master-planned Northern football hubs.

The Future of Football reforms launched by FQ in 2020 initiated a statewide master planning process, shaped by a detailed needs analysis across Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and Mount Isa. These plans underpin a targeted government engagement strategy, aligning community priorities with a clear roadmap for delivery.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci has welcomed a surge in infrastructure investment across Northern Queensland.

“Our Northern regions have always been strongholds for our game, but their infrastructure needs were overlooked for too long. That’s changing now as we’re now seeing government recognition and support starting to match the scale of football in the region – particularly in the Far North, where participation has grown by over 28% in 2024,” he said via press release.

“In addition to our direct investments into the four Northern hubs each year, our government engagement strategy led by the #EQUALISER campaign has delivered record infrastructure funding commitments statewide, including over $6 million in pre-election commitments during the 2024 state election for North Queensland and currently sitting at more than $9 million ahead of May’s federal election.”

In the Whitsunday Coast, Mackay Football Park’s master plan is delivering upgrades, including new changerooms, seating, and improved maintenance, supported by $800,000 in 2024 state election funding.

In Far North Queensland, a $4.1 million federal commitment is advancing the Macca’s Park master plan in Cairns, with new amenities and a Centre of Excellence to boost the venue’s role.

In the North West, $600,000 is funding major improvements at Mt Isa Football Park, including new female changerooms and upgraded facilities.

In Townsville, progress continues on the Paradise Park master plan, with FQ working to secure funding for a synthetic pitch to support year-round football for over 5,000 participants.

Beyond the hubs, local clubs across the Northern Conference are also benefiting, with over $2 million in pre-election funding committed to lighting upgrades, surface improvements, and amenity enhancements to support the region’s growing participation.

Cavallucci highlighted that the record funding reflects FQ’s long-term strategy, driven by the Future of Football reforms and a unified approach to advocacy.

“These record funding outcomes reflect FQ’s long-term strategic plan for regional infrastructure investment. The Future of Football reforms were critical in enabling FQ to advocate for investment through one unified voice to government. Progress is continuing to be made through a measured approach, as we invest over the next five years to bring to life and deliver the four master plans,” he continued on to say via press release.

Football Queensland will continue to collaborate with all government levels in the lead up to the 2025 federal election and beyond, advancing key projects and ensuring the needs of regional football are prioritised.

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Football Queensland (FQ) is excited to announce McDonald's as the Official Quick Service Restaurant Partner for the Far North & Gulf region.

Under the two-year regional collaboration, McDonald’s will take on naming rights to the home of football in Cairns, with Endeavour Park now officially named Macca’s Park.

The partnership also includes support for grassroots football, with McDonald’s backing local clubs and celebrating junior players across the Far North and Gulf through the weekly MiniRoos Player of the Week voucher initiative.

FQ General Manager – Northern Conference, Craig Ramage, said the partnership was a major win for the region, highlighting FQ’s continued focus on growing the game in regional Queensland.

“This is an exciting opportunity to partner with an iconic brand in McDonald’s, whose long-standing support of community football aligns strongly with our vision for the game across the state,” he said via press release.

“We’re proud to extend this relationship into the Far North & Gulf, with the support from McDonald’s set to deliver direct benefits to grassroots programs, local clubs and junior players right across the region.

“The renaming of Endeavour Park to Macca’s Park is a powerful symbol of this partnership and our shared commitment to creating vibrant and welcoming regional football hubs that inspire the next generation of participants and bring communities together.”

McDonalds Far North Queensland Marketing Manager Jill Lennox, expressed that the partnership reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting active lifestyles and local communities through sport.

“Active lives are happier and healthier lives. McDonald’s wants to deliver valuable benefits to the wider community. With the goal of helping people live a more balanced, active and enriched lifestyle, McDonald’s is passionate about its sports and community sponsorships program,” she said via press release.

“McDonald’s is very proud to be the naming rights sponsor to the home of football in Cairns now known as Macca’s Park. This partnership is our way of giving back to the community which supports us and to assist in the development of important life skills such as commitment, hard work, and friendship.

“On behalf of McDonald’s, we would like to thank all competitors, parents, organisers, volunteers and other sponsors for their incredible support of Football Far North and Gulf region and we look forward to seeing you at Macca’s Park soon.”

This alliance marks an exciting chapter for football in the Far North & Gulf, as Football Queensland and McDonald's work together to support the growth of the game across the region.

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Football Queensland has announced that it has extended it’s partnership with Social Protect, an online safeguarding software that aim’s to help protect referees from online abuse.

This expansion comes after the successful launch of Social Protect with NPL Queensland clubs last year, where it has already made a positive impact in reducing harmful online behaviour.

By extending the service to match officials, Football Queensland is taking another important step in creating a safer and more respectful environment for everyone involved in the game.

Robert Cavallucci emphasises Football Queensland's firm stance against abuse towards referees.

“Football Queensland has a zero-tolerance policy against abusive behaviour towards referees, and the introduction of Social Protect demonstrates the proactive measures we are taking to actively protect our match officials in line with the Protect Our Game initiative,” he said via press release.

“As our game continues to grow, it is more important than ever that we create a positive and safe environment for our match officials across the state, so we’re proud to offer this service to our Queensland referees free of charge to guard against harmful content and abuse across their social media accounts.”

Social Protect offers an easy-to-use mobile app that helps keep social media spaces safe by automatically removing harmful comments. It targets things like cyberbullying, hate speech, racial slurs, and scams, making online spaces more positive and respectful.

The app includes helpful features such as a quarantine zone where flagged comments can be reviewed before being permanently removed.

It also offers educational resources to help users understand online safety, along with multi-lingual support to better detect harmful content in different languages.

Designed for both individuals and organisations, Social Protect is a smart tool for creating safer, more inclusive online communities.

Shane Britten commends Football Queensland for expanding Social Protect to referees statewide, calling it a strong commitment to proactively tackling online abuse.

"Football Queensland’s decision to expand the Social Protect solution to referees across the state shows their commitment to providing proactive protection from online abuse,” he said via press release.

“We are proud to be working with a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises the wellbeing and mental health of their entire network.”

For more information on how to access the Social Protect software if you are a Queensland Referee, you can directly contact the Football Queensland’s referee team via referees@footballqueensland.com.au

To find out more about Social Protect, click here.

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Football Queensland (FQ) welcomes the $4.1 million federal election funding commitment from Matt Smith, the Australian Labor Party's candidate for Leichhardt, to deliver upgrades to Endeavour Park in Cairns, should Labor be elected in May.

The commitment follows continued advocacy through FQ’s statewide #EQUALISER campaign and marks a significant investment in the future of football in Far North Queensland.

The proposed upgrades will include improved field lighting, a new high-performance facility, and upgrades to the canteen and change room amenities.

FQ CEO, Robert Cavallucci expressed his gratitude for the proposed investment and recognised the significance of this commitment to the growth of football in the region.

“Football Queensland welcomes this $4.1 million commitment and acknowledges Mr. Smith for recognising the critical infrastructure needs of our game and the importance of Endeavour Park to the football community in the Far North," he said via press release.

“Endeavour Park is a vital facility that serves all levels of the game, from community participation across every age group to advanced high-performance player development, and this is a strong step toward delivering the infrastructure required to support football’s ongoing growth in the region. 

“Our #EQUALISER campaign continues to drive targeted advocacy across Queensland, and it is encouraging to see commitments like this reflect the message we’ve taken to all corners of the state, as we remain committed to continue working with all sides of politics to ensure our game, as Queensland’s largest participation sport, is supported now and into the future.” 

FQ’s General Manager – Northern Conference, Craig Ramage, highlighted the positive impact this investment will have on the local community.

“As the home of football in the Far North, Endeavour Park welcomes thousands of participants every week, from MiniRoos and grassroots players to our FQ Academy program and FQPL Far North & Gulf competition,” Ramage said via press release.

“This funding commitment by Mr Smith will help us continue to enhance the football experience for everyone involved in the game and ensure our region remains a strong contributor to Australia’s football future, as we work to continue producing more local stars like the CommBank Matildas’ Mary Fowler.” 

FQ’s Federal Election #EQUALISER campaign continues to push for greater investment in football infrastructure and welcomes pledges from candidates across the state.

As the sport continues to grow, FQ remains dedicated to advocating for the facilities necessary to meet the increasing demand and support the football pathway.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed the appointment of two participation officers, Phillip Rimmer and Meaghan Watts, to the Wide bay region, reinforcing its commitment to expanding regional football and inviting more community engagement opportunities for local clubs, schools and players.

FQ Game Development initiatives will be lead by Rimmer, based in the Fraser Coast, and Watts, based in Bundaberg across the region with a local, hands-on approach, zeroing in on programs such as Girls United, the FQ & Roar Football in the community program, Walking Football and Sporting schools to improve accessibility and drive participation.

Incoming Participation Officer for Fraser Coast, Philip Rimmer, has expressed his enthusiasm about working closely with local clubs and the community, drawing on his extensive experience in football to help strengthen the game at a grassroots level.

“We have a great opportunity to grow the game not only within clubs but across the wider community, ensuring more people see football as their game of choice – whether it’s playing, coaching, refereeing, or taking on a role in administration,” he said via press release.

“A big focus for me in this role will be mentoring young coaches, showing them the pathways to continue working in football and spreading the love of the sport, as well as showing the kids our great game and putting a smile on their faces.” 

Meaghan Watts, the new Participation Officer for Bundaberg, is eager to bring fresh ideas and energy to the role, leveraging her lifelong passion for football and background in sports management.

“This role felt like the perfect fit for me, combining my passion for football with my sports management degree, and I’m excited to get stuck into facilitating programs and seeing both children and adults enjoy the game,” she said via press release.

“Having played football my whole life, I understand the barriers that can exist for girls in the game, and I want to help break down these challenges by creating positive experiences that encourage more women and girls to get involved.”

Together, Rimmer and Watts will collaborate to develop and deliver engaging football programs, aiming to boost school and club participation across the Wide Bay region. Their long-term goal is to achieve a 50/50 gender balance and establish football as the sport of choice in the area.

FQ General Manager – Central Coast Conference Jordie Gerbes welcomed their appointments, emphasising the importance of their roles in providing dedicated, hands-on support to every corner of the Wide Bay region for the first time.

“Phil and Meaghan’s appointments are a key step in our ongoing investment in football across the Wide Bay, with their passion and expertise helping us connect more effectively with local clubs, schools, and participants, driving the sport forward and ensuring its long-term success in the region.”

FQ is poised to strengthen grassroots football in the Wide bay region, fostering a thriving, inclusive community where the game can flourish in the regional sectors for generations to come.

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Mackay Football Park is set to undergo significant upgrades, with a series of infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing the match-day experience for players, referees, and spectators.

The investment aligns with Football Queensland’s (FQ) long-term infrastructure strategy for the region, supporting the growing football community in Mackay and the Whitsunday Coast.

As part of its commitment to improving local facilities, FQ has also secured a new lease agreement with Mackay Regional Council for additional land.

This agreement will enable long-term facility development, ensuring the park continues to accommodate increasing participation numbers.

According to Craig Ramage, FQ’s General Manager – Northern, the upgrades are already making a noticeable impact and form a crucial part of broader efforts to foster the sport’s growth in the region.

“We’ve been listening closely to the needs of players, clubs, and spectators, and these improvements will make Mackay Football Park more functional, accessible, and safer for everyone who uses the facility,” Ramage said in a press release.

“A key part of the upgrade to the facility is the $800,000 expansion of the carpark, which has long been a point of concern, especially on busy match days, and this expansion will make a big difference by improving traffic flow, reducing delays, and ensuring smoother and safer match-day access for everyone.”

Among the key developments, new changerooms are scheduled for completion in 2025. These facilities will include two team rooms and a dedicated space for referees, catering specifically to the growing number of female players and match officials.

Additional improvements already underway include the installation of new Felton benches around the office building, along with a wheelchair-accessible picnic table, designed to enhance comfort, safety, and accessibility for all visitors.

Football Queensland continues to collaborate with local clubs, government partners, and the wider community to ensure Mackay Football Park remains a high-quality venue that meets the needs of the region’s football community.

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Football Queensland has announced the revival of the Queensland Football Convention, aimed to take place on Saturday, 25 October and Sunday, 26 October at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition centre, with early bird tickets available now.

Building on the success of its first event, the 2025 Queensland Football Convention will provide a unique opportunity for clubs, coaches, participants, and industry professionals from across Queensland to take part in insightful discussions, collaborate on key issues, and drive football’s continued growth in Queensland – all under the theme of ‘Elevate the Debate’.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci expresses excitement for the future of the event.

“The inaugural Queensland Football Convention last year was a historic moment for our game, bringing together hundreds of industry leaders, global experts, and passionate members of our football community to drive the key discussions that will continue to shape our future,” he said via press release.

“The positive engagement and feedback we received from last year’s event showcased the commitment of Queensland’s football community, with clubs and individuals across the state eager to collaborate and hear from those at the top of their fields.

“As football continues to evolve, this year’s convention is a chance to come together, share ideas, and engage with experts as we reimagine the game’s future, using our convention pillars of Technology, Sustainability, and Growth to guide us in driving innovation and progress across all facets of our game."

Across the two days, attendees will engage in thought-provoking talks, expert-led panels, and hands-on workshops covering a range of crucial topics in football, including development, talent identification, governance, and more.

The convention will also again host two major social events – the Cocktail Networking Evening and the Queensland Football Gala, as we continue to recognise and celebrate those making a difference in the game across Queensland.

“Whether you’re a Technical Director, Club President, a group of coaches, officials, or passionate administrators and participants, this event is a valuable opportunity to learn from the best and build networks that will help benefit your club, your organisation and the game as whole,” he said via press release.

Early bird tickets are now on sale for a limited time, providing discounts on convention tickets and event packages that include access to the 2025 Queensland Football Gala and the Cocktail Networking Party.

Stay up to date with event updates, announcements and news with the lead up to the Convention in October by following FQ's social channels.

To secure tickets now for the 2025 Queensland Football Convention, click here.

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Football Queensland is thrilled to announce its return of WinterFest to the Sunshine Coast from Wednesday, 2nd July to Sunday, 6th July 2025.

The state's largest junior carnival will be set to welcome over 2000 footballers, being delivered in partnership with the Sunshine Coast Council and Visit Sunshine while featuring Under 9 and Under 11 boys and girls teams from across Queensland.

The event offers a platform for emerging athletes to showcase their skills and potential while also providing FQ coaches with opportunities to track the development of players.

WinterFest provides a professional environment for players to compete while also developing the next generation of referees.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci commented on the upcoming event, highlighting its significance in junior football.

“After the success of previous editions, we’re excited to announce the return of WinterFest25, welcoming our most promising developing young talent from all regions across the state to the Sunshine Coast in July 2025," he said via press release.

“WinterFest provides a unique opportunity for players to compete in a professional setting while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the Sunshine Coast, renowned for its world-class facilities and natural beauty.   

“WinterFest25 not only gives players valuable exposure but also helps develop the next generation of elite referees. With support from experienced officials and FQ staff, these emerging referees gain essential matchday experience, contributing to Queensland’s football growth at all levels."

Sunshine Coast Strong Economy Councillor, Terry Landsberg, emphasised the Sunshine Coast Council's commitment to providing these opportunities for young athletes.

“Football Queensland has chosen to host the five-day event on the Sunshine Coast, and we are proud to support the juniors and their families coming here for the state’s biggest football carnival," he said via press release.

“This is especially significant as the Sunshine Coast is a Co-Host City for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We are proposed to host nine Olympic and Paralympic events, including preliminary football matches at Sunshine Coast Stadium.

“These gifted youngsters have the potential to represent Australia in the near future."

Visitors to WinterFest will also have the opportunity to enjoy the Sunshine Coast’s diverse range of experiences, events, and attractions.

To find out more details on WinterFest, click here.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has introduced a disaster recovery hub, dedicated to assisting clubs affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred across South East Queensland and Northern NSW.

FQ’s Disaster Recovery Hub allows a central platform available for clubs to complete the club damage report.

The Recovery Process

This report allows clubs to submit any damage that has impacted the state of the club; this may include:

• View information on crucial grants and funding support that they may require.
• Assess the state of the land.
• Understand the extent of the damage .
• Determine each club's ability to return to the game and host fixtures, as well as other forms of activity.
• Connect with volunteers who are ready to assist.

To ensure that the return to football is as efficient as possible, FQ is encouraging impacted clubs to complete this reporting form within the hub.

Queenslanders Ban Together

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci expresses the vital nature of the initiative, reiterating FQ’s support for those impacted in the football community.

“FQ’s Disaster Recovery Hub provides clubs with a central destination to outline their needs while also enabling volunteers and the wider football community to provide assistance where it is needed most,’ he said via press release.

“We know that many clubs across South East Queensland will be significantly impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, and Football Queensland is committed to providing as much support as possible throughout the recovery process.

“Our football community is built on resilience and togetherness, and just as we have done many times before, Queenslanders will band together to help each other through this challenging period."

Looking Ahead

FQ is working alongside the local and state government authorities to ensure affected clubs access the relevant resources and support required for recovery.

Clubs across Queensland will have information of available funding opportunities to help rebuild facilities and ensure the football community recovers promptly.

Click here to learn more about the FQ Disaster Recovery Hub.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has launched their #EQUALISER campaign ahead of the 2025 federal election.

After its success in 2024 strengthening advocacy for infrastructure investment, FQ will be hosting two online webinars designed to guide and prepare clubs on how to use the upcoming federal election to their advantage.

Empowering Clubs for Advocacy

The focus of this campaign is to empower Queensland’s football clubs to engage with their local federal representatives, with the goal of addressing infrastructure funding gaps. 

Following the success of the 2024 state election #EQUALISER campaign, which secured a record $28 million in pre-election project commitments, FQ is shifting the focus to a federal level.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci emphasises the need for a united push to secure funding for the sports growth.

“While the state election campaign delivered great results, the federal election offers us a unique opportunity to continue pushing for the infrastructure investment needed to meet the game’s growing demand. We still face an infrastructure funding gap, and now is the time to address it.

“With football’s growth outpacing infrastructure development, the federal election is a crucial moment to collectively advocate for the investment our clubs need to keep up with the increasing demand for facilities across Queensland,” he said via press release.

Webinars Series: A Guiding Hand for Clubs

To support clubs in this endeavour, FQ's webinars will cover:

• Lessons from the #2024 EQUALISER campaign and its successes
• How clubs can position themselves for federal election opportunities
• Project readiness and the necessary documentation for funding applications
• Effective strategies to engage with federal candidates and advocating for investment in their local football facilities

A continued push for Infrastructure Investment

Cavallucci highlighted the fresh opportunity that the federal election presents for clubs.

“Football brings people together, unites communities, and creates lifelong connections. Our clubs are often at the heart of their local areas, and we are determined to ensure they have the facilities that reflect their importance,” he said via press release.

Two online webinars are being hosted on Wednesday, March 5th, and Wednesday, March 12th

With the federal election on the horizon, FQ is calling on clubs to join the #EQUALISER campaign and actively help shape the future of football across the state.

For more on the #EQUALISER campaign, click here.

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Football Queensland (FQ) and CQUniversity (CQU) have trumpeted a groundbreaking new partnership which will link the two organisations for the next three years.

As a part of the deal, CQU will become FQ's Official University Partner and enjoy a pivotal role in delivering physiotherapy, chiropractic and podiatry education at carnivals and festivals, in player development sessions and to FQ Academy teams.

Additionally, FQ has opened placement spots specifically for CQU sports science students within the FQ Academy, providing students with firsthand experience in a professional sporting environment and delivering personalised supports to upcoming athletes.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci detailed how transformative the collaboration with CQU would be for FQ and its Academy.

“We are thrilled to partner with CQUniversity as we integrate cutting-edge education and research into our high-performance pathways, ensuring we remain dynamic in our approach and consistently implement new best practices that benefit all our participants,” he said in a press release.

“This partnership will provide FQ Academy and Queensland State Team players with access to expert physiotherapy, chiropractic, and podiatry services, while also offering CQU sports science students the opportunity to work closely with our emerging athletes, supporting training programs and player welfare, and gaining invaluable experience in an elite environment that contributes to the development of the next generation of sports science professionals.  

“We’re also excited to collaborate with CQU on future research projects aimed at advancing player development and injury prevention while opening up more opportunities for higher education pathways for FQ participants and members.”  

CQUniversity Director of Sport Strategy Professor Fabio Serpiello expressed the university's enthusiasm for the partnership.

“CQU is proud that our unique sport science, rehabilitation and community sport expertise is supporting the important work and growth of Football Queensland, across high performance, grassroots engagement, and leadership development,” he said via press release.

Dean of the School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Professor Andy Stewart explained how CQU would be able to connect with all footballers across Queensland.

“Whether it’s city or region or remote town, everywhere CQU operates in Queensland, football is a key sport in that community,” Prof Stewart said in a press release. 

“CQU’s community-connected, inclusive approach is a perfect fit to meaningfully support the growth of accessible, empowering physical activity and competition, especially for girls and women, and people of all abilities.” 

For more information on CQUniversity, click HERE.

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Football Queensland has named Performance Physio as its Official Physiotherapy Partner for all FQ Representative Programs and staff in 2025, as well as the preferred physio partner for the broader FQ football community.

This alliance will strengthen support for Queensland players by providing expert injury prevention, management, and rehabilitation services across key FQ programs and events throughout the season.

Through this collaboration, Performance Physio will provide physiotherapy, sports trainer services, and injury screening, prevention, and management at major Football Queensland events. This includes FQ Academy competitions, Queensland State Teams in the NPL U23 competition and National Youth Championships, as well as FQ Academy QAS training sessions and matchdays.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci stated that the partnership will offer essential support to players progressing through the state’s high-performance pathways.

“Football Queensland is proud to welcome Performance Physio as our Official Physiotherapy Partner for 2025. Their expertise in injury management and player welfare will be invaluable in ensuring our athletes can perform at their best while maintaining their health on and off the field,” he said via press release.

“Performance Physio has been a trusted provider of physiotherapy services within Queensland’s football community, and we’re pleased to continue working with them to provide professional, high-quality support to our FQ Academy programs.

“This partnership ensures our current and emerging players will have access to the best possible care and education, helping them develop long-term injury prevention and management skills.”

Director and Principal Physiotherapist Ranveer Atwal highlighted that the agreement will provide players with specialised football injury rehabilitation, prevention, and recovery, utilising advanced systems and equipment to support their long-term development, including priority access to sports medicine pathways.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Football Queensland to provide high-level physiotherapy support to emerging footballers across the state,” Atwal said via press release.

“This collaboration allows us to work closely with players, coaches, and teams to ensure they receive the best possible care while also learning how to manage their bodies for long-term performance.” 

As part of the collaboration, FQ community football participants can enjoy an exclusive discount on Performance Physio services in 2025 by mentioning their club when booking.

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Football Queensland has unveiled an innovative development program aimed at nurturing the next generation of female football talent across the Sunshine State.

The FQ Academy Emerging Female Program, launching this February, will provide specialised coaching for girls aged 9-13 under the expert guidance of Football Queensland Academy and Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) technical staff.

The eight-week initiative, operating alongside existing club programs, represents a significant boost to Queensland's female football pathway.

Players will receive professional coaching focused on fundamental skills development, with sessions designed to complement their regular club training.

FQ Academy QAS Isaka Cernak expressed their support of the new program.

"The launch of this program is an important step in our commitment to developing the women's game in Queensland, as we aim to support our clubs, coaches, and players who are looking for, or would benefit from additional technical skill development," Isaka Cernak said via press release.

"The program is designed to complement existing club training, helping players enhance their technical skills and football knowledge during the critical skill acquisition phase of their development, benefiting both the individual player and their club environment."

The program is also creating opportunities for aspiring female coaches.

FQ General Manager – Football & State Technical Director Gabor Ganczer highlighted this crucial aspect.

"Supporting the growing number of female coaches is critical to the long-term success of the women's game, and through this program, we are creating more opportunities for current and aspiring female coaches to develop their skills and advance their technical knowledge," Ganczer commented via FQ official press release.

The initiative aligns with FQ's ambitious 2024-2026 Women and Girls Strategy, which targets 50/50 gender parity by 2027.

It's particularly timely as Queensland looks towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with organisers hoping to unearth and develop future CommBank Matildas talent.

Term 1 Key Information:

• Tuesday, 11 February – Tuesday, 1 April 2025

• Time: 4:00pm – 5:00pm

• 8 sessions per term (1 per week for 8 weeks)

• Nudgee Recreation Reserve, 290 Elliott Rd, Nudgee

• Cost: $100

• Age groups: U9-U13 girls

Football Queensland has indicated plans to expand the program, with further announcements expected in the coming months.

The impressive growth of women’s football in Queensland has been consistently supported through the state's footballing federation. It is hopeful this program can deliver more opportunities for young girls to advance their development and football ambitions.

Interested participants must register by Friday, 7 February 2025, register for term 1 through the link here.

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Football Australia and Football Queensland have presented a comprehensive infrastructure proposal for the Queensland Government’s 100-day infrastructure review for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, positioning the sport as a key driver of long-term regional development.

The submission champions a strategic approach that leverages football's significant community impact, highlighting the sport's 350,000 active participants across Queensland.

Central to the proposal is a purpose-built Tier 2 rectangular stadium, potentially located at Perry Park, designed to accommodate 17,000 to 20,000 spectators with capacity for an additional 13,000 temporary seats during the Games.

The proposal also includes:

Enhancements to Training Sites

• Strategic upgrades to Meakin Park's Queensland State Home of Community Football, creating a versatile multi-sport infrastructure in a rapidly expanding urban corridor.
• Guarantees FIFA tournament compliance while establishing enduring high-performance facilities for community and elite athletes.

Innovative Regionalisation Approach

• Champions a decentralised Games delivery model to amplify participation across broader Queensland communities.
• Introduces collaborative content-sharing and strategic partnerships to bolster regional sporting infrastructure and engagement.

Cost Savings and Value Creation

• Identifies potential savings and revenue opportunities exceeding $1 billion through optimised venue design.
• Commits to generating substantive economic benefits and sustainable legacies for Queensland's diverse communities.

Football Australia Chairman Anter Isaac emphasised the proposal's broader vision.

"Brisbane 2032 represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver a legacy for communities across Queensland and across the Asia-Pacific region. Football's submission aligns with a best for city, state and games, master planned approach with a focus on innovation and sustainability," Issac commented on FQ official press release.

Football Australia CEO James Johnson also joined in underscoring the stadium's significance.

"A purpose-built rectangular stadium is critical to addressing the needs of the sport in Queensland. This venue will not only elevate the fan experience but also position Brisbane to host future international tournaments," Johnson explained via FQ official press release.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci was keen to highlight the grassroots focus that this investment would deliver.

"Football Queensland's priority is to ensure the benefits of Brisbane 2032 extend to every community in the state. By investing in regional and grassroots infrastructure, this proposal ensures all Queenslanders can be part of the Games' legacy," Cavallucci expressed via FQ official press release.

The proposal has garnered support from key stakeholders including the Asian Football Confederation, Oceania Football Confederation, Australian Professional Leagues, Brisbane Roar, and Professional Footballers Australia.

Football Australia and Football Queensland’s approach show a unified football push to try and garner an exciting sporting and footballing spine within the city of Brisbane and wider areas, using innovation and sustainability to enhance a positive prospect.

With a comprehensive vision spanning elite and community levels, football's Olympic submission represents a significant strategic play for the sport's future in Queensland.

Read the official proposal from Football Queensland here.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has celebrated its successful Multicultural Programs after a year of impressive advancement.

The programs attracted over 900 participants from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, from more than 50 different cultures and nationalities.

FQ Manager, Inclusion Football, Sam Escobar applauded the work of the initiatives.

"Our multicultural programs demonstrate the transformative power of football to connect communities, break down barriers, and create opportunities for individuals to thrive,” he said in a press release.

"This year’s programs were delivered across key regional areas, including Townsville and Toowoomba, where they provided essential support to recently arrived refugee communities including those coming from conflict-affected regions such as Ukraine and Palestine."

To grow the level of inclusion with football in Queensland, FQ's Multicultural Youth Program (ages 4-11) and Multicultural Settlement Program (ages 12-20) were highly influential.

“The Multicultural Youth and Settlement Programs have been a resounding success this year as we continue to evolve them to best suit the needs of those who participate, combining football development and participation with social learning support to young people both on and off the pitch," Escobar continued. 

“This year the MYP was delivered in conjunction with the Q-League Schools Program, providing participating schools with a holistic approach to student development, allowing students to not only be able to enhance their football skills through regular competitive games in Q-league, but also grow personally through the social-emotional learning framework embedded within the MYP."

In addition to providing programs for CALD communities, FQ has also worked to increase female representation in football.

“This year we were also excited to have also delivered female-only initiatives that encouraged more women and girls to participate in the sport within confidence-building and comfortable environments, ensuring that no matter your age, skill level or background, everyone has a place in our game," Escobar said. 

Football Queensland will endure to support diverse and marginal communities' participation in football across 2025. 

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Despite its slow start to the season, many pundits believe this season’s Sydney F.C. squad is one of the strongest for many years.

Consequently, it has been difficult for striker Jaiden Kucharski to be selected on a regular basis. However, Jaiden Kucharski’s journey is one marked by moments of brilliance and potential.

For those who observed the power-laden goal he scored against Brisbane Roar in Round 3 and the disallowed volley he despatched against Wanderers two weeks ago, there is no doubt he has all the attributes of a goal-scoring maestro.

Additionally, his powerful right-footed drive from outside the penalty area last Sunday nearly found its mark for a ten-man Sydney F.C. to achieve a 2-2 draw, only to be denied by the agility of Central Coast Mariners custodian Dylan Peraic-Cullen.

[caption id="attachment_27806" align="alignright" width="400"] Photo credit: Jaime Castaneda / Sydney FC[/caption]

None of this comes as a surprise, as Jaiden Kucharski’s Sydney F.C. record includes twenty-nine goals in three seasons in the NPL Men’s competition.

So, what does the future hold for this talented twenty-two-year-old?

In this interview with Roger Sleeman, Jaiden Kucharski talks about his early exposure to football, his progression through the Sydney FC Academy to the senior squad, and his ambitions in the senior game.

ROGER SLEEMAN

Can you outline your early introduction to the game?

JAIDEN KUCHARSKI

After starting at Glenwood Redbacks as a five year old, I moved to the Football Development Academy and eventually progressed to the Sydney FC Academy at the age of fourteen via the NSW Institute.

R.S.

Who were the early influences in your career?

J.K.

I followed Messi and Ronaldo and also worshipped Tim Cahill, Mark Viduka and Harry Kewell.

Also, due to my Polish background, I admired Robert Lewandowski as a goalscorer.

R.S.

You are equally accomplished on both feet  with ferocity on both sides.

When there are so many one sided players in the A-League, how have you managed to achieve this milestone?

J.K.

There was a coach called Cormack at the FDA who worked with me to improve my weaker left side when we went for periods without using the right foot in training.

At the weekends when I was eight or nine, I would train with the ten to fourteen year olds which also harnessed my two sided skills.

At the Sydney FC Academy, Kelly Cross has also nurtured my left side further and now I believe my shooting is better with my left side.

R.S.

You’ve been scoring goals for fun in NPL competition so what role do you see yourself playing?

J.K.

I’ve grown up playing as many positions as possible

However, I want to play up front as one of the two nines and being a target man to either drop to receive the ball and also playing in between and along the last line of defence.

I also want to be able to take the ball myself and score goals by taking opponents on.

[caption id="attachment_27810" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Photo credit: Jaime Castaneda / Sydney FC[/caption]

R.S.

The goal you scored against Brisbane Roar in Round 2 was one of the hardest shots ever seen in the A-League.

Could you explain how you did it?

J.K.

My best attribute is my striking contact with the ball, assisted by strong groins and when the cutback came I hit through the ball as hard as I could.

R.S.

Are you prepared to wait for that break to get more game time?

J.K.

I’m contracted with Sydney FC until June next year and I’ve made the most of my playing time so far, but in the end selection is up to the coach.

I could also leave during the transfer window in January if the club allowed me.

[caption id="attachment_27808" align="alignright" width="400"] Photo credit: Jaime Castaneda / Sydney FC[/caption]

R.S.

Have you had recent discussions with the coaching staff regarding your role in the squad?

J.K.

Not really as I just do everything in training to impress.

However, it was heartening to get a full game against F.C. Kaya and the goal I scored just inside the box to make a 3-0 scoreline, reinforced what I can do when I get space in front of goal.

R.S.

Would you leave Sydney F.C. when your contract expires, and if so where would you go to?

J.K.

I could go to Poland where I have citizenship but I also believe Germany would suit my style of football as an attacking player.

R.S.

It is a star studded squad at Sydney FC but you would be a certain starter at most other A-League clubs.

If the right offer came, would you move to another A-League club?

J.K.

Anything is possible, providing I’m getting game time and further developing as a footballer.

R.S.

Which of your team-mates do you really relate to?

J.K.

Adrian Segecic is an old team-mate who laid the ball off to me for the Brisbane Roar goal and three years ago I provided the pass which allowed him to score his first A- League goal against Macarthur Bulls.

Also, Anthony Caceres is a great foil and I’ve learned a lot from Joe Lolley and more recently Douglas Costa who is impeccable in his movement.

The new striker, Patryck Klimala, is a clinical striker and Leo Sena has that touch of genius which any young player can learn from.

[caption id="attachment_27809" align="aligncenter" width="571"] Photo credit: Jaime Castaneda / Sydney FC[/caption]

R.S.

What is your opinion of the A-League?

J.K.

Foreigners I’ve met say they didn’t expect the A-League to be so strong.

It’s a great step up from NPL to APL as the pace and pressure is so much more demanding.

R.S.

Where do see yourself in three years time?

J.K.

Playing overseas as a regular starter, ideally in a First Division setup.

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Brisbane Roar, Football Queensland (FQ), and the Queensland Government (QLD) have partnered to give more young people the chance to play football in the sunshine state.

Under the 'Active! Queensland' initiative, the QLD Government will provide a grant to Brisbane Roar's not-for-profit organisation Roar Recreation and Welfare Limited, extending the Football Queensland and Roar Football in the Community Program.

The funding aims to empower more children to get involved in sport and increase the number of active footballers.

Over 10,000 junior participants are estimated to take part in a range of different activities in the program across 2025.

Brisbane Roar will be responsible for organising over 270 clinics through the scheme, these will include school holiday clinics, community and school programs, training and education, plus game day activities.

Minister for Sport, Tim Mander, outlined the importance of the partnership for Queenslander children.

“To have a healthy community, it is essential that we have an active community,” he said in a press release.

“The physical, social and psychological rewards of sport are enormous, and football plays an important role in seeing these benefits reach young Queenslanders.

“Which is why we are proud to partner with Brisbane Roar to help more local kids enjoy the game, and hopefully set them on a path to years of involvement in sport and active recreation.”

Brisbane Roar Chairman and CEO, Kaz Patafta, expressed his appreciation for the extensive partnership.

“From our ongoing consultation with the Queensland Government, we are beyond grateful to be receiving this support to grow our community programs in collaboration with Football Queensland," he said via press release.

“With this new funding, Brisbane Roar together with Football Queensland is set to provide more opportunities for local Queensland kids to engage in football, aiming to expand the sport’s reach and impact across the region.

“We’re delighted to be able to provide more opportunities to local Queensland kids to play football as we endeavour to continue growing the game across Queensland."

The partnership kicked off last Thursday at Suncorp stadium.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has celebrated a successful year of player development in the Northern region across youth and junior football through the FQ Academy.

The FQ Academy is Queensland's only recognised way for players to achieve state and national team representation and showed significant progress over 2024. The Northern region covers some of Queensland's rural major hubs, including Townsville, Charters Towers, Ayr and Ingham.

In the Northen region, over 150 players participated in the FQ Acadamy across the U9 to U16 age groups, illustrating the influence of adopting Football Australia's latest national technical standards.

The success of the FQ Academy in the Northern region was further embellished through the selection of 10 local players in Queensland state teams, to compete at the Girls and Boys National Youth Championships in Melbourne and Wollongong.

FQ General Manager, Football & State Technical Director, Gabor Ganczer, expressed his joy for the achievements in the Northern region.

“2024 has been a tremendous year for football in the Northern region, with significant strides in player development as the FQ Academy continues to play a pivotal role in providing young athletes with access to world-class coaching and competitive platforms that continue to raise the standard of football in the region,” he said via press release.

“The progress seen throughout the region is the result of a sustained, long-term approach to player development, with a focus on upskilling coaches and equipping clubs with the tools and resources they need to ensure all players are supported at every stage of their journey.”  

FQ Senior Manager, Technical (Northern Conference), Michael Edwards applauded the work of the FQ Academy.

“The inclusion of local players in the Queensland state teams highlights the significant impact of the continued investment in Northern football programs, helping to elevate talented athletes to elite levels of competition," he said in a press release.

“The foundation we’ve laid this year, with the FQ Academy at the forefront, will not only set the stage for greater success in the years to come but also drive the continued growth of football in the Northern region and beyond, ensuring clear and accessible pathways for all players to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.”  

Football Queensland remains committed to developing the level of coaching skill and to enhancing player development in the Northern region in 2025 and beyond.

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Football Queensland's Far North and Gulf region has recorded unprecedented development figures throughout 2024, transforming the regional football landscape.

Football Queensland has stated that coaching participation has soared by 800%, while available courses have also increased to 400%, heralding a new era for football development in Queensland's northern corridor.

The introduction of female-only coaching courses has proved pivotal. With 29 participants, Football Queensland has marked a significant advancement towards its 2027 gender parity target and built on the growing appeal of female coaching in the region.

Football Queensland General Manager and State Technical Director Gabor Ganczer noted the significance of these developments.

“Delivering courses specifically designed for female participants forms part of FQ’s broader commitment to inclusivity and diversity, as outlined in our 2023-2026 One Football Strategy, as we continue striving to reach our 50/50 gender parity target by 2027 by supporting and catering for women and girls across all roles in football," he said via press release.

"These figures demonstrate our organisation's commitment to grassroots development. The response has exceeded all expectations.

The expansion of coach education remains paramount for Football Queensland's Far North and Gulf region, with local capacity building central to its strategy. The development of both players and coaches ensures clear pathways within the FQ Academy for local talent to progress to state and national representation.

Football Australia's revised course structures have enhanced the relevance of coaching education for community practitioners across the region. These modifications provide coaches with refined tools and methodologies to better support grassroots player development.

The organisation's commitment to excellence will extend into 2025 with the planned introduction of the AFC/FQ B Diploma, further strengthening the region's coaching pathway.

FQ Senior Manager - Technical (Northern Conference) Michael Edwards emphasised the strategic importance of this data.

“The growth of the FNG region’s football ecosystem in 2024 is also reflected in the rising commitment of local clubs to invest in their professional development, with Cairns-based Southside Comets FC making history by becoming one of the first four regional clubs to achieve Tier 2 club development status," he said via press release.

“This milestone reflects a strong commitment to not only improving coaching practices but also expanding their club’s access to the FQ Academy pathway."

These achievements align with Football Queensland's 2023-2026 One Football Strategy, establishing clear pathways through the FQ Academy for emerging talent.

As Football Queensland moves into 2025, these developmental foundations are a positive first step to further advance regional football throughout the Far North and Gulf region.

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Football Queensland's digital broadcasting platform, FQTV, has achieved remarkable growth in 2024, viewership across all competitions increased by 23%, with an additional 315,000 viewers tuning in to Queensland football content.

The platform's success has been particularly evident in women's football, which experienced an extraordinary 113% surge in viewership, attracting 118,000 new viewers. This growth aligns with Queensland's record-breaking 44% increase in female participation for 2024.

FQTV's Match Centre remains the primary platform for streaming Queensland's major football competitions, including the National Premier Leagues Queensland, Football Queensland Premier League, and various statewide tournaments.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci highlighted the significance of this achievement.

"This year's viewership surge is a testament to the growing demand for local football content as FQ recorded an additional 315,000 viewers tuning in to watch Queensland's football action on FQTV, demonstrating the expanding reach and increasing interest in high-quality, community-driven football," he said via FQ press release.

"Through the streaming of matches on FQTV's Match Centre, clubs gain exposure to a much larger audience, which is key to strengthening community and commercial ties and is an invaluable tool for clubs to showcase their on-field talent, captivate new supporters to boost matchday attendances, and increase sponsorship value and opportunity."

The platform has also seen significant growth in regional football coverage, expanding its streaming services to include more matches from the Kappa Pro Series and statewide Kappa Queensland Cup.

Looking ahead to major sporting events, including the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026™ and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, Cavallucci emphasised the platform's role in capitalising on football's growing momentum.

"With the excitement following the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™ and upcoming events such as the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026™ and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, local clubs now have an unprecedented opportunity to capitalise on this momentum," he added via FQ press release.

FQTV's Match Centre’s increased viewership is a strong indicator for the growing support local football is receiving from their fan base in Queensland. Local football has been struggling for recognition in Australia and this data proves that the sport's growth opportunity is there.

With the coming second tier in 2025, the Australian football pyramid is gaining community and financial support.

This news from one of Australia’s strongest footballing states only strengthens the popularity for the sport and its justified call for support to develop.

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Football Queensland (FQ) marked major milestones in youth and junior player development across the Far North and Gulf (FNG) region in 2024, as the FQ Academy continued to establish itself as the leading pathway for developing football talent in the area.

FQ have put a focus on academy over the last 12 months, utilising different programs and partnerships to help springboard off the men's and women's international success.

The overall goal is to have Queensland at the forefront of Australian football talent, representing the Socceroos and Matildas in high volume.

Club Development Ambassador – Far North & Gulf (Cairns) Jack Southwell discussed the many reasons why there has been a surge in the region, following FQ's plans of focusing on academy success.

“Football in the Far North and Gulf is flourishing, with more promising young athletes than ever before gaining access to top tier coaching and competitive opportunities through the FQ Academy, driving a surge in participation and engagement from both players and clubs, and fuelling a growing enthusiasm for the game across the region,” Southwell said in a press release.

“This year, the region has experienced a 350% increase in the number of players involved in the FQ Academy, with over 220 players—both male and female—joining the program. This surge in participation speaks to the increasing recognition of young players in the quality of development provided by the FQ Academy to help them reach their full potential.

“One of the standout achievements of the 2024 season was the selection of 27 local players from the FNG region to represent Queensland at the National Youth Championships, showcasing the FQ Academy pathway’s excellence in elite coaching, specialised development, and competitive opportunities.

"This alignment with national technical standards not only highlights the growing strength of the FQ Academy but also continues to open doors for local talent to reach the highest levels of the game.

“Building on the success of 2024, Football Queensland will continue to strengthen local coaching expertise and enhance player development across the Far North and Gulf region in 2025, creating a sustainable and advanced football ecosystem for players, coaches, and clubs to thrive.”

This comes after FQ confirmed their Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) Youth and Junior programs will partner with Brisbane Roar for 2025.

This is to aid the QAS program into developing more professional players through a strengthened, narrow pathway that utilises the states only professional team.

The recent moves by FQ to focus on their academy structure and progress is proving to be successful and they are strongly committed to creating opportunities for players, coaches, and clubs to reach their potential. Football Queensland looks forward to another successful season in 2025.

FQ will continue to prioritise growth in the Far North and Gulf region and beyond, with the FQ Academy at the forefront of this mission.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed the expansion of the Coach Education Tutors (CET) program. This initiative emphasises a developmental focus on rural and urban communities across the state to benefit high-quality coach and player development.

FQ now has over 40 CETs in grassroots and foundation courses. The addition of eight new C Diploma and four new B Diploma tutors will be a cornerstone of FQ's 2023-2026 One Football Strategic plan and FQ's 2024-2026 Game Development Strategy.

The benefits of the expansion of the CETs program are as follows:

• Amplify the quality of coaching across Queensland
• Talent development support has increased
• Enhance player experience through access to qualified coaches
• Mentorship opportunities are available to new coaches

FQ General Manager - Football and State Technical Director, Gabor Ganzcer, spoke about the increase in the CET program and its benefits for FQ's long-term success in development.

"By providing quality training and upskilling opportunities, we foster a culture of excellence that resonates across all game levels. Every coach plays a crucial role in delivering a top-tier experience, and we are dedicated to equipping them with the best training available," he said in a press release.

"Expanding our network of CETs will not only enhance the quality of coaching across the state but also enrich the overall experience for players as access to more qualified coaches will empower our community and help nurture the next generation of football talent."

Football Australia's established interview process and thorough screening of new CETs ensure a high-quality football experience for more participants. Capitalising on modern technology and an updated learning/training program to upskill tutors, FQ will provide high standards of football education in regional and metropolitan Queensland communities.

FQ Technical Director - Coach Development, Davide Bartamini, highlights the strengthening of the community coaching framework.

The enhancement of the CET program will send representatives to rural grassroots areas, focusing on statewide development. Making football accessible throughout Queensland and providing ample developmental initiatives to increase talent and participation are key long-term strategies for the state.

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Football Australia has officially announced the launch of the National Second Tier (NST) competition, a key milestone in its commitment to advancing domestic club football in Australia.

Following extensive workshops and consultations with the eight NST Foundation Clubs, Football Australia confirmed the NST will kick off in October 2025, highlighting the best in Australian club football through a modern and sustainable competition model.

Key Aspects of the 2025 NST Competition:

Commitment to Play: Football Australia, the NST Foundation Clubs, and stakeholders are committed to launching the NST in 2025, aligning with the strategic goal of connecting Australia's football pyramid and elevating iconic clubs to a national level.

Competition Structure: The NST will feature 16 teams, starting with group-stage matches and culminating in an elimination Finals Series. This structure is designed to balance sustainability with competitive integrity and commercial appeal.

Team Composition: The eight NST Foundation Clubs will gain automatic entry and be joined by eight invitational clubs, selected from the Member Federation NPL State Premiers, forming a truly national competition.

Season Timeline: The NST season will run annually from October to December, featuring nine match day rounds and concluding with a Championship Final in early December. This timeline aligns with the Domestic Match Calendar, ensuring optimal scheduling for players, fans, and stakeholders.

Brand Launch: Football Australia will unveil the competition’s official name, brand identity, marketing materials, and trophy design in the coming months, setting the stage for a memorable inaugural season.

Football Australia CEO James Johnson shared his excitement about the NST: “The introduction of the National Second Tier is a landmark moment for football in Australia. Following productive discussions with our eight Foundation Clubs and consultation with other stakeholders, we are committed to creating a competition that not only elevates our game but also enriches the football community at all levels. The National Second Tier will provide a new platform for iconic clubs to showcase their talent and connect with fans nationwide.”

Football Australia will continue collaborating with NST Foundation Clubs, Member Federations, and stakeholders to finalise the operational details for the competition.

Over the past year, Football Australia has conducted two detailed Request for Proposal (RFP) processes to select NST clubs. With advisory support from BDO, 14 clubs across six states and territories have met the technical requirements for the NST RFP process.

Of these 14 clubs, six did not meet the financial requirements for a standalone NST home-and-away league before the June 2024 deadline. Football Australia will monitor these clubs as they strengthen their proposals.

[caption id="attachment_27072" align="alignnone" width="565"] Marconi Stallions announced as a founding club of the National Second Tier.[/caption]

Additionally, Football Australia will initiate a third NST RFP selection process, extending eligibility to clubs outside the initial Expression of Interest and focusing on underrepresented regions to identify additional foundation clubs.

The eight clubs announced in November 2023—APIA Leichhardt FC, Avondale FC, Marconi Stallions FC, Preston Lions FC, South Melbourne FC, Sydney Olympic FC, Sydney United 58 FC, and Wollongong Wolves FC—remain central to the NST’s future and will continue as foundation members.

The six additional clubs that have met the NST RFP technical criteria are Adelaide City FC, Caroline Springs-George Cross FC, Gold Coast United FC, Gungahlin United FC, South Hobart FC, and Sunshine Coast FC.

Further updates will be provided as the NST evolves, with a standalone NST home-and-away league remaining a key strategic goal once minimum requirements are met.

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Football Queensland has welcomed the confirmation from Michael Healy, Member for Cairns and Minister for Tourism and Sport, of a $3.5 million funding pledge to upgrade Endeavour Park, contingent on Labor's re-election in November.

The planned upgrades at Endeavour Park, the heart of football in Far North Queensland, would address key elements of Football Queensland’s Endeavour Park Master Plan.

The plan aims to enhance the football experience, support multi-use functionality, and generate economic benefits for the region.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci thanked Minister Healy for support and discussed improving participation in the Far North region.

“Football Queensland continues to advocate for infrastructure funding through our statewide #EQUALISER initiative to support the rapid growth of our game as the state’s largest participation sport, and we thank Minister Healy for his support of football in the Far North with this significant commitment to upgrade facilities at Endeavour Park,” Cavallucci said in a statement.

“As our home of football in the Far North region, Endeavour Park plays an integral role in the delivery of football competitions and programs for participants at every level while providing a pathway through the FQ Academy program to Australia’s national teams for local footballers with aspirations to be like former Cairns player and much-loved Matilda, Mary Fowler.

“As we continue recording strong year-on-year growth in participation across the region, an upgrade to Endeavour Park is crucial to ensure we can deliver a positive football experience for all who are part of our game.”

FQ General Manager – Northern Region Craig Ramage expressed the same sentiment as Cavallucci about the possible upgrade.

“Football Queensland welcomes the announcement by Minister Healy of a $3.5 million funding commitment to upgrade the home of football in the Far North, Endeavour Park,” Ramage said in a statement.

“The upgrade of Endeavour Park aligns with FQ’s Master Plan for the facility and will deliver incredible benefits to the more than 4,100 members of our football community who attend the venue each week and participate in football as Cairns’ most popular sport.”

Football Queensland's State Election #EQUALISER Campaign is continuing to make strides in advocating for football, with a focus on community infrastructure and facility investments from candidates in every electorate.

The campaign’s impact is evident, as 16 grassroots clubs across Queensland have secured significant funding, ranging from $150,000 to $3.8 million, from both local councils and the state government.

After the $800k pledge from the LNP for the Mackay Football Park carpark upgrade if they win the election, FQ have covered all bases here and have guaranteed a mega upgrade to one or more of their facilities.

FQ are adamant on aligning with their 2024–2026 Infrastructure Strategy and this is another step in the right direction.

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Football Queensland has expressed its support for Nigel Dalton’s pledge of $800,000 to upgrade the carpark at Mackay Football Park, contingent on the LNP's success in the November election.

This commitment aligns with Football Queensland’s 2024–2026 Infrastructure Strategy, released in August, and would fulfil a key element of the Mackay Football Park Master Plan, providing substantial benefits to the Whitsunday Coast football community.

The ground, based in Glenalla on the Whitsunday Coast, has a rich history and strong community ties. It has been longing for an upgrade and hosts many junior tournaments through the year.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci spoke about the importance of this funding and how it relates to the #EQUALISER campaign.

“As we continue advocating for infrastructure funding as part of Football Queensland’s statewide #EQUALISER initiative, investment in football facilities like Mackay Football Park plays a crucial role in supporting the ongoing growth of the game as the state’s largest participation sport,” Cavallucci said in a statement.

“The #EQUALISER initiative highlights the critical need for greater investment in football infrastructure to support the growing demands of the game, and Football Queensland remains committed to working with all levels of government to achieve strong outcomes for our football clubs and participants across the state.”

FQ General Manager of the Northern Region Craig Ramage echoed the statements of Cavallucci.

“Football Queensland welcomes the announcement by Nigel Dalton of an $800,000 funding commitment to upgrade the carpark at Mackay Football Park,” he said in a statement.

“With almost 3,400 members of the local football community visiting Mackay Football Park each week, an upgrade of the carpark will deliver significant benefits to our Whitsunday Coast participants and their families and help us improve the football experience for everyone involved in our beautiful game.”

Football Queensland’s State Election #EQUALISER Campaign continues to drive advocacy for football, community football infrastructure and facility investments from candidates in every electorate.

Clearly the campaign is having success, benefitting 16 grassroots clubs across Queensland with sizeable funding (ranging from $150,000 to $3.8m) from local councils and the state government.

This is another example of political parties pledging to invest a great amount of money to grow the state’s largest participation sport, with an international tournament around the corner.

Football Queensland continue to lead the way in the football business spectre, ensuring that the sport grows at all levels and that governments, who historically neglected football, are starting to put it into focus.

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Queensland's sporting community will benefit from comprehensive state government grants, which will help kids join local clubs, support elite athletes, and upgrade facilities.

For children

• Access up to $200 in FairPlay vouchers per eligible child to assist with sport and recreation club membership costs.
• Support of up to $800 is available through Emerging Athlete Pathways for athletes and officials under 18 attending state, national and international competitions.

For clubs and organisations

• Become a registered organisation to accept FairPlay vouchers, allowing eligible children to use up to $200 towards membership, registration or participation fees.
• Register your organisation's competitions at state, national and international levels through Emerging Athlete Pathways to enable athlete and official funding eligibility.
• Apply for the Minor Infrastructure and Inclusive Facilities Fund to create accessible, safe and inclusive community sport and recreation spaces.
• Not-for-profit sport and recreation organisations can access Active Clubs funding to support volunteers and deliver flexible, safe physical activities to boost participation.

Disaster recovery

• Eligible not-for-profit sport and recreation organisations affected by significant weather events can apply for up to $5,000 through the Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program to restart operations.

Other Sports and Recreation funding sources

• Explore funding opportunities for not-for-profit organisations through your local council.
• Contact your state sport and recreation organisation for information about activity-specific funding options.
• Access various funding programs for individuals and sporting organisations through Sport Australia.

Sporting clubs have always been vocal about the importance that government backing has in the upkeep of the sporting industry.

Though it will take time to see the full effect of these grants, this comprehensive list of grants shows that Queensland’s government is dedicated to supporting its sporting industry.

It’s a positive sign and hopefully, it will help increase the sporting output and relieve the financial stress for the people of Queensland. A strong sporting Queensland is a benefit for sport in the country as a whole.

Learn more here.

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Football Queensland’s referee strategy for 2025-26 focuses on developing quality refereeing with clubs to enhance the game quality in the state.

FQ has piloted this move with clubs Logan Lightning FC and Moreton City Excelsior FC ahead of the program’s expansion in 2025.

This program should deliver a positive referee and club environment for referees offering extensive pathways for excellence and recognition.

FQ manager of Referee Development Mark Simon-Green has supported this program.

“The club referee program delivers significant benefits by boosting community involvement in refereeing, strengthening referee participation and the quality of referee education within our local clubs," he said via press release.

“The club referee program will significantly enhance referee coverage and address appointment inefficiencies by enabling young referees to officiate at their clubs before and after their matches, while also providing focused training and support at a single venue.

“Our initial selection and the success of Logan Lightning and Moreton City Excelsior FC as the two pilot clubs in the program reflected their significant commitment to referee training.

“As we expand the initiative to additional clubs across Queensland in 2025, club referees who are registered to a club will be able to officiate MiniRoos matches and, with the support of a Football Queensland registered match official, also officiate Under 13s, Under 14s, and Under 15s boys’ and girls’ academy and community level junior football matches.

“All clubs who participate in the program from next year will be required to have a designated Club Referee Coordinator responsible for overseeing the appointment of match officials, ensuring ongoing support for referees, and facilitating the smooth rollout and operation of the program.”

Referees are key to football at all levels and are a hot topic for the sport, however, quality referees struggle to get the education and support needed to deal with the pressures of the role.

FQ's Investment in referee education at the club level shows that the FQ and its clubs support education for good officiating to fix officiating problems.

Providing referee’s good education is an important step in helping them have the confidence to continue, this program will hopefully grow the respectful relationship between referees and the spectators and players of the sport.

A promising start that in time will tell if it has been delivered.

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Football Queensland has confirmed the FQ Academy Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) Youth and Junior programs for 2025 will continue to evolve, focusing on enhancing the development of high-potential players and strengthening pathways to professional football by further aligning with Brisbane Roar FC.

As the 2024 season comes to a close, the FQ Academy QAS program celebrates a successful year, with several current and former players securing youth contracts and scholarships with Brisbane Roar and earning selections for the Junior and Young Matildas squads.

FQ Academy QAS is the elite football development program for women and girls in Queensland. Established in 1992, it provides a full time playing and training environment for female players aged U13 to U18 with established top coaches leading the way.

The FQ Academy QAS U18 side participate in the NPL Queensland Women’s competition, with players gaining valuable experience and development opportunities against Senior Women’s teams.

Providing a pathway to Liberty A-League sides including the Brisbane Roar, graduates of the FQ Academy QAS have also gone on to represent the country with national teams following their time in the NPL Women competition.

FQ General Manager – Football & State Technical Director Gabor Ganczer discussed this deal with Brisbane Roar and the future of the academy.

“Building on this season’s achievements, the structural adjustments to the FQ Academy QAS program for the 2025 season will further enhance both our Junior and Youth programs, with players benefitting from tailored development strategies aimed at preparing them for professional contracts and on-field success,” Ganczer said in a joint statement.

“Starting in 2025, the FQ Academy QAS program for Under 17-19s and up to Under 23s will shift towards aligning with Brisbane Roar’s professional environment and playing styles. This shift includes elevating the age band and providing playing and training opportunities and game time for FQ Academy QAS and Brisbane Roar contracted players in the NPL Women to support continued growth throughout the athlete categorisation period in line with long term player development principles.

“Football Queensland’s continued commitment to support high-potential player development through the FQ Academy’s strategic alignment with Brisbane Roar and the Queensland Academy of Sport will ensure a clear pathway for athletes over 18 to remain within the program whilst also playing up and experiencing the A-League with Brisbane Roar’s Women’s team during the regular season.

“In this new structure, current Brisbane Roar players will also be able to play back in the NPL Women, allowing Under 23-aged Roar squad members to return to the FQ Academy QAS for match fitness and injury recovery should they not be A-League tied."

Conclusion

This is a smart decision by both FQ and the Roar who aim to make the academy the best in Australia at developing women for the professional game.

It also allows more top young talent to potentially shine in the A-League Women's competition, a league that developed every Matilda that featured in the successful 2023 Women's World Cup.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has decided to buck national trends in increased registration fees by keeping the same low fees from past seasons for 2025.

FQ’s prices for the 2025 season will be $50 for MiniRoos, $66 for Juniors and $130 for Seniors making them the lowest registration fees in Australia.

President of Football Queensland, Paula Robinson, champions the federation's economic management throughout the years to deliver affordable sport to a growing audience.

“The Football Queensland Board of Directors is extremely proud to keep its registration fees unchanged for yet another year. Having the lowest registration fees of any Member Federation means football in Queensland is one of the most financially accessible sports in the country. No wonder we have more Queenslanders than ever wanting to take to the football fields,” she said via FQ press release.

“As we continue to experience record year-on-year growth in participation across the state, the decision to not increase governing body fees for a fifth year reflects Football Queensland’s commitment to ensuring football remains accessible to all Queenslanders, no matter their age, background or location."

Football Queensland CEO, Robert Cavallucci, explained how the governing body continue to manage difficult reforms.

“Football Queensland continues to undertake very difficult and significant reforms to its operational design, execution and statewide governance structures to transform how we deliver football and ensure the game can handle its evolving needs well into the future,” he said via press release.

“Coupled with prudent financial management, these reforms continue placing significant downward pressure on football’s volatile and high inflationary cost environment to deliver stable registration benefits to participants across the state. 

“After another exciting 2024 season, we look forward to welcoming participants back next year and seeing even more Queenslanders join our game in 2025.”

The registration fees for FQ have been the lowest in the nation for 5 years with the federation not allowing price increases since 2020, including in 2022 where on average football prices saw a 30% increase nationwide.

With the recent cost of living crisis in Australia, the cost of sports has been a massive influence on players either starting or returning to play football in Australia.

FQ's massive increase in participants has made football the most-played team sport in Queensland, having the largest increase in players of all state federations last season. The continued low prices have been voiced as a key contributor to this success.

As a federation with a large contribution to Australian football in player numbers and successful professionals, its ability to keep prices low is a massive accomplishment.

Other state federations should look to FQ for inspiration in replicating their economic management if Australia wants to maintain participant numbers and ease the financial pressure to play football.

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Football Queensland recently released the central topics that will ‘Elevate the Debate’ of their inaugural Queensland Club Convention.

The convention will be held on Saturday, 2 November, and Sunday, 3 November 2024, at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.

This event will bring international speakers and panellists with industry expertise to give specialised sessions for Queensland’s clubs, coaches, teams, and associations.

Before the event on the 1st^, there will be a cocktail networking event at the Sunset Lounge at Suncorp Stadium for Brisbane Roar Men’s home opener against Sydney FC.

Furthermore, on the 2nd^, there will be a Queensland Awards Night at Brisbane City Hall.

These Focused sessions for participants will be based on the three broad themes of Growth, Sustainability and Technology.

GROWTH 

• It’s Already Coming – The Next Phase – 50/50 – Football’s Growth Story

Unpacking the truth about the growth of the game – what is the role of clubs and how can they prepare for it

• Revenue Diversification – What Business are we in?

Case studies of clubs that have successfully diversified their income sources with an opportunity mindset

SUSTAINABILITY 

• Critical Transition of Club Culture through Phases of Growth & Time

An analysis of how static club culture can paralyse a club’s maturation and progress

• Dynamic Club Business Models

Breaking away from treading water, reducing reliance on volunteers & unlocking growth (case studies)

• Optimal Club Governance & Administrative Structures

What does best practice look like and how do we get there? (Case studies)

TECHNOLOGY 

• Digital Transformation in Sport Operations: Benefits of Deploying a Common Tech Stack

Reducing the volunteer burden – managing risk, data security, continuity of IP

• Achieving Alignment, Unlocking Value & Eliminating Key Person Risk

The benefits of a common CMS and fully integrated platform for all clubs

• Cyber Bullying – Protecting the Game, our Clubs and Participants

• Government Relations – #EQUALISER

In the coming weeks, details of the specialised speakers for each club, official and coaching session will be released.

This event will be a great opportunity for the state's clubs to network with some of the best in their respective field, as well as interested stakeholders and other FQ clubs.

It will also enhance the positive community-based focus that has been central to Football Queensland’s strategic plans for 2024-2026.

Tickets are selling out fast and with a limited supply, this event for the interested is not one to miss out on.

To purchase tickets to the Club Convention, click here.

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Football Queensland has released its new 2024-2026 infrastructure strategy outlining centrally that collaboration with the government will be necessary for infrastructure investment over the next three years.

FQ and Football Australia did quantitative research on community club infrastructure and found the need for millions of dollars worth of infrastructure to support this growth and maintain numbers.

The first point of call is “Unlocking the Legacy of the FWWC23."

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci expressed his delight on releasing the Infrastructure Strategy.

“We are delighted to release the 2024-2026 Infrastructure Strategy which builds on our previous 2020 – 2024 Infrastructure Strategy and details our roadmap to securing the vital investment required in our greenspace to build capacity as we work towards achieving our goal of 50/50 gender parity by 2027," he said via press release.

“Football, as Queensland’s leading team participation sport, continues to grow annually at a double-digit rate, with a staggering 44% surge in female participation (and 29% overall growth) in outdoor players alone in the first quarter of 2024 following the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.”

FQ has recorded 300,000 participants with an impressive 65% growth in the last 4 years.

In conjunction with this data, there was a +470% increase in talent pathway athletes and a +330% increase in female participation since 2016.

Also on the national teams, the FQ has a massive role with 50% of the 23FWWC Matildas and Olympic football teams coming through FQ pathways.

Despite these remarkable statistics, looking at it from an infrastructure perspective Robert Cavallucci continues on by saying that football has reached a crisis situation.

“From an infrastructure perspective, based on its continued growth, the game has reached a critical crossroads due to historical underinvestment.”

This struggling infrastructure leads to Challenges such as:

• Physical and Mental Health Challenges including youth crime.
• Economic Challenges
• Reduced Physical Activity
• Environmental Impact
• Lack of Opportunities

The study behind this strategy is based on the National Football Facilities Audit Tool.

Provided by the partnership of FQ with Football Australia and another 8 member federations.

It has over 13.5 million data points, providing crucial business intelligence and pinpointing infrastructure gaps for clubs to work on FQ with Football Australia and another 8 member federations introduced the sport’s inaugural.

This data will help FQ in increasing its workforce capabilities with a precise mobilisation of its participation base.

This will be upheld by key campaigns on targeted events and participation, including advocacy within the community to engage with the government and support further education of participants to upgrade the development and quality of personnel.

The Strategy has been broken up into 3 priorities:

Priority 1: State Home of Community Football Pathways

FQ aims to establish a consolidated State Home of Community Football at Meakin Park.

It will significantly contribute to local economic growth and enhance physical and mental well-being through improved facility access, events at various levels (local, state, and national), and community activations.

The benefits:

• Local economic activity.
• Supports local sports clubs.
• Multi-purpose indoor facility access.
• Community Access.
• International level training facility.
• Economic activity through events.

As of December 2023, the estimated cost of this project is $70 million.

Priority 2: Community Football Infrastructure Fund

FQ with the Queensland state government will have a funding model in partnership that would see $20 million per annum invested over an initial three-year period in capacity and capability improvement projects.

Will also advocate for state funding grants for community football, planning for 20 facility improvements annually.

There is a need for large-scale facilities for the lower leagues and training of youth as well as high-performance training facilities in the state.

The benefits:

• Improved club capacity and capability.
• Targeted investment (need as opposed to want).
• Promotes football & Government, co-contribution model.

 Priority 3: Tier 2 Stadium Fit-For-Purpose Stadia

The proposed new 15,000-20,000 seat stadium would be an international state-of-the-art venue tailored for football and a range of events from conferences to concerts.

This would support the commercial viability of the sport, especially the female game and the hosting of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

The Benefits:

• Fit-for-purpose football stadia.
• Supports professional sports’ economic viability.
• Promotes Brisbane as a global sports capital.

The estimated cost from December 2023 is 200 million.

The strategy is based on hard evidence, community data and a thorough plan to develop the lacking areas of the game. It does highlight the need for the support of the government, otherwise, the strategy has the potential to struggle.

Overall, however, the outlined process looks promising and with the future AFC2026 and Olympics 2032 competitions, it is an area the government needs to support, and this strategy proves Football Queensland have the dedication and preparation to see it through.

To read through the full 2024-26 Infrastructure Strategy, click here.

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Football Queensland is introducing four nationally recognised hosts for the inaugural Queensland Football Convention, led by top football journalist Vince Rugari, with co-hosts Daniel Garb, Heather Garriock, and Amy Chapman.

The statewide convention, themed ‘Elevate the Debate,’ will bring together clubs, coaches, referees, and football enthusiasts from across Queensland to discuss key issues shaping the future of the sport on Saturday, 2 November, and Sunday, 3 November 2024, at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Vince Rugari, the author of Angeball: The Definitive Biography of Ange Postecoglou, is celebrated for his detailed coverage of major events like the FIFA World Cups, Asian Cups, and A-League Grand Finals. His insightful reporting has been featured in prominent outlets such as The Guardian, Australian Associated Press, Stan Sport, and The Sydney Morning Herald.

Daniel Garb, a seasoned football presenter and reporter with over 20 years of experience covering national teams, domestic leagues, and international matches in Australia, will join Vince at the inaugural convention.

Heather Garriock, a revered Matilda and member of the Football Australia Hall of Fame, brings over 25 years of experience, including playing in three FIFA Women’s World Cups and two Olympic Games. She currently serves as a Football Australia Board Member and Vice President of Football Coaches Australia.

Amy Chapman, a former Matilda and Westfield W-League player, is recognised for her extensive commentary and analysis with Optus Sport, FIFA, Channel 10, and Channel 7. She has also made significant contributions to football by negotiating the W-League Collective Bargaining Agreement and leading player support initiatives.

“We are excited to welcome Vince as our host, and Daniel, Heather and Amy as co-hosts of the inaugural Queensland Football Convention and are confident that their expertise and unique perspectives will be crucial as we address key themes including Growth, Sustainability, and Technology within the game,” Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said via press release.

“Their diverse backgrounds and experiences in the sporting world will help guide discussions as we strive to harness the excitement and growth surrounding the game in recent years and use that momentum to build a promising future for football both within the state and across the country.

“The two-day convention will serve as a crucial forum for innovative dialogue and collaborative exploration, offering attendees the chance to engage in transformative discussions, discover innovative solutions, and partake in interactive and insightful sessions.

“With a comprehensive agenda that includes exploring governance and administration structures, sustainable club models, and the role of technology in football, the Queensland Football Convention promises to be an essential event for anyone eager to be at the forefront of our game’s evolution.”

Alongside two days of convention sessions, the Queensland Football Convention will feature a cocktail networking event at the Brisbane Roar Men’s home opener at Suncorp Stadium and the football in Queensland Awards Night at Brisbane City Hall.

Click here to get additional information on the Queensland Football Convention.

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Football Queensland have revealed the results of the Equaliser survey, with 6,000 responses from 92 of Queensland’s 93 electorates.

#EQUALISER was first conducted in May 2024, to prepare for the upcoming Queensland State Election on October 26, 2024. Distributed to 250,000 participants in total, the survey focussed on what the general football public would like to see when it comes to funding and investment for the game, particularly within infrastructure.

With a wide variety of region-based responses, #EQUALISER has shown strong results to influence change within government and highlight the impacts that extend further from the game itself.

The survey results have revealed the following:

• 74% of respondents believe that football is not receiving its fair share of government funding compared to other sports.
• 76% of respondents believe that political investments in their local football club would be likely or very likely to influence their voting decisions in the upcoming state election.
• 90% of respondents identify access to sporting facilities – particularly in the evenings – as a key contributor to reducing youth crime.
• Over 69% of the Queensland football community view investment in community sports infrastructure as the highest priority for bringing the community together.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci is a big advocate for addressing the above problem areas, putting an emphasis on improving health and wellbeing outcomes for the state.

“These survey results clearly demonstrate that investment in football facilities to enhance the capacity and capability of our clubs across the state aligns closely with public sentiment and has significant potential to translate into greater political support as our football community votes with their feet ahead of the October state election,” he said via media release.

“In line with the sentiment of the Queensland football community and acknowledging the gaps in the state’s community football infrastructure ecosystem, we urge all elected representatives and candidates to answer the call of their communities ahead of the October state election and prioritise infrastructure investments that will ultimately benefit the game, our participants and the wider community.”

For more information on #EQUALISER, you can find it here.

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The Mt Isa Football Park has seen a huge upgrade to the facility with the installation of new goals as part of a partnership between PILA and Football Queensland.

PILA is a family-owned business that has grown into one of Australia's largest companies specialising in sports equipment and streetscape solutions, with a focus on flagpoles and goal posts.

The Australian manufacturing business has provided goal posts to Australia's major stadiums such as the MCG, the SCG and The Home of the Matildas.

PILA is also the official Goal Post Partner of the AFL and many football associations around Australia.

Confirmed back in March, PILA teamed up with Football Queensland to be its Official Goal Posts Partner and preferred supplier for clubs and communities in the Queensland region.

Football Queensland General Manager - Northern Region, Craig Ramage, said about the new and improved goal posts at Mt Isa Football Park:

“These new PILA goals will bring numerous benefits to the game and the region, including improved safety, enhanced playability and aesthetics to better accommodate the continued increases in participation seen across all age groups,” he said in a media release on Football Queensland's website.

“The need for an upgrade was clear, as the previous goals had served the community well but were showing significant signs of wear and tear.

"The installation of these new PILA goals represents a significant leap forward in field hardware quality and design and will help take the game to the next level for all participants at the Mt Isa Football Park," he said.

“This investment is a testament to the growing popularity of football in the region and demonstrates both Football Queensland and PILA’s commitment to providing top-notch facilities for players of all ages and skill levels across Mt Isa and Queensland.” 

PILA and Football Queensland also launched the PILA Goal Post Subsidy Program between May 1 to June 30 2024, where all clubs across Queensland can access discounted pricing and exclusive grants to help upgrade their goal posts.

Successful applicants of the program were announced in July 2024 and will receive a $500 subsidy towards new PILA goal posts for their respective clubs.

For more information about PILA and their goal posts, visit their catalogue here.

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The Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre has been approved for construction in the suburb of Petrie, about 30km north of the Brisbane CBD, with new project rendered images of the building being released as well.

The goal for the state government is to build a mega indoor sporting precinct in preparation for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, with indoor Olympic sports like boxing, badminton and volleyball being the main attractions.

The centre located at the Mill Precinct in Petrie will have 12 multi-use courts that can be used for a range of sports including basketball, netball, futsal, badminton, gymnastics and many more.

According to the state government's website, the centre will cost an estimated $205.5 million, to be split by the state and federal governments.

About 10,000 spectators will be able to watch events across 12 courts, spread across two sections of the building.

Importantly for business, the venue’s project validation report estimates that 178 full-time equivalent jobs would be directly supported by the facility’s construction. It’s a construction that will benefit the community as well as the struggling sports that will be able to use this top facility.

The procurement stage will now begin, with construction expected to take place from 2026 to 2028.

Mayor of the City of Moreton Bay, Peter Flannery spoke on the impact this new hybrid indoor sports centre will have on the local community.

"With almost 700,000 people living within 30 minutes of the centre, it will also have the potential to also support community events like concerts, festivals, art performances, school activities and more,” Mayor Peter Flannery said in a press conference.

“The Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre will provide long-lasting benefits to our city and create a legacy that all residents can be proud of for decades to come.”

For futsal this will be a very nice new location that can hold Queensland's biggest tournaments and present as a place to further grow futsal participation, which is one of FQ's main goals in their 2023-2026 Strategic Plan.

It's another big investment that doesn't directly affect football but will surely be of use as futsal continues to grow up to 30% in participation over the past 12 months.

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Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci is steadfast in capitalising on the World Cup hype, as lofty goals are at the heart of his success metrics within the member federation.

His ambition of football becoming the number one sport of choice in Queensland is backed by strategic objectives that focus on all facets of the game, all released within the last few months.

In a wide-ranging chat with Soccerscene, Cavallucci discusses the 2024-2026 Game Development Strategy, 2024-2026 Referee Strategy, 2023-2026 One Football Strategic Plan and his perspective on the National Second Tier situation in Queensland.

[caption id="attachment_25557" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] The Matildas celebrate Cortnee Vine's decisive penalty.[/caption]

How was the 2024-2026 Game Development Strategy developed with forming objectives? 

Robert Cavallucci: Our strategic plan mirrors Football Australia’s, but translates directly into a Queensland context; the KPIs, planning structure, priorities and pillars are the same, but we break it down into what the Queensland contribution to the national objectives are.

My role as CEO is to operationalise that plan. If you look at it and see a whole bunch of things in here – such as gender parity, referees, fans, coaches and pathways that should be in a plan – my job is to see what tasks are needed and what organisational design is required to deliver these objectives.

We’ve constructed 11 operational plans which includes the game development plan, futsal, referees, coach education, women & girls, elite pathway government relations and stadium strategy.

Within each of those 11 plans, it’s got all that we need to do over the next four years across each of the 10 regions of Queensland to realise these goals.

How we do it is working with our game development team, GMs and stakeholders across the state.

All KPIs are broken down across each of the 10 regions - each of our region managers understand what to do for their area: including Far North, Wide Bay, South Coast or Darling Downs.

Knowing what we’re meant to do in a region means that it can translate to successful outcomes which delivered over the last four years. Without those frameworks in place, you really are just a rudderless ship and you're very unlikely to achieve anything.

We've got a good framework behind us with our budgets around it and therefore across all those strategic objectives, we're absolutely making material differences which is good.

When you're out there working with stakeholders such as schools, community groups, or clubs to drive interest in the game, we must translate that in through several different channels and mechanisms.

We then translate that into decisions to move them into clubs within their community and then we can bring them through the different programs at a club level – which includes social engagement, social interaction and social participation.

Whether it's multicultural, women & girls, school or indoor, there's dozens of different programs that we have that make it possible – and we've expanded that even more with the Brisbane Roar in new community programs that we're doing under their brand.

[caption id="attachment_25553" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] The Game Development Strategy is across 10 regions of Queensland.[/caption]

How is the general interest in the game across the regions?

Robert Cavallucci: I don't think I’ve ever seen it as extensive as it is now in Queensland, the interest is off the charts.

It's easy to have interest but you must have the programs to match that interest. Events will come and go such as World Cups, but if you don't have the mechanisms in place to keep that interest thriving and to transition it into active participation, then the interest is not relevant and it's wasted.

One of the primary jobs of a member federation is to do that, it's one of our key obligations to generate interest and bring active participation.

[caption id="attachment_25550" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] World Cup tournaments have been a key driver for participation rates.[/caption]

The 2024-2026 Referee Strategy has been created, what are some of the differences to support officials?

Robert Cavallucci: The Referee Strategy is one of the most important ones, but one of the more complex as well.

You can put on a thousand courses, and you can drive interest, but there's so many other factors outside of our control that severely impact referee numbers.

We have broader issues in our society that has nothing to do with football, but relates with interpersonal relationships - how do people treat and talk to each other?

What's acceptable in levels of aggression or abuse? There is none, but people might have differing opinions about what that is. What are the factors that people believe that, in a sporting context, they’re allowed to drop societal rules from general discourse with someone and abuse someone in the middle of the field?

To support referees, we have the three strikes policy and it’s probably the hardest in Australia, but they're built on collective responsibility. Everyone at a club is responsible for the actions of every participant and player at the club.

You can't just disassociate yourself and go, he or she is a bad egg, everyone else is fine. No, if you see abuse, you are obligated to say that behaviour is not welcome here.

Until we have collective responsibility over these issues where they are some positive outcomes, I don't think we're going to be able to reset the behavioural norms at a football field.

That’s what it will take to see a meaningful change in the number and quality of referees.

If the churn rate is so high, how do you have someone in a system developing for 3, 5 or 10 years when they're barely lasting just a few years? It's a broader issue, but ultimately, we can only solve societal issues to a certain point within the context of a football club.

Social media is a significant issue and challenge for us. That's another mechanism by which people can aggregate in groups, large or otherwise, and disassociate themselves from societal norms, and treat people appallingly.

Who wants to be a referee when you see people behaving like that and criticising or diminishing referees in a cruel way, particularly under 18 referees? It’s just unacceptable.

We can have whatever strategies we like around referees and numbers, but they're always going to be constrained by our ability to address social issues.

The strategy itself was constructed with the same methodology as all the other 11, but it's what do we need to do within our control as a member federation to get more referees interested, support them and keep them in the game longer.

[caption id="attachment_25555" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Building and maintaining respect for officials is the number one priority for the Referee Strategy.[/caption]

You mention churn being a key issue, what measures have you implemented so far?

Robert Cavallucci: We're trialling video cameras on the chest with Football Australia, so it'll be interesting to see how that goes.

The intent for doing it is to develop better solutions to some of those issues in a game setting. It’s also to support transitioning to a single point of accountability in a team, such as a captain.

It’s done in other codes, and it always seems to work well. When it comes to officiating, there's some lessons to be learned.

Rugby Union has extraordinary levels of respect being commanded by referees. I don't think there's any code that does it as well as they do in terms of senior, national and international levels. It’s just incredible and that's where we want to get to as a sport.

All it takes is a small minority to ruin any progress we’ve made from an investment or participation point of view. Everyone, whether it be A-League or NPL level, needs to understand what good behaviour looks like.

Gender parity is the theme of the 2023-2026 One Football Strategic Plan, how is that tracking?

Robert Cavallucci: Gender parity is everyone getting involved; including referees, coaches, players, boards, club boards, club committees and FQ committees. It's parity across the board, so it's not exclusive to participation on the field.

We’ve seen some significant success in participation – we’re 44% higher this year in female growth.

We're well on track to hit gender parity in 2027-2028 and we’ve pushed that out slightly only because we've had a lot more growth in the boys than we thought we would. Whilst we hit our targets with the girls, we got more boys than we thought.

Ultimately that brings the curve back together slightly. It's making a lot of progress, as we're about 69% for boys now. Only a couple of years ago, we were at ratios of 80:20 and now it’s moved to 69:31.

We're pulling it back by 4-5 percent each year, so over the next three or four years we absolutely want to be as close to 50:50 as we can and that meets our participation targets as well; particularly in Queensland we'll be in a good spot as a as a code.

We'll not only be the largest male code, but the largest women's sporting code in Queensland. We're not far off it now and in turn netball but we're hunting them down at a great rate of knots.

Our objective is ambitious, but we've absolutely been tracking there the last three years at incredible speed so it's staggering what can be achieved when you do have extremely well thought out documented plans. It's been very carefully constructed over the last three or four years and it presents one of our greatest challenges which is infrastructure, but at the same time it's a challenge that we want and we are solving with government - that was a challenge of our own doing as a sport.

For 20 previous years we did a poor job of working with government of all persuasions and didn’t articulate the needs of football. We never had the confidence to tell the football story in Queensland or Australia for that matter and we always pushed ourselves down the ranks, and I don't know why. Maybe because we were embarrassed about the disarray of the governance that the game was in, or the administration, and didn’t think we had the right to stand up and be counted in years gone by.

We are a massive global sport and the biggest in Queensland & Australia. We're the fastest growing and have global events such as World Cups and Olympics. Which part of any of that story should we not be overwhelmingly proud and feel like we've got every right to take our place as the most dominant code in Australia?

It's just unbelievable that we haven't had the leaders who felt that way and absolutely by design say football's not ready to do that yet.

If you don't tell people who you are, everyone else will say who you are and that's the football story over the last 20 years.

My aim is to reposition that which has occurred over the last three or four years, as we have an excellent relationship with government and communicate with them weekly; we've had some massive outcomes in a funding shift, but we've still got a long way to. From where we started, the difference is staggering.

[caption id="attachment_25554" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Gender parity targets are promoting the game in Queensland to be inclusive for all.[/caption]

What has been observed in participation rates post men's and women's World Cups?

Robert Cavallucci: The important thing to recognise is football doesn't want anything that it doesn't deserve based on its representation in the community. Any government funding, no matter what it is, should be based on community need.

If there's a community need from a football perspective, then that needs to be addressed; it’s not like we want something that is over and above, it's just meeting some minimum basic standards of what the community needs to be active and healthy.

What I think often gets lost is the way that some within the game put that argument forward that they give the impression that they're entitled to things over and above what other sports have been getting.

Other sports have just done a better job historically at demonstrating their needs, whereas we've done a bad job and we're not patient enough to know the turnaround will take time and no one wants to wait.

As a sport, we shouldn’t be asking for the world, but there is a need and its data-driven need for the community. Other sports have gotten away with socialising their costs and privatising their profits for the last 20 years, which has allowed them to be in a very strong position of their professional game, and that has never been afforded to football.

I see the football community being annoyed that other massive codes with billion-dollar incomes have had the bulk of their cost base for infrastructure paid by the public taxpayer, which has allowed them to be in a position of strength at a professional level.

No one plays those sports at a community level, but at a professional level where it's privately owned, they've done a very good job of socialising their costs. And that provides a huge advantage at that level of the game that we see the A-League suffering the consequences from because of the absence of relevant infrastructure.

It's going to be a very volatile next 10 years as we work through that. I'm not saying that football should be funded by the taxpayer at all, but there's got to be a better share of reasonable outcomes from governments of all persuasions at all levels.

[caption id="attachment_25552" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Infrastructure is one of the key challenges that Football Queensland are addressing.[/caption]

Tell us about the Equaliser campaign and what you’ve seen to date?

Robert Cavallucci: The #EQUALISER State Election campaign is an initiative driven by the need of our Queensland football community. Data gathered by Football Queensland shows that 71% of greenspaces and football fields across the state suffer from inadequate drainage and only 42% of fields with lighting meet minimum playing and safety standards. These statistics highlight just a few key areas of infrastructure that have suffered from lack of investment and are now holding football in Queensland back from thriving.

With the state election approaching in October, the timing of the #EQUALISER initiative couldn't be more crucial. We’ve gathered survey responses from more than 6,000 members of the Queensland football community and over 76% of respondents indicated that their voting preferences could be swayed by political candidates' commitments to investing in football clubs.

It is with this information that FQ is driving the #EQUALISER campaign, engaging in conversations with government officials to advocate for greater investment that will ensure safe and accessible green spaces for the more than 300,000 football participants across the state, both now and into the future.

[caption id="attachment_25551" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] The Equaliser campaign is designed to collate the needs and requirements of the football community.[/caption]

You’ve been working closely with Brisbane Roar; do they relay some of their challenges?

Robert Cavallucci: We’ve got a great working relationship now with the Roar and it's how it should be. About 10-15 years ago it was there but not really and then it just descended quite badly in recent years. Since I've been at Football Queensland and since Kaz Patafta and Zac Anderson have been at the Roar, we're all had a similar mindset about uniting the game and coming up with the best way of making that happen. That means not everyone has to do everything and we'd look at each other's strengths and what we're investing in.

We address what we want out of it and figure out strategies. For example, supporting academies which makes sense for Football Queensland to do.

Instead of the Roar having to deliver something not as optimally as they should, we can do it because we're already doing it 10 times bigger.

Together, it means integrated staff, integrated systems and good technical outcomes. We've already got 11 offices across the state, 100 casual staff and thousands of programs. The Roar trying to do similar is disjointed and doesn't deliver outcomes for them or us. It's getting together and saying, how can we do this better together?

We just want to make things simple and streamline it, so the Roar get the outcomes they want – such as more kids at games, more memberships, and greater interest in the A-League.

Those things are all essentially what we want and it's what the Roar wants as well. If there’s good governance and oversight, the game wins.

Ultimately that's a best practice scenario with how we should be looking at this right across the country to change the delivery model of many parts of the game.

[caption id="attachment_25556" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] The 'FQ & Roar Football in the Community’ program was introduced this year.[/caption]

Can you shed some light on the National Second Tier (NST) situation in Queensland?

Rob Cavallucci: I love how people view Football Queensland negatively because clubs in Queensland have common sense; there seems to be this rationale that if a club chooses not to participate in the NST, then there must be something wrong with Football Queensland.

The logic escapes me, it's an egotistical perspective; surely your ego as a club is so extravagant that you can't help but want to be in the NST competition.

There are massive clubs such as the Queensland Lions that say they are not interested.

The reality of the decision-making process for Queensland clubs is how they view success – do they want to sacrifice 100+ teams for one men’s team?

It's a simple, rational decision made by logical people that whilst in principle they would they think it’s great to have a NST and compete at a higher level, the reality is none of them are willing to sacrifice 100 teams and their success just on the basis of one.

There are 10 possible models and there's two or three logical models that could be used to start the league with different permutations from there.

I don't think that the clubs have an interest in the current design based on the risk and the barriers to entry and that's a risk that none of them can process in a way that doesn't expose the club to any form of harm or detriment whether it be financial or otherwise.

Had it been another model or format, then it's quite likely that they would participate for sure. It might appeal to Victorian or New South Wales clubs, but it certainly doesn't appeal to the broader Queensland environment.

You can't understate the experience of the Queensland clubs; we've been doing planes and travel weekly for NPL and otherwise for nearly 10 years.

They know what it's like and they're doing it now. We've got flights every weekend, with clubs going all over the state for Champions League, the Kappa Pro Series, and the Queensland Cup. They're doing that and have done so for a decade.

Therefore, it's not a foreign concept to them and they know what the travel’s like. It’s not the same as Sydney or Melbourne where everyone's within a few kilometres or an hour's travel time.

It’s a conscious decision from Queensland clubs who would rather not, and we shouldn’t be throwing criticism at them, but rather accept the fact that not all clubs want to take this kind of risk.

They aren’t ruling out ever being part of the NST, but when the time is right; Presidents and GMs absolutely love the concept.

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Football Queensland confirmed a two-year extension of its deal with Felton Industries to help provide safe and high-quality infrastructure for local clubs in the state.

Felton Industries have been with FQ since the start of 2021 with the goal to improve the infrastructure around Queensland’s local clubs.

That same goal will continue to be shared and a second extension affirms both parties’ commitment to bettering facilities in Queensland.

They were involved in the 2020-2022 Strategic Plan where FQ identified that they needed to secure a partner that would help deliver on it's infrastructure needs.

Felton Industries is Australia’s leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of Australian made premium aluminium outdoor furniture for schools, parks, councils, clubs and organisations.

The company helped FQ launch their Shelter & Grandstands Facility Guide at the start of 2021 to help easily facilitate a very ambitious plan that turned out to be a success.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci expressed delight at the extension that affirms their commitment to grassroots football.

“Football Queensland has built a very strong relationship with Felton over the past three years, and we are excited to extend our partnership as they continue to offer top-quality shade, bench, and grandstand seating solutions that cater to all clubs and budgets,” Cavallucci said.

“As we work towards achieving the goals outlined in the 2023–2026 Strategic Plan, a key priority remains removing barriers to participation and ensuring that clubs and participants statewide have access to high-quality infrastructure to help meet demand and build capacity.

“The extension of FQ’s partnership with Felton presents an exciting opportunity as we continue our efforts to support more infrastructure projects and initiatives under the Clubs and Participation pillar of our Strategic Plan to ensure that our game remains the game for all, for life.

“We look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts with Felton Industries to elevate the football experience across Queensland.”

Felton Industries Marketing Manager Drew Mackinnon expressed delight at the two companies collaborating further.

“We are delighted to extend our partnership with Football Queensland,” Mackinnon said in a statement

“We are proud of our work with grassroots and not-for-profit organisations, and together with Football Queensland, this partnership allows us to continue to bring durable, safe and quality grandstand and shelter solutions to the Sunshine State’s incredible footballing community.

“Our range of products enhance and expand clubs’ spectator seating options, providing a safe environment for the family, die-hard supporters and the casually interested to each fall in love with the beautiful game.”

Both parties have done a tremendous job to help guide clubs into improving infrastructure around the state. The two-year extension, which now leans into the current 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, is a great sign of success and a drive to achieve the same goal.

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Following the recent surges nationwide in female participation, Football Queensland (FQ) has also proven they are making important strides in their 50/50 gender parity plan, with FQ appointing women to higher positions in the sports hierarchy.

Throughout the state, FQ is committed to achieving 50/50 gender parity in participants, referees, committees and club officials by 2027.

FQ has announced that of 10 FQ members, five have been women, hitting an impressive 50/50 representation.

These representatives are chosen from their local communities, proving that the push for change in equity comes from the members of the community.

These members include Sarah Jones (Far North & Gulf), Roslyn Minnikin (Metro South Chair), Azra Rantucci (Northern), Jodie Dickens (South Coast) and Rebecca Whisker (Sunshine Coast).

In conjunction with these appointments, Football Queensland also announced the re-election of Board Director Amy Chapman following the recent Annual General Meeting as the FQ Board of Directors.

FQ President Paula Robinson commented:

“Following a huge 2023 that saw the game reach new audiences and engagement levels like never before and after FQ recorded an incredible 44% increase in outdoor female players in the first quarter of 2024, we are excited to further consolidate the growth of female representation on the pitch with similar progress off the pitch in vital governance roles,” she said.

These appointments are a key part of the Football Queensland 2024-2026 Women’s & Girls Strategy and show the effort made to deliver on this mission.

In Pillar One: Participants & Clubs: A main goal is for 100% of Queensland club boards, committees and FQ members to meet the 40/40/20 gender representation by 2027.

These appointments prove that FQ is well on the way to this goal not just in leadership but also state-wide through all the different footballing communities.

FQ President Paula Robinson also commented, “Having such a diverse group of esteemed members within football’s governance ranks helping to design an inclusive future for the game in Queensland will ensure that more participants, particularly women and girls, can get involved in the game earlier and remain engaged for life.”

Retaining participants and early involvement in the game is another goal within Pillar One of the 2024-2026 Strategy.

Also in Pillar 2: Advanced Pathways one of the strategies includes:

Increase the awareness of the 50/50 gender parity initiative through storytelling and regular representation of achievements in all our published collateral and marketing promotions.

This news post is a prime example of the media and storytelling strategies towards the equity goal of 2027.

The announcement shows dedication to the ambitious plans of Football Queensland for the Women’s 2024-2026 strategy.

In this process, FQ will be making the football scene a more accurate industry of Australian's diverse sporting community.

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Football Queensland have officially released their vision for a dedicated stadium in Brisbane to be built at the sport's spiritual home in Bowen Hills, according to Brisbane Times' Cameron Atfield.

According to FQ's plans, Perry Park would get its long awaited upgrade becoming a top rectangular stadium with the developments helping increase the capacity between 15,000 and 20,000.

Funding has not yet been secured and the estimated cost of the project will be "up to $200 million."

The stadium plans to host teams from all levels such as the Brisbane Roar's men's and women's teams, as well as community clubs in preparation for Queensland's inevitable involvement in the National Second Tier. FQ suggested it can be multi-use so lower-drawing professional teams like cricket's Brisbane Strikers and rugby's Queensland Reds can use the facility.

On 'The Subs Bench' podcast months ago, Cavallucci spoke in length about the importance of using the historic Perry Park as their next big infrastructure project to enhance the 'Home of Brisbane football.'

He stated that this upgrade was necessary for the sport to advance in the state and shed light on how it would affect all tiers of the football pyramid.

Cavallucci explained the importance of this stadium's upgrade for the potential National Second Tier and expansion teams, with a second Brisbane professional team helping football boom in the state.

The plan to upgrade this stadium, whilst centred around football, also benefits the city and its other sports.

Perry Park's location in the inner city makes it easy to commute to with the train station nearby as well as it being on major road infrastructure. It has all the suitable elements of a top stadium and intertwines with Brisbane's sporting spine (Suncorp and Gabba).

Cavallucci also mentioned that a potential second Brisbane A-League team, in the event of an expansion past Auckland and Canberra, is only possible with the appropriate infrastructure and that this stadium upgrade will "mobilise a broader fanbase."

In the wake of the Olympics in 2032, the government will be considering investing in upgrading their current facilities to accommodate the games, but more focus is on FQ's rampant push to proactively prepare for the NST and a potential A-League expansion.

This news is really exciting for the state and will be vital for their involvement in the future of Australian football, with the city of Brisbane in particular dying for an elite football home.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have confirmed eight additional futsal clubs who have been granted participation licenses for the upcoming 2024 FQ Futsal League (FL) competition. 

The clubs will feature in the leagues fourth edition of the states highest tier of futsal spanning across respective women’s and men’s leagues.

A conference-based competition format will conclude in January 9th 2025 edition of the National Futsal Club Championships.

Football Queensland Manager of Futsal Vince Sciacca touched upon the competitions expansion, and the ripple effect it can have upon futsal within Queensland.

“Following the success of the competition in 2023, it was fantastic to receive F-League licence applications from 12 futsal clubs for the 2024 season, with the quality of applications demonstrating the strength of the Football Queensland Futsal Premier League and the appetite for high level competitive futsal in our state,” he said via press release.

“We can today announce that eight clubs have been awarded F-League licences for 2024 ahead of the planned expansion of the league to 10 clubs in 2026, and we are thrilled to see the high calibre of clubs who will participate in the league this season.

“Football Queensland is focused on the ongoing growth and development of futsal leagues across the state as we develop a strong pathway to the top tier of competition in Queensland through the connected futsal pyramid, and we look forward to continuing to work with our affiliated clubs to support them in delivering high-quality playing opportunities at every level of the game.”

Futsal within Australia is on the cusp of becoming a sport accustomed to mainstream recognition, the quick pace and high volume of scoring makes the product rather appealing to audiences. 

Although well-appreciated by participants and officials, the sport remains untapped in broader audiences finding appreciation for the sport and its unique athletes. 

The expansion of futsal within the state of Queensland, and betterment of the existing national championship competitions, there is an opportunity for the sport to grow on into the mainstream, enduring a newly founded plethora of participants and admirers. All becoming an audience in which provides the alternative variation of football a vested interest it is deserving of.  

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Football Queensland has released its ambitious new 2024-2026 Women & Girls Strategy, focusing on achieving the wider Football Australia (FA) objective of 50/50 gender parity in participants, referees, committees, and club officials by 2027.

To maintain and enhance the 44% increase in women's participation in the sport, Football Queensland has organised its program into 3 Strategic Pillars, presenting the certain initiatives they wish to undertake and key performance indicators (KPIs) they wish to achieve.

Pillar 1: Participation and Clubs

This Pillar is based on creating a culture of inclusivity and diversity in the sport for women to feel valued and empowered to play, coach, administer and referee football at every level.

Their plans include:

• Conducting a deep analysis of club data to identify key clubs and areas for women's participation and share their practices at a state level.
• Expand certain initiatives and develop partnerships that will enhance all facets of the women’s game. Including the Girls United program and higher education girl-tailored scholarships.
• Taking a stronger focus on women and girls refereeing with tailored training programs, recruitment campaigns and courses.
• Developing their promotional strategy and pathways to better represent and retain girls' and women's participation.

The targets include:

62,000 women and girl players, 1,800 female referees and 5,700 Girls United participants by 2026. Also, they want 100% of Queensland club boards, committees and FQ members meeting the 40/40/20 gender representation by 2027.

Pillar 2: Advanced Pathways is split into two sections.

Section 1: Player development

To work with shareholders to maintain their high standards of providing adequate high-performance facilities and developing educational and technology-backed programs with access to further the careers of the most talented athletes.

Their plan includes:

• To co-fund and enhance the FQ Academy QAS program with diversified Talent Identification (TID) and Long-Term Talent Development (LATD) goals and action plans. This includes upgrades to the Home of Football facility.
• To enhance pathways with strengthened rural and statewide FQ academy clubs with more events, interstate competitions and Queensland A league teams. Especially with single age groups in academy leagues.

The targets include:

The FQ Academy QAS program remains the leading talent development academy with state-of-the-art facilities hosting extensive high-level interstate-wide competitions. With state-wide gold rate academies, an athlete management program, and clear career paths to professional leagues from NPL, A-League to the Matildas.

Pillar 2 Section 2: Coaching Development

Creating more opportunities including female-only courses for technical experts, analysts, academy directors, development, and high-performance coaches.

Developing female-only advanced courses such as a Coach Education Tutors workforce to train CETs for C and B Diplomas and the first Technical Director course with scholarships and clear pathways to permanent full-time coaching, analysts and support staff programs through diversifying roles in FQ and clubs and a digital platform for enhanced education accessibility.

Also, a recognition system to increase female technical staff numbers and increase storytelling awareness and representation of achievements in promotions.

The targets include:

9,400 female coaches with 25 Advanced Female Technical Directors with advanced scholarships and female coaches in full-time roles within the clubs, member federations, and 20% Queensland player and coach representation national team programs.

Pillar 3: Infrastructure

To break down the lack of facilities for the women's game with Queensland Infrastructure Strategy by providing appropriate facilities for players to have the resources to play and represent the state at the very highest level.

This includes working closely with the Queensland Government to get infrastructure investment for the next 3 to help provide more unisex change rooms and female-friendly facilities. While upgrading fields, clubhouse and spectator seating across strategic spots over the state.

Key endeavours include a combined Home of Women’s Football and Women’s Centre of Excellence and securing a second Regional High-Performance Centre in Central Queensland.

The KPI is to attain the Queensland Government's $60m infrastructure investment over the next three years and Queensland’s Home of Football as a high-performance facility.

This announcement of the Strategy plan presents a convincing and well-planned out mission by FQ to enhance the growing women's and girls' game in the state and be on track to delivering the Football Australia 50/50 equality strategy.

You can read the 2024-2026 Women & Girls Strategy in full here.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have released their 2023 Annual Report which suggests state-wide growth in all areas and shows the strides it has made in its long-term strategic development across the state.

Football Queensland had a plan in 2020 to stabilise and grow its financial performances across the short-term future and were able to do that to full effect in 2023.

FQ delivered a record total revenue of $20,016,537 ($8.8m in 2020), and net assets of $5.3m, with a cumulative surplus of $2.5m.

In recent years, FQ has actively sought to diversify the organisation’s revenue streams by targeting growth in commercial income which this year saw an impressive 267% increase.

This placed downward pressure on registration fees which were reduced by nearly 30% in 2022.

As expected, a major influence in the increase of participation was the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup that inspired many around the country.

Football Queensland reported an 11.1% increase in state-wide participation post-FWWC23.

Football in Queensland is thriving, with 308 clubs and more than 300,000 players in 2023, the game stands as the state’s largest team and club-based participation sport, delivering significant social and community benefits both on and off the field.

For the first time ever, the Grand Finals of NPL Queensland and FQPL 1 Men and Women competitions were played at Suncorp Stadium which provided a platform to showcase Queensland’s top footballers on the prestigious stage.

As a result of this historic season, the digital broadcast reach and live stream viewership also experienced significant growth in 2023, particularly for the women’s competitions which recorded a viewership increase of 231.34%.

FQ have an ongoing commitment to promote women and girls in football, with dedicated programs and activations in place to reach their 50/50 gender parity goal by 2027.

In 2023, women & girls participation grew 8% on 2022 with a total of 31,239 outdoor club-based female players involved.

MiniRoos Club Girls growth was 5% with over 43,000 participants in 2023 providing an insight into how bright the future is in the state for women's football.

There was a 28% increase in female coaches in 2023 across all different levels with development a key target for FQ.

Futsal participation had a 28% increase as well with FQ cracking over 10,000 participants for the first time.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci explained the encouraging numbers from the report and spoke on the future vision of FQ.

“2023 was another huge year for football in Queensland, as we worked to continue the momentum and success of the initiatives outlined in FQ’s 2023-2026 One Football Strategic plan which delivered a clear and comprehensive framework to foster growth of the game,” he said in a statement.

“Football Queensland has outlined our bold target of 50/50 gender parity in participation by 2027 and already in the first quarter of 2024 we have seen a remarkable 44% growth in outdoor female players.

“While we can attribute some of this success to the amplification effect of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, FQ’s strategic commitment and deployment of initiatives and programs in the lead up and post the event have played a crucial role in capturing and funnelling this growth in demand for our game.

“As we continue to record strong growth across the state and strive to meet the demands of our current base, it is absolutely critical that we as a governing body continue to advocate strongly for infrastructure investment in our game at a local, state and federal level on behalf of our clubs and participants.

“FQ launched multiple brand-new tournaments in 2023 to continue to strengthen the connected football pyramid, linking FQPL football tiers and maximising competitive opportunities for players, including the Kappa Pro Series and the expanded Mitre FQPL Champions League.

“The new futsal pyramid announced in 2023 aims to unify the delivery of futsal products, including the launch of the new Queensland Futsal Cup which provides further pathways for Queensland players to strive for national success.

“FQ’s ongoing focus on coach and referee support and development led to six Queensland match officials being named in the inaugural intake of the Football Australia Referee Academy, as well as the delivery of 223 coaching courses to over 2,800 attendees.

“On behalf of Football Queensland, I’d like to acknowledge the support of our Football Queensland team, Football Australia, State and Local Governments and our official partners throughout 2023, who contributed to a year marked by many historic milestones for our game."

There are plenty of positives to come out of a year that has shaped the future of women's football and participation in Queensland.

Queensland showed its ability to host the Women's World Cup and will get a chance again in 2026 with the Women’s Asian Cup in a bid hopefully to again use the momentum to surge participation growth and their financial stability.

You can read the Annual Report in full here.

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Football in Queensland is on the cusp of becoming the state's most dominant sport.

Although rugby league maintains a firm grip upon the most consumed sport by the state’s residents, football remains the current most popular team sport in terms of participants.

While netball is currently the most participated female sport, football remains an ominous presence within the female sporting category with an abundance of potential to claim first upon the podium.

The newly founded state election campaign titled #EQUALISER is designated in ensuring optimal support is exercised for the existing and growing demand for football in the state by campaigning for further investment.

The initiative has come to fruition in order to allocate necessary funding towards football related infrastructure from government representatives, MP’s and electoral candidates across the plethora of Queensland political parties.

Robert Cavallucci indicated how far the game has come in the state via press release:

"The popularity of football has exploded with overall participation growing by 55% in the past five years. The game stands as the state’s largest team and club-based participation sport, delivering significant social and community benefits both on and off the field," he said. 

“Despite football’s size, reach and influence, the game is in dire need of additional infrastructure to meet its current obligations and to keep up with the continuous growth in demand across all regions and demographics.

“Data gathered from the #EQUALISER survey will enable FQ to engage with state decision-makers, MPs and candidates to reinforce the importance of football infrastructure funding commitments to not only their specific electorates and election outcomes, but also the broader Queensland community."

#EQUALISER was founded on the premise of football and the government within Queensland creating a fruitful, positive and sustainable relationship all for the advancement of the ever growing sport within the state.

Those involved within the football community throughout the state now have a voice, it now possess the power required for change, all through the installation of the #EQUALISER survey.

Members of the football community have been requested via the FQ website to participate in the state wide survey. All to provide their opinions, requirements and improvements they require within their footballing obligation.

Volunteers, players, club officials, referees, administrators and management staff who provide data on the survey will enable football to prosper further, aligning with the respective strategic plans undertaken by FQ all set to transpire by 2026.

Football in the sunshine state is relishing with 300,000 players as of 2023.

A tremendous 44% increase took place within female participants, all occurring by the first quarter of 2023 as stated via the FQ website.

Now is a better time than ever, especially with the Women’s Asian Cup on the horizon for governing bodies to collaborate for the improvement of infrastructure.

The survey’s findings if heard has the capacity to have quite the emphasis upon the growth of football within the state.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have announced a partnership with A-League staple Brisbane Roar as the member federation continues to build towards their 2026 strategic growth plan.

The two organisations have combined to launch a community incentive, titled ‘Football Queensland and Roar Football in the Community’.

As a result of the collaboration, it is an Australian first - as no club across the country has experienced a feat  which is being exhibited in Queensland between the Roar and governing body.

This gound-breaking alliance has effectively reinforced the established relationship between the state and one of the country’s most renowned football clubs, drawing emphasis upon the strategy of building upon the ongoing development and support of football within Queensland.

Football Queensland and Roar Football in the Community will deliver a vast variety of grassroots football clinics, sessions, events and community engagement programs to young aspiring boy and girl participants.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci disclosed his assertiveness in FQ hitting the 2026 strategy plan, with the newly found partnership a step in the right direction.

“Combining our strong ties to the grassroots football community with Brisbane Roar’s connection to football fans across the state ensures we can implement best practice delivery methods to unite the game in Queensland,” he said via media release.

Brisbane Roar FC Chairman & CEO Kaz Patafta discussed his admiration towards the expansion of the Club’s reach in the new state wide opportunity.

“We’re delighted to expand Brisbane Roar FC’s reach throughout the Queensland football community as we continue working collaboratively with Football Queensland to pave the way for innovative and strategic opportunities for the game,” he added via press release.

This community program intends on introducing young boys and girls to the sport of football, in attempts to increase participation numbers.

It is a strict objective in which FQ are adamant in achieving, all in accordance to their 2024-2026 Development Strategy.

Additionally, the programs created are crafted for children across the state of Queensland, with a database featured on the community program website, allowing parents to navigate the closest programs within their respective area of the state.

Schools are also invited to become involved - find out more about Football in the Community here: https://footballqueensland.com.au/football-in-the-community/

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Football Queensland (FQ) recently confirmed a duel radio partnership with Airwaves Sea FM and Mix FM, with both stations to provide support for events and tournaments in the state.

The collaboration was made official via the FQ website, both stations will simultaneously provide a media platform for important FQ tournaments and events.

Both media companies are situated across the Sunshine Coast, with the agreement between the pair and FQ to operate throughout the remainder of the calendar year.

90.9 Sea FM have remained a prominent commercial radio outlet throughout the Sunshine Coast since their first live air date, stemming all the way back in 1989.

Comprehensive throughout their distribution, the outlet are predominantly a music based radio station, targeting a broader audience demographic.

To showcase further involvement within the broader community, the original partnership between the radio station and FQ has proved the fruitful acquisition for both parties, this is the second year running the two entities have collaborated.

Falling under the same ownership umbrella with Sea FM, Mix FM have made head-waves throughout the airwaves across the sunshine coast as a commercial radio targeted towards an older age demographic.

As publicised upon the FQ website, CEO Robert Cavallucci discussed his appraisal for the continued partnership between Mix FM and Sea FM.

“Football Queensland is excited to again partner with Sea FM and Mix FM for our 2024 Sunshine Coast events and tournaments following a successful partnership in 2023. We look forward to bringing these events to the Sunshine Coast community with the support of the two local stations as we work together to provide high quality and exciting events for all participants.”

A magnitude of events are scheduled to be showcased upon both platforms throughout the duration of the 2024 football calendar year.

The FQ Academy Junior Cup, WinterFest24, FQ Premier League 3 Grand Finals and Pacific Championships are all upon the broadcasting wish list.

Both Radio outlets are to continue in within the rich vein of form they showcased throughout the 2023 football season.

Continuing on with their respective on-site activities while ensuring that engagement with the community remains at its optimal level.

There is a uniqueness surrounding what this partnership means to a broader community of people within the Sunshine Coast of Queensland.

The participants involved within the events will have a profound feeling of importance, noticing that the events they are participating are being featured on a live broadcast.

It also allows for aspiring broadcasters to have a genuine platform to kick-start their journalism careers upon.

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Social football throughout Australia has acted as the sports backbone, allowing participants of all skill levels to remain involved within the sport.

Regardless of time constraints, skill level or external obligations, social sport allows for the everyday Australia to dedicate one particular time slot of their week to playing some football, usually in a team consistent of their mates.

In north Queensland, Girls United Social League remains a polarizing staple amongst the region, courtesy of its relaxed environment.

The newly founded social league within its second year of operations has continued to retain and attract women of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels into participation.

FQ Officer of Women and Girls Participation, Leah Gubb disclosed upon the FQ website how Girls United continues to pave the way for Queensland increasing their female participants.

"We have new players, returning players, young and older players. It really is for anyone who wants to have a bit of fun, get a bit of fitness in by kicking a ball around with some friends in a social and relaxed space," she said via press release.

How Girls United has aligned with FQ’s objectives

FQ remained open-ended in relation to the state football objectives, achieving 50/50 gender parity by 2027 is amongst the grandest of the state’s ambitions.

Girls United allows for a unique football experience, over the 10 week intervals across four terms throughout the year, the event is accessible for every participant given it remains open to all ages and skill levels.

The format consists of six players in each team provides another pathway towards achieving the 50/50 parity by 2027 goal.

25% of participant involvement within the outdoor sector has stemmed from Girls United in the northern region of Queensland in 2024.

Why Girls United is so Popular?

Not only has Girls United allowed for an increase of female football participation within Queensland, but also the contribution it has made towards the lifestyle improvement of its participants acts as the primary reason of its popularity.

The ability to exercise, relieve stress and congregate with a relative contingent of people who share the admiration for the world game is fundamentally a gleaming reason behind Girls United and its early success. Given the contribution it has made towards the support and benefit of women’s mental health.

State football governing bodies across the country may opt to use FQ’s current Girls United Social League initiative as the framework of executing a similar football format throughout each respective part of the country.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have confirmed a partnership with SocialProtect to fight against online abuse and misconduct upon the football community within the state.

Attacks on players, referees and administrators are prominent across multiple football communities in which remains a negative connotation of such an amazing sport.

SocialProtect is a mobile application in which enables the real-time monitoring of online abuse without account users compromising account control.

Automated containment of abuse occurs when the technology interprets foul and derogatory language, preventing its account users from being aware of what might have been said by social media users.

The online protection device automatically deletes comments upon social media posts or pages in that contain hate speech, racial slurs, scams, and any form of content deemed harmful.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci disclosed his admiration surrounding the partnership

“Football Queensland is proud to partner with companies like SocialProtect, underscoring a shared commitment to prioritising the mental and physical well-being of participants by addressing and removing any instances of online abuse across social media platforms,” he said in a statement.

Having understood the effect the application has had upon the social media account operation of both professional sport teams within Australia and around the world, FQ where motivated to implement the technology upon their community.

“FQ’s zero-tolerance policy against poor behaviour, enhancing security to safeguard clubs, participants, and the public, thereby reducing mental impact and lowering self-harm risk.”

It was disclosed that clubs participating in the NPL Queensland Women’s and Men’s competitions are eligible to receive the service as its included within their license.

This enables the clubs to integrate SocialProtect into their club’s digital security for the foreseeable future.

Affiliated clubs across all parts of Queensland are able to access the service at varying stages across the season, with a monthly subscription fee incurred.

It is an unfortunate part of any sport across the globe. Anonymous online trolls have the platform to remain unidentified, and cause havoc across various social platforms.

The implementation of SocialProtect may be the fundamental tool necessary in the protection of athletes.

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Football Queensland (FQ) continue to create new partnerships that have the potential to strengthen their footballing power, collaborating with Green Room Futures (GRF) that was confirmed, who provide students to study and be involved in football in America.

Student athletes of a young age from Queensland are the demographic in whom will benefit from the newly found agreement.

Green Room Futures is an Australian-based company that connects players with over 5,500 colleges in all parts of America. Providing the chance for young players to pursue their desired degree abroad alongside the prospect of participating in sport throughout their studies by offering flexibility and support for both their academic and football aspirations.

The partnership will work as the gateway for aspiring international students who have the ability and desire to participate in football abroad with the prospect of playing college soccer on the horizon.

Attaining talented football prospects within Australia is a convoluted issue the raw talent exists. However, those prospects have a mountain of aspects they need to climb to be given half the opportunity at a professional level.

The costs involved in participating within the higher established state football competitions are unfeasible. With the economy restricting Australian’s, the average fees involved in football are certainly unattainable for a vast majority of participants.

Players can become deterred from participation given the extreme sacrifice and effort they may put in, but more often than not get nothing out of. Player management within a professional club can falter a player’s performance, who are not given the adequate chance to prove their worth.

The Green Room Futures deal with FQ can undeniably provide a new avenue for promising Australian footballers to explore.

Founder and Director at Green Room Futures, Matt Wade said via press release:

"This partnership will offer a diverse range of opportunities to students and players of all abilities, while also providing a lot of young adults with a life experience that is truly unforgettable!"

The opportunity of regular game-time abroad and the vast difference in population within America, allows for an abundance of opportunities to exist for the plethora of football athletes in whom wish to study abroad.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci discussed how beneficial the partnership can be for Queenslanders given they have the potential to enter the American collegiate system.

“New doors for them to experience the life of a student-athlete in America while pursuing an academic degree of their choosing and contribute to their personal and footballing growth."

The GRF partnership with FQ is something in which football Australia should keep an attentive eye upon given it has the potential to be the most promising avenue for the nation’s optimistic footballing talents to pursuit.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have remained busy on the tools in building the framework required to materialize their aspirations, all through the implementation of The 2024-2026 Game Development Strategy.

Acknowledging the popularity of the world's game within the state, CEO Robert Cavallucci disclosed that the development strategy plan is to make football “the game of choice” amongst Queenslanders.

In correlation with the strategic referee plan released earlier in the month, the Development Strategy plan highlights women’s football, 50/50 parity amongst male and female participants FQ wishes to achieve 128,000 registered football club participants.

The monumental hype that surrounded Australia’s maiden tenure as World Cup hosts has culminated in football governing bodies looking to transcend the sport within their respective states to unprecedented heights.

It is common knowledge that the success and appreciation for the Matilda’s throughout their 2023 Women’s World Cup campaign leaves in its wake a tangible interest within football amongst potential female participants.

FQ are also seeking to achieve 200,000 social participants, while vying to achieve further diversity amongst its existing participants.

But how are FQ going climb the steep mountain?

Pillar One: Recruitment and Opportunity

In order to have a significant percentage increase within the number of official and social participants across the board involves a proactive approach. The fundamental aspect of achieving parity between genders is to amplify the dedicated focus upon fostering inclusivity.

Through events crafted towards a vast variety of varying demographical and geographical communities, the programs created in order to showcase the sport of football, while attempting to attract new participants.

In order to break the barriers FQ will investigate and identify strategic growth areas by conducting a geographical and demographical review.

Upon this, the establishment and implementation of a strategy where football within schools becomes more inclusive will be exercised.

Pillar Two: Delivery and Experience

The pursuit of excellence spearheads the secondary pillar featured within the strategic plan. The experience of every participant is paramount.

Underscored by a pledge to deliver 10/10 experiences enabling its participants in the development of existing skills while garnering new ones.

In order for participants increase and remain active, FQ has dedicated attention towards a coach’s development through upskilling initiatives and creation of a coach's community.

Regular coaching workshops creating opportunities for professional development of community club coaches, a feedback loop for participants, a reward and recognition program and imperative quality assurance are the aspects in which FQ will exercise in order to fulfil the secondary pillar.

Success within the pillar includes a 90% participation of the coaches attending the regularly offered workshops and development opportunities.

Pillar Three: Retention and Transition

Dedication targeted towards the encouragement of an inclusive football environment, making its participants feel important, valued and satisfied is the framework for the third and final pillar.

Personalized programs offered are created in order to welcome football for everyone. Commitment to developing effective retention and transition strategies all crafted in order to achieve 80% retention rates throughout the state.

With potential participants becoming active then ultimately losing interest and involvement, FQ disclosed their intent to target this issue.

Exit surveys are to be conducted to find patterns relating to player turn over. The creation of a comprehensive player lifecycle engagement plan in order to retain players across whatever stage of their football journey they are experiencing.

Furthermore, the creation of a centralized database tracking participation and engagement will determine areas for improvement.

Increased club capacity, a retention success score of 80% and 60% uptake of educational workshops throughout clubs are the areas of success within the retention and transition pillar.

The measurement of success within the Development Strategy plan undertaken by FQ is across multiple areas. Coaching quality, club participation churn rate, transition Success, demographic diversity, 50/50 parity, and participation retention rate all to culminate towards the primary target.

Overall

128,000 active outdoor players, 200,000 social players. All within the next two years. Quite the mountain FQ are trying to climb. The strategy plans and the roadmap to see their succession plan come to full fruition.

The roadmap for success has been created. It will be a path consisting of commitment, patience and perseverance, all culminating in the greater future success of a football rich state.

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Football Queensland (FQ) are currently preparing for a fantastic week of football, showcasing and celebrating the continuous contribution made by female football participants, beginning on Friday May 3rd FQ have facilitated activities and events that will transpire across two weeks, culminating on Sunday the 12th.

Female Football Week (FFW) is an initiative undertaken by the nation, spotlighting the significance showcased through the brilliance of our female athletes within the football plethora. The recognition of participation, acknowledgement of excellence, appreciation of contribution, all aspects for which this important week will be represented for.

Since 2014, FFW has also aided the growth of female football on a nationwide scale, given that the events and activities on offer throughout are created to not only acknowledge current female football contributors, but also inspire a new generation of young females who wish to participate in the sport.

Female football within Australia at the moment is a prosperous commodity. PM Anthony Albanese had already pledged a healthy investment into women’s sport, primarily football. This is coming off the back of Australia’s 2023 Women’s World Cup involvement as host nation.

FQ have been busy in establishing female football as pivotal points of future strategic planning. In conjunction with FQ’s 2024-2026 referee strategy plan, FQ are looking to double the current amount of female referees.

General Manager of Strategic Game Development and Referees, Andy Allan said via press release:

“Football Queensland is committed to achieving 50/50 gender parity by 2027 across all participants, which underscores our dedication to inclusivity and equity in football," he said.

“Female Football Week provides us with a wonderful opportunity to showcase all the pathways available for women and girls in our sport."

FQ intends on having a busy FFW in 2024, 5 events have currently being listed upon their website, involving Interactive School participation sessions, The commencement of youth female football leagues across Metropolitan and bayside regions across Queensland, Q-League Schools Girls round in the southern Metropolitan region, and Football Carnivals taking place in the Wide Bay region.

Furthermore, coaching and referee courses are also on offer, including 20 female junior match official coaching courses are set to take place over the 9 days, as well as 8 coaching workshops and courses are also available, covering all aspects of the game and spanning across six regions.

Queensland have already declared their provisions, we now await what is going to be on offer from the other states across the country.

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Football Queensland (FQ) are embarking on a transformative journey.

Seeking to elevate the current refereeing regime on a state-wide level is a high-priority within their objectives. The Referee Strategy plan will run from 2024 until 2026, where the current framework of officials officiating within Queensland looks to be recrafted.

Referees are the unsung heroes of any sport, especially football. The decisions they make as a collective can have historical ramifications. They are ultimately tasked with making correct decisions, while under the microscope of the entire footballing audience, governing bodies and participants all watching attentively on to hear of what the decision may be, which ultimately impacts their respective teams.

The constant pressure, scrutiny and tension they are under does not go unnoticed, nor should their presence. Referring on a global scale is a tedious aspect of sport. It is simple to attract people that are keen to participate within a sport on a playing level. In an officiating role, it is a whole different kettle of fish.

The Strategic Pillars 
The priority placed upon the recruitment and retainment of officials is a focal point of the FQ referee strategy. Unification of their already established referee base is crucial. Their primary objectives include:

3600 FQ Registered Referees across all formatted of football within Queensland.

50/50 Parity: Resulting in FQ wishing to foster 1250 more female referees.

Queensland founded referees to be represented on a global scale.

Developing pathways for educators, referees and match day officials.

With all of those objectives in mind. To execute such a tall order is achievable all through the basis of a solid foundation. The “Strategic Pillars” assorted to accumulate 3,600 referees by the year 2026 include the following stages. 

Pillar #1: Recruitment and Outreach
The re-imagination of talent recruitment, combined with diversification and expansion all are at the forefront of the strategies initial phase.

Pillar #2: Pathways and Opportunities 

Creating a community that thrives upon the continuous growth of refereeing through the establishment of a unified culture, spearheaded by the passion involved for the game and officiating.

Pillar #3: Retention and Engagement

The pressures involved within the occupation can deter potential participants or current officials for wanting to exercise their skillset within the field. The third phase within the pillars involves support directed towards the wellbeing of officials. Ensuring that they are recognized, celebrated, supported and encouraged.

Pillar #4: Training and Development

The fourth and final phase is equally as important as the previous three. The creation of cohesion amongst a community is of great importance. Looking to gain participants through revolutionary training activities in which showcase the intense art form of officiating in an engaging manner, while improving and establishing skills.
There are currently over 2000 registered referees within FQ.

They are attempting to increase their refereeing basis by 425 participants, compounding each year until 2026 while striving to double their current female referee basis.

As a footnote to Australia’s presence on a global perspective within the football world, we remain a nation in that possesses immense interest in the sport, yet haven’t found their strides in translating that passion into becoming a top-level contending country upon the football pitch on the international scale.

It was Queensland’s very own Jarred Gillet who pathed the pathway in which Australian referees should look to charter. From officiating some of the A-leagues all-time greatest clashes to becoming a primary referee within the Premier League all over the span of 11 years.

It’s a feat in which FQ will strive for within this new strategy plan. All for the benefit of football within the state of Queensland, and most importantly, for Australia.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has recently confirmed that several clubs located across the state have successfully applied to be involved in FQ’s 2nd Tier Club Development Assessment, that drives their committing to the evolution of technical improvement across regional football entity’s in Queensland.

Three regional clubs ranging from the Far North, Gulf and Northern Regions were part of being viable for the assessment process. The Southside Comets located in the Far North and Gulf region were joined by Northern region clubs Brothers Townsville, and MA Olympic. Metro entity’s Springfield United and Noosa Lions join the regional clubs in the Tier 2 assessment.

In addition two extra regional clubs including Riverway JCU and Edge Hill United, have been included in undertaking the Tier 2 Club Development Assessment on a conditional basis.

The sole purpose of the Tier 2 Assessment is for FQ to continue its ongoing support for clubs within their pyramid to receive opportunities which will establish them amongst the states best within the future. The assessment will support clubs in their efforts in upgrading technical and developmental capabilities.

Upon the FQ website, Football and State Technical Director Gabor Ganczer stated via press release:

“We are excited as more clubs, especially regional clubs, are entering Football Queensland’s FQ Academy club assessment process at the Tier 2 entry stage, highlighting FQ’s technical strategy in action as an increasing number of clubs across the state who are dedicated to elevating the standard of technical development of both players and coaches."

With five regional clubs involved in the assessment, Ganczer disclosed FQ’s message surrounding its contribution to the growth of their regional clubs.

"This is a strong indicator of the increased state-wide progression opportunities available and the appetite of clubs to work with Football Queensland to advance the standard of football and coaching expertise across the entire state.

“The FQ Academy assessment process is designed to measure a club’s technical performance from a planning, delivery and outcomes perspective, while it strengthens its accountability, transparency, and visibility across all areas to foster high-quality development and facilitate accessible tier progression."

The Club Development Assessment process was first initiated within FQ in 2020, serving as their primary system in the evolution of clubs within the state, designed to guide clubs towards growing on a technical basis.

The Club Development Process further supports coaches, players and club officials through licensed courses, webinars and information workshops, proving insight and clarity surrounding what the assessment entails.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has solidified its partnership with The Trophy Superstore, becoming its Official Trophies and Medal partner for two years.

The Australian company, with its headquarters located in Brisbane, will continue to provide FQ competitions, tournaments and major award events with silverware and medallions.

The superstore will ensure that their services are executed in a quality, timely, individualised and articulate fashion for the Queensland Football Community.

The partnership between both FQ and the silverware provider has occurred for several years. The Trophy Superstore offers the creation of trophies, medals, achievement plaques and engraving services to several different sporting codes across Australia.

“Football Queensland is proud to partner with Queensland owned companies like Trophy Superstore who are committed to producing top quality products with the upmost care,” Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said via press release.  

“This partnership comes from a long-established and very positive working relationship developed with Trophy Superstore in recent years which has seen the company produce trophies and medals for our most prestigious awards including our FQ league titles, Football in Queensland Awards Night recipients and most recently the winners of the 2024 National Futsal Championships held on the Gold Coast. 

“We are looking forward to building on our existing relationship with Trophy Superstore as we recognise and celebrate the achievements of the Queensland football community. 

“Football Queensland is committed to maintaining and developing these vital commercial partnerships as they help to support the growth of the game and improve the football experience for our entire community.” 

Managing Director Ian Stuart is excited to deliver high-quality trophies, medals and awards to the Queensland football community to help recognise all those who contribute to the game.  

“Our relationship with Football Queensland spans many years and we are delighted to formalise a partnership which will continue to recognise the importance of Football, its members and supporters, at all levels within the community,” he added via media release.

“The Trophy Superstore is ready to assist the FQ community in recognising their clubs, members and communities for the 2024 season and beyond, by offering special FQ Club pricing on awards and medals.” 

With the consideration regarding the importance surrounding the visual appeal and quality of a trophy in the eyes of both its holders and fans alike, the partnership already established has pleased FQ officials. It’s important that a player feels satisfied when receiving a trophy, they are not exactly applauded for their quality, but are definitely exposed if they are not something deemed worthy by players and fans alike.

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Southside Eagles FC have received a grant from Football Queensland and the Queensland Government, in a collaborative effort driving for more inclusivity amongst sport across the state.

The Club where entitled to the grant given their strategic facility development team making an application in which correlated with Football Queensland’s ideologies.

The healthy grant of $293,000 was publicised on the official Instagram page.

“We are excited to bring a more inclusive football experience to our Cannon Hill facility to enable us to continue to grow our female football section at the Southside Eagles,” the statement read.

Southside Eagles FC are based in the Brisbane suburb of Bulimba. Founded in 1968, the Eagles were founded upon the merging of the two former Queensland based clubs, Germani and Southside Belmont.

Germanic where a club within Brisbane throughout the 1950s in who where supported by Brisbane's extensive German community. In 1962, Germania had won Brisbane's second tier of football but faced relegation a season later. There tenure within Brisbane football prior to their overnight success and failure remained in that fashion until merging with Southside Belmont Soccer Club, who were predominantly a junior club. Germania absorbed the struggling Southside in 1968, however the club was name to its current Southside Eagles was changed in 1972 as  part of Football Queensland's drive to separate ethnic name titles away from clubs.

Despite their form never recovering following its strength shown in the 1970s, fast forward 47 years later and their impact upon football within the state remained widely recognised, given their invitation to participate in the Football Queensland Premier League from its initial season in 2017.

It’s always heartwarming to see governing bodies acknowledging a club reliant upon its volunteers, who wish to grow in capacity not for financial gain - for the greater support and encouragement of football across a nation where it’s passion can not be relented.

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FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci recently featured on an episode of The Subs Bench podcast to discuss an improved stadium in Brisbane in a bid to grow the game further.

Football Queensland and Football Australia's push to upgrade the state's spiritual home of football, Perry Park, has been a hot topic of discussion for a good amount of time.

In a submission to a federal inquiry into Australia’s preparedness to host the Olympic Games, Football Australia called for an upgrade of Perry Park to become a 10 or 15,000 seat stadium with improved internal facilities.

Cavallucci discussed why this upgrade needs to be completed following the rise of the games popularity.

"The question should be, does football require a more appropriate stadium that reflects its needs? Absolutely it does," he said on The Subs Bench podcast.

"The city and the state needs a football appropriate that reflects football's very unique requirements and the fact we don't have one is symptomatic of 20 or 30 years of failure as a code to actively advocate for our needs. Thats obviously changing dramatically and very quickly.

"Perry Park obviously has a lot of suitable elements, it's in the inner city, which is perfect, it's on a train line which is even better, it's on major road infrastructure. You can access it from everywhere and very quickly.

"Importantly it links in with the broader sporting spine on those train lines so you can get from there to Suncorp to the Gabba and get to Perry Park from all those places."

Cavallucci added that this upgrade is necessary for the sport to advance in the state and shed light on how it would affect all tiers of the football pyramid.

"There's no question it's been on our top three infrastructure priorities for four years and we're absolutely putting in significant work to eventually bring that to life," he said.

"It's important for the code and it's important for not only professional and semi-professional levels but it's important for women's football but also the A-League expansion as well.

"We should have a second Brisbane team; it will absolutely mobilise a broader fanbase. It can only be brought into life if we have appropriate infrastructure."

With the Olympics a hot topic at the moment and FQ's push to secure more funding for a second top rectangular stadium, it will be an interesting talking point that the government will have to consider to help progress football in the region.

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Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci recently featured on an episode of The Subs Bench podcast to discuss multiple issues in the Queensland football space.

One of the more hotly debated topics were the allegations and rumours swirling on social media regarding Football Queensland's involvement in the National Second Tier bidding process.

On The Sub's Bench podcast, Cavallucci strongly defended against these claims that Football Queensland were roadblocking clubs from putting a final bid in and doubled down on the body's support for the state's NPL clubs who intend to join.

Cavallucci spoke specifically about how the process of selecting clubs for the National Second Tier would work.

"As the governing body that process of choosing clubs needs to be independent process of selection criteria and run by Football Australia. We're not going to come out and publicly pick winners, or one bid over another bid or one endorsement over another," he said on The Subs Bench podcast.

The allegations against Football Queensland online suggested the body worked against clubs that applied for the NST, but Cavallucci was quick to shut that notion down.

"Certain negative sentiments were being deliberately disseminated and that happens in these circumstances. If the clubs bid was deficient in some capacity and the likelihood of success was low, the easiest way to defer responsibility is to put it onto the third party," he said.

"The easy victim in this case is the governing body. It's their fault our bid didn't stack up, it's their fault that we're deficient in these areas."

Football Queensland throughout the process remained fully supportive of the new competition but understood it was likely not the right time for specific clubs in the state to be involved as soon as 2025. Cavallucci mentioned working with other bodies to try and find a solution for these NPL clubs to get involved.

"None of that is true. We absolutely supported clubs where we were asked to in certain ways. I spoke regularly to many of the presidents involved to provide support to them and they would ask us questions, proactively engage with Football Australia," he said.

"We were enormously active in the assembly of the National Second Tier model, we were in working groups with Football Australia for two years leading up to it."

There were six applicant clubs progressed to the National Second Tier Request for Proposal phase, however, ultimately four NPL Queensland clubs withdrew making public and private statements regarding their decisions and they demonstrated patience. The four clubs cited a preference to wait for a more mature NST final model.

NPL Queensland have clubs that certainly can garner the financial strength through amazing peer support and critical revenue streams. They have clubs with insanely rich histories in this country that deserve to be playing at the highest possible level.

There has been very little discussion as to whether Football Australia will cast the net wider and expand on the 8-team league it currently is however it gives the six Queensland clubs some time to sort out financials and launch an improved bid.

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The Gambling Community Benefit Fund's (GCBF) second round of applications for 2024 are open until April 30.

Ran by the Queensland Government, it has been supported by Football Queensland to encourage applicants to get involved in the state's largest one-off community grants program which distributes approximately $60 million each year.

The GCBF supports groups across the state which provide services, leisure activities and opportunities throughout Queensland's diverse and extensive communities. In 2024, the first round of funding has already occurred, with the grant sum total of $35,000. Round 121, the one in which Football Queensland fall within, are entitled to grants of $100,000. Round 121 is rightly named in recognition of the 30th Anniversary, dubbed as a super round.

The funding granted by the GCBF can enable clubs across Queensland to invest in a vast variety of Football related aspects including training, coaching, and player development, while also providing funds for facility improvement and creation. Furthermore, the money can also lead to the creation of community events in that will drive youth participation, similar to the Melburnian Boys and Girls FC event held in Bendigo.

In relation to this grant, Football Queensland renewed their partnership with Felton Industries who are Australia’s primary designer of aluminium outdoor based furniture. They are currently the official seating, shelter and grandstands partner of Football Queensland, and have joined the entity in providing their services to clubs in need of grandstands, clubrooms, clubroom furniture or upgrades in facilities.

The two organisations renewed their existing agreement for a further two years in February. Chief Executive Operator of Football Queensland Robert Cavallucci stated his approval of the Felton Industries partnership, claiming how it compliments Football Queensland's 2023-2026 strategic plan - ensuring that “there are no barriers to participation and clubs are provided with high-quality infrastructure”.

With the 100k grant coming from the GCBF for the Queensland community, both parties within the partnership are able to benefit.

Football Queensland will continue to comply with its strategic plan through the yearly improvement of its footballing facilities across the state. Felton Industries will provide those required upgrades with all the manufacturing process occurring in Australia.

From all aspects, the partnership all attributes to the growth and nourishment of Football within Queensland, therefore only raising the quality amongst it.

For full information on GCBF and to apply, you can find it here: https://www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants

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Football Queensland have released numbers for the 2023 year that show a steep rise in female participation across all age groups following the incredible Women’s World Cup held on home soil.

In 2023, the split for Football Queensland participation was set at 69.8% Male and 30.2% Female which represents a hefty increase from 25.5% participation in 2022. The federation have been adamant that the 50/50 gender parity goal can be achieved by the start of the 2027 season which matches Football Australia’s Gender Equality Action Plan.

In the 2023-2026 Football Queensland Strategic Plan, the federation recognised that they had to transform their Women and Girls Strategy by integrating it with FQ’s Strategic Infrastructure Plan and Schools Strategy to supercharge growth.

The plan mentioned that there will be new facilities in place for boys and girls teams built in Brisbane’s North which will deliver state-of-the-art playing fields, a clubhouse, and community spaces.

This ambition to fast track growth means that FQ are putting an emphasis on creating the best possible foundation for ongoing growth on their path to 50/50 participation. This consists of improving numbers in coaching, volunteering and refereeing for women and girls.

Quickly, the federation are seeing results in many different sectors of the women’s game, most recently announcing that there was an incredible 81.4% participation increase recorded at women and girls festivals and programs in 2023.

FQ also has an ongoing commitment to supporting the progression of female coaches which was seen in the 2023 success that resulted in a 28% increase in female coach numbers for the year.

The next step for Football Queensland is ensuring the up and coming talent in the women’s game is properly developed by making use of the FQ Academy QAS program. The program has been a major success and has produced players for Australia’s national teams, including eight players in the CommBank Matildas squad for the 2023 WWC.

The strategic plan key targets outlined that FQ are ensuring there will be at least 25 Advanced female technical directors and female technical staff in key roles across Queensland by 2026.

This drive to utilise the success of the 2023 WWC along with strategic planning and tactical investment in the women’s game has allowed the federation to see enormous growth so quickly.

They are well on their way to hitting important KPI's, similar to the 50/50 gender parity by 2027 and 62,000 club based female participants by 2026 which signify the change in modern football.

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Brisbane Roar, in conjunction with the City of Moreton Bay Council, plans to open its new state-of-the-art football training facility in July this year.

The development of a new training precinct - the City of Moreton Bay Football Centre of Excellence - has been in the pipeline for nearly two years, but looks set to become a reality in Brisbane’s North.

Importantly, the new facility will bring its women’s and men’s A-League and NPL teams under one roof, in a move that will help increase club unity and enhance career pathways for its academy players.

The club is currently separated across the city, with its Liberty A-League side based at the Queensland Sports and Athletics Centre in Brisbane’s South, whilst its Isuzu UTE A-League side trains at Meakin Park - a further 20 minutes away.

As confirmed by both parties, some of the features will include:

• 5 training fields
• A main changeroom with amenities
• Gym, recovery, and physiotherapy rooms
• Kitchen, lounge, laundry and bathroom facilities
• Coaching offices and media rooms
• Private boom gate parking

The precinct brings with it the much anticipated Women’s Football Centre of Excellence, that aims to provide a unique experience for Brisbane’s current and future female stars.

Queensland continues to be a massive provider of talent for women’s football in Australia, evidenced to its full extent during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where Mackenzie Arnold, Clare Polkinghorne, Katrina Gorry, and Hayley Raso all represented the Matildas.

However, many of these players endured several moves around the country to develop their game as youngsters, evidencing the finite provision of local and national resources available to the women’s game.

With the new Women’s Centre of Excellence, Brisbane Roar are offering its future Katrina Gorry and Clare Polkinghorne not just a state-of-the-art facility, but stability and comfort in their football journey.

Brisbane Roar have been working closely with the City of Moreton Bay Council and are firmly focused on opening the facility ahead of the 2024/25 A Leagues season. Speaking at the ribbon-cutting event, Brisbane Roar Chairman & CEO, Kaz Patafta, was elated about what the club and the council is set to achieve.

“Brisbane Roar are thrilled to extend our collaboration with the City of Moreton Bay Council, marking a significant milestone with the development of a world-class football high-performance facility,” Patafta stated via media release.

“The club eagerly anticipates unifying our team and offering our players access to a premier, top-class training environment later this year.”

Council Mayor, Peter Flannery, is enthusiastic about the prospect of growing the women’s game in Brisbane.

“It’s great to see the Women’s Football Centre of Excellence being completed after a long journey. Although the fields aren’t quite ready for use, the Roar have begun fitting out the facility with their equipment in preparation for the 2024-25 season,” Mayor Flannery added via press release.

“This will be one of the leading dedicated women’s sporting facilities in the country once the fields are completed over the coming months.”

The Roar’s investment in state-of-the-art infrastructure is sure to have a noticeable effect on its football operations. It will also hope to encourage participation at local junior level, with the facility serving as a place of aspiration for young players.

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Football Queensland's 2024 State Referee Conference will be held Saturday, January 20 and Sunday, January 21.

The conference will be available in a hybrid format as it was in 2023, with attendees able to join the in-person event at St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace or access the sessions from regional hubs in an online platform.

The State Referee Conference is an annual get-together before the upcoming season as Queensland-based referees learn from special guest speakers, get to know their peers and build relationships with fellow match officials.

The two-day format of the conference will first be open to all referees on day one, before more in-depth practical sessions on the second day exploring specific referee concepts for NPL Queensland, FQPL and FQ Referee Academy match officials.

At the time of confirmed conference dates, Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci expressed why the State Referee Conference is an essential part of the football calendar.

“The annual State Referee Conference provides an important opportunity for Queensland referees to come together ahead of the new season to learn from special guest speakers, get to know their peers and build relationships with fellow match officials,” Cavallucci said in a statement.

“After the success of the hybrid event format in 2023, we’re excited to again deliver the 2024 State Referee Conference both in person and online, accommodating match officials at every level of the game from every region.

“Metro based referees are encouraged to register early to attend the in-person event at St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace with only 250 spaces available, while FQ will also host in-person events in regional parts of the state for referees located across Queensland.”

Register here to attend the in-person event at St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace.

Register here to view the conference online from a regional hub or from home.

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Football Queensland will host an inaugural Queensland Football Convention towards the end of the year - unifying clubs, coaches, referees and participants from the length and breadth of Queensland across three engaging and immersive days.

The convention is scheduled to take place between 1-3 November 2024 in Brisbane city.

The 2023-2026 Strategic Plan that was released by Football Queensland stated that they would have a 'One Football Approach' which is an initiative to improve and focus on all areas of the game.

The convention was not mentioned in the Strategic Plan, but the idea was certainly raised with their ambition to unite the game and unlock football’s true potential in the state.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci mentioned the importance of gradually improving the sport in many areas in Queensland.

“Recognising that to move the game forward, we need to continue innovating and elevate the football debate, we’re excited to unite members of our football community for the first edition of the annual Queensland Football Convention,” Cavallucci said via press conference.

“The first conference session on Saturday 2nd November will begin to unpack the strategic direction of the game with guest speakers and expert industry panels before breaking out into Part 1 of the Referee, Coaching and Club conferences, with FQ committee sessions and FQ Board and FQ member sessions closing out the day."

There will be a range of guests from different sectors of the footballing space in Queensland and Australia invited to the convention, however, currently no names have been confirmed.

“Headlining the Queensland Football Convention on Saturday evening will be the 2024 Football in Queensland Awards Night at Brisbane City Hall, an event which is always a highlight of our football calendar. With well over 500 in attendance we will celebrate the achievements of the state’s most outstanding individuals, teams and clubs," Cavallucci continued.

“Featuring tailored content for clubs, referees and coaches in addition to strategic and operational planning sessions, the convention will conclude on Sunday 3rd November with Part 2 of the Referee, Coaching and Club conferences.

“The innovative Queensland Football Convention will bring all facets of our game together for one unmissable weekend while connecting our football community with each other, alongside key business and government contacts to support the ongoing growth of football in Queensland,” he concluded.

Further information on ticket packages and hosts/guests will be released by Football Queensland.

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Football Queensland have announced a five-year partnership extension with iconic international sports brand Kappa as its official apparel partner from 2024.

This relationship between the two parties has been very strong since they first partnered all the way back in 2017 and reinforces the support for football in Queensland that the brand has had.

Kappa has provided quality garments for some of Europe's biggest clubs including Manchester City, Juventus, AC Milan and the Italian National team.

It's a brand that was established in 1916 in Turin and eventually in 1978 they rebranded themselves to branch out as a sportwear brand where they focused purely on football-related products and designs.

For Football Queensland, they currently produce and provide quality on and off-field apparel for all Queensland State Representative teams including the state’s futsal representative squads. Kappa also provide on-field apparel for the game’s referees on the FQ website.

They also helped sponsor and start up the Kappa Women’s Super Cup and Kappa Pro Series tournaments that debuted in late 2021 and 2022 respectively for clubs to participate in across the state.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci was extremely pleased to announce this partnership extension following Kappa's amazing support.

“Football Queensland is incredibly excited to announce Kappa as our official apparel partner for the next five years following a competitive tender process which saw us receive 20 expressions of interest and 15 submissions of an extremely high quality,” Cavallucci said via Football Queensland press release.

“In their seven years as a Football Queensland partner, Kappa has provided fantastic support to Football Queensland, our clubs and the wider football community thanks to their quality of apparel, ability to deliver on their promises and the team’s unwavering commitment to customer service.

“We’ve built a wonderful working relationship with the team at Kappa thanks to their willingness to go above and beyond to deliver outcomes for our organisation and our game, and we’re delighted to continue working in partnership with them from next year.”

Kappa Australia Director Ze’ev Bogaty shared the same sentiment for the great relationship the two parties have created.

“Kappa is a strong supporter of football in Queensland and has been proud to invest in the game since the partnership with Football Queensland began in 2017,” Bogaty mentioned in the FQ press release.

“Some highlights of the partnership have included the development of the teal shirt for first year referees, witnessing Queensland state sides dominate on the national stage in Kappa kit, and the launch of the Kappa Women’s Super Cup and Kappa Pro Series tournaments.

“As we embark on another five years as the state’s official apparel partner and continue our close working relationship with Football Queensland, we look forward to contributing even more to the growth and success of football across the state.”

There is a shared goal of improving the grassroots game in Queensland from both parties and the track record of Kappa's immense investment over the past seven years has shown that this extension will do wonders for Queensland football.

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Football Queensland Premier League side Logan Lightning have confirmed the club are close to upgrading their club rooms at Chris Green Park, which has not been renovated since the late 70s.

The update will include change rooms for male and female teams, as well as a new and expanded clubroom for Logan Lightning FC, to facilitate the increase in involvement  in the sport amongst women and girls.

The new facility will include spectator facilities such as a new kitchen and kiosk, a covered viewing area, referee amenities, a first aid room, and more storage space.

Club President Andrew Birkett provided insights into the development of the project and how the excitement growing at the club.

“The Chris Green Park redevelopment has been a major project that we have been trying to upgrade since last term of government,” he told Soccerscene.

“The facility is council owned and they were the driving force behind the upgrade, with the age of the park facility showing.”

“The old club room was really run down, it was well and truly time for an upgrade. Builders are optimistic to complete the project earlier than we expected.

“We are really happy to get an investment from the council and it is good to see they are investing in the community and youth.”

The initial cost of the project planned before the COVID was at $1.6 million, however, it has leaped to $4.8 million since then to complete the unisex facility.

The club has two facilities - Cornubia Park where the seniors play their matches, and the set for development at Chris Green Park, where juniors and women's play.

The club is currently using temporary facilities at Chris Green Park during construction works.

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Football Queensland’s Diploma Program for 2024 is set to be delivered in conjunction with TAFE Queensland.

The program is a 12-month course and provides graduates with a Diploma of Sport.

Unlike broader programs, this one will provide students with the opportunity to complete their studies in a practical football centric environment. This will include work integrated learning that will be facilitated directly with Football Queensland.

The opportunity to complete workplace learning with the governing body will be a huge sell for the program and is likely to be a great way for the quality of Queensland football to grow.

The studies themselves will cover a wide range of sports relates subjects, all geared towards preparing students to work in industry upon graduation.

Some of the areas covered in the course include high performance training, coaching techniques, the management of people, and the management of sporting events.

Graduates will be qualified to work as coaches or sport development managers. They will also be equipped to design, deliver, and manage a range of football activities, including training sessions, junior activations, tournaments and competitions.

The program will be headquartered at Meakin Park, giving students direct access to the heart of the Queensland game.

Through the programs proximity to the body, students will be able to regularly engage with quality football facilities as well as guest lecturers both from Football Queensland itself and also the wider sports industry.

Discussing this exciting opportunity, Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci expressed the governing bodies excitement at being able to directly facilitate its states next generation of administrative talent.

“Following the success of the TAFE at Schools program, we’re delighted to deliver the Football Queensland Diploma Program from 2024 as part of our partnership with TAFE Queensland,” he said via press release.

“Football is already the state’s largest participation sport, and with our game only continuing to grow in the wake of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™ there has never been a better time to begin working towards a career in football.”

TAFE Queensland’s Academy Sport Manager Jesse O’Hara spoke of how this deal solidifies Queensland as the new frontier for football in Australia.

“Students are craving real world learning with tangible career outcomes, a style of learning that suits us naturally at TAFE Queensland. With the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 happening on our doorstep and the constant growth in football participation across the state, the football industry has never been stronger in Queensland,” he added via press release.

“We view this program as the ideal pathway for students looking to embark on their career with the football, and broader sports industry.”

This program is an exciting development for the growth of football not only in Queensland but also nationwide.

Through focusing its program on the development of the future administrators of the game, Football Queensland is helping to secure an efficient future for football in this country that is also one that is self-sufficient.

For students, this program will be a great pathway into real-world experience and coupling that with TAFE Queensland’s diploma-to-degree pathway, this will be a great step to help students keen to be involved in sport but unsure of how to gain both a qualification and industry experience while also keeping the door open to further study.

For those readers interested in participating in the scheme please visit https://tafeqld.edu.au/sportsacademy.

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There are very few people in Australian football who have left their mark on so many facets of the game like Gary Cole.

From his early days in the Victorian Premier League as a professional footballer which led to a prolific goalscoring record in the National Soccer League (NSL) and significant success with the Socceroos, Cole has experienced it all.

Cole wasn’t the type who could hang up his boots and not play any further part in the game, so he pursued coaching positions in the Victorian State League, Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and the NSL.

He was also the first Director of Football at Melbourne Victory from 2005 to 2011 and occupied a similar role at Sydney FC in 2012.

Recently, Cole has completed an eight-month stint with Football Australia (F.A.) in trying to establish a National Academy.

Significantly, he has occupied an active role on the Board of Football Coaches Australia (FCA) for the last three years and was recently elected as President.

Although there have been periods he has been absent from the game, Gary Cole identifies strongly with the desire to see football in this country prosper.

In this interview with Roger Sleeman, Gary Cole discusses his recent work at the F.A., shares his opinion on the standard of playing and coaching, and the means by which football can be improved on and off of the park.

ROGER SLEEMAN

You were recently with the F.A. but your position was made redundant.

What did you achieve while you were there?

GARY COLE

My specific role was to initiate the setup of a National Academy, similar to the previous AIS.

I reconnected with people involved in coaching education at the FA and also met up with representatives of the member federations.

However, ultimately the FA decided not to invest in the Academy.

Whether it was a question of affordability or their lack of desire, I wasn’t privy to the reasons behind the decision.

Nevertheless, the FA Board should be asked to read a document compiled in 2021/2022 called; “The One Football Strategy”, which revealed a hunger for the Academy to be established with the FA and the member Federations working in unison.

Furthermore, with the appointment by FIFA of Arsene Wenger as Chief Football Officer who has stated every nation should have a National Academy or Centre of Excellence by 2026, it flies in the face of the decision to close the AIS in 2017 and the reluctance to invest in a National Academy now.

R.S.

What do you observe as other problems in the system?

G.C.

Player development and talent identification are key factors in producing a better quality of player.

Graham Arnold said before the last World Cup in his Gap Report that players from u/17- u/23 don’t get enough game time.

in his role as Chief Football Officer at the FA, Ernie Merrick has a big job to review and change the system because people involved in coaching at the moment are frustrated by the current pathways and lack of investment in the game.

R.S.

When you were at the FA, how did you rate the expertise of your colleagues and other employees  in the organisation?

G.C.

I had already worked with Will Hastie at Football Victoria and rubbed shoulders with seasoned campaigners Ian Crook and Gary Phillips - who I’ve both known for a long time.

However, they’re all busy people who are fully occupied in their coaching development and administrative roles.

Regarding other employees at the FA, it isn’t always the case that obtaining a university degree in sports management guarantees a contribution can be made to the game.

If football isn’t your first love and you don’t have a background in the game, it makes it much harder.

While I was there, I witnessed a high turnover of staff which indicated that maybe the wrong people were being employed.

R.S.

How can we get more former professional players involved in media, coaching, marketing and operations?

G.C.

Professional Footballers Australia are trying to encourage current players to think about remaining in the game and they are paying for their courses.

Some players want to get away from the game and follow a new career but for others, it’s a matter of examining their skill set which doesn’t happen enough.

One of the biggest problems is the current regime feels threatened by the presence of former players which is a big mistake.

Surely, the retention of more former players in life after football can only benefit the sport due to their total understanding of the product.

R.S.

We are producing very few tactically accomplished players in the game.

What is the solution?

G.C.

I was invited to the National Youth Championships in Coffs Harbour last year by the FA and spent some time with former Socceroo striker, Josh Kennedy.

There were players on view with reasonable technical ability but there was a dearth of quality strikers.

Control and passing technique were excellent but they didn’t know where the ball should be going before and after the pass was made.

It shouldn’t be just about maintaining possession which the current coach education emphasises.

What about penetration behind defences to create goal scoring opportunities?

In relation to the quality of players in general, every coach I speak to decries the quality of players coming through the system.

When we replaced the AIS and State institute of Sports because the Dutch said not enough players were getting a chance, we set up academies in the A-League and NPL clubs.

The intention of the model was theoretically sound,  but as Wenger says the reason to establish national academies is so the best play with the best which provides the ultimate learning environment.

R.S.

You spent six years with Melbourne Victory from the start of the A-League and it was the boom club of the competition for many years.

What has happened?

G.C.

The club had lost its way to some extent when Geoff Lord was replaced as chairman and Ernie Merrick and I moved on.

However, when Ange Postecoglou became coach and was succeeded by Kevin Muscat, the performances on the park improved and AAMI Park was always full.

After they vacated their positions, recruiting wasn’t up to scratch and then Covid struck.

When Tony Popovic took over two seasons ago, the mood became positive leading to a Australia Cup win and just missing out on the Championship.

Unfortunately, the club finished last in the league last season and I believe the reluctance to start U/23’S from the Academy was a major reason for the poor performance.

In contrast, the Mariners - with the smallest budget in the league - gave their youngsters a chance and achieved wonders while Adelaide United provided opportunity for their youth players and also performed very well.

Notably, there has been a clearing out of the Football Department at Victory and Poppa has a new squad so hopefully the club will benefit on and off the field.

Unquestionably, the A-League needs a strong Melbourne Victory.

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Brisbane Roar have announced a partnership with Westpoint Autos to become their Official Vehicle Partner as the A-League season approaches.

Brisbane Roar and Westpoint Autos aligned their values, with both parties keen on providing a sense of service to the South-East Queensland community as well as being active in schools, sporting groups and charities.

The partnership means that Westpoint Autos will feature on the front of the Men’s shorts and is also a retailer of league partner, Isuzu UTE.

Brisbane Roar benefit from this deal by having access to several Westpoint Autos vehicles. This includes the whole club from the staff to the Men's and Women's players.

Established in 1988 and located across South-East Queensland, Westpoint Autos is regarded as one of Australia's most accomplished and innovative automotive groups. They offer four services which are:

• Car finance
• Car servicing
• Parts & accessories
• Free car valuation

Westpoint Autos is a family-owned and run dealership operating with strong core values, a commitment to service, and care for the community. They have expanded to 10 locations across Queensland and continue to grow as a company.

Brisbane Roar CEO Kaz Patafta was delighted with the move to collaborate with a local company.

“I’m pleased to welcome Westpoint Autos to the Brisbane Roar family. A family-owned business with a strong focus on supporting its community and is a philosophy that closely resonates with the new vision for Brisbane Roar,” he said in a club press release.

“We’re pleased to partner with a business that sets the standards within their industry in Brisbane, and we look forward to a successful working partnership.”

Luke Hawkins, Dealer Principal at Westpoint Autos, spoke about the connection between the company and sport, adding via media release:

“Westpoint Autos is looking forward to joining Brisbane Roar as Official Vehicle Partner. We are avid supporters of Junior, Men’s and Women’s sports and are excited to see a range of our vehicles supporting the Roar staff, and players around Brisbane and beyond,” he said.

This partnership is a great move from both parties and a big chance to not only benefit each other with the collaboration perks, but to also work towards improving the sport scene in South-East Queensland which is an important goal set out by Brisbane Roar CEO Kaz Patafta in the 2023/24 strategic plan.

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Brisbane Roar has announced further collaboration with Football Queensland, the state's governing body.

This partnership will focus on developing next generation talent for both the men’s and women’s game. The club is hoping that this deal will create clearer paths for Queensland players to reach both the Isuzu UTE A-League and the Liberty A-League.

The deal also sees both parties committing to developing football infrastructure - such as club rooms, pitches, and other development focused facilities. This is directly attributed to the Matildas and their success at the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup.

During the tournament, 40% of the Matildas squad was Queensland developed talent. With some of the squad's biggest names like Cortnee Vine and Mackenzie Arnold heralding from the sunny state.

The collaboration will also hope to build talent off the pitch with the partners citing the need for the development of officials and coaches.

The state has already proved its aptitude in this sphere with Matilda's Assistant Coach Melissa Andreatta being a Queenslander, a former FQ Academy QAS, and the former Brisbane Roar Head Coach.

Speaking on the new collaboration and the partners shared goals for football in Queensland, Brisbane Roar CEO Kaz Patafta had this to say via media release:

“In strengthening our alliance with Football Queensland, Brisbane Roar reaffirms its dedication to the growth of football across Queensland. We are committed to nurturing local talent and deepening the connection with our dedicated fan base,” he said.

“This renewed partnership symbolises a unified vision and a shared passion for growing the world game in Queensland.”

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci reiterated this message and spoke of Roar's importance to football in the state.

“The Brisbane Roar is an important part of the football landscape in Queensland and this collaboration, with a fresh leadership approach, paves the way for new opportunities and innovative ways of working to reach our strategic vision of Football in Queensland United,” he added via press release.

This collaboration is an exciting new dawn for football in Queensland. As one of the nation's strongest footballing states, it is great news to see that both clubs and governing bodies are committed to helping each other grow.

The announcement is also another huge reward for football off the back of the Matildas' run at the Women's World Cup and highlights how important the growth of the women’s game in Australia has been to allowing all of football to grow.

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Uberline has been named Football Queensland's (FQ) Official Line Marking Partner, the organisation's official supplier for FQ facilities, and the prefered vendor for line-marking supplies and tools for FQ associated clubs.

With the help of FQ, Uberline, an Australian family-owned business that prides itself on offering high-quality products at competitive rates, will create a Line Marking Guide.

UberLine is a family owned company that has been providing councils, industry and sports clubs all over Australia with the best value grass line marking paint and a comprehensive range of grass and road line marking machines plus machines for surface preparation for many years.

“Football Queensland is proud to be partnering with companies like Uberline who are committed to manufacturing top quality products and providing great customer service, at cost effective prices for our clubs, Field markings are an essential part of our game, so it is important that we use high quality products such as Uberline, who have excelled through comparative testing, to ensure fields are marked well for our participants to enjoy,” Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci stated via press release.

Uberline General Manager Lee Thomas added via press release:

“Football Queensland is committed to developing these vital commercial relationships to not only drive efficiency but also reduce costs and improve service levels to our entire football community; we are looking forward to building a strong partnership with Uberline and are confident that our clubs will enjoy their products and services,” he said.

“Uberline is looking forward to building relationships with football clubs across the state through our partnership with Football Queensland as we deliver quality products to benefit clubs at every level of the game.

“We’re also excited to develop a Line Marking Guide in conjunction with Football Queensland which will provide valuable information to support club volunteers who play such a vital role within the game.”

Football Queensland continuously look to grow the game in the state - by adding new partnerships such as Uberline it will improve all aspects of football.

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Football Queensland and the Brisbane City Council have struck a landmark $35 million deal for the development of Nudgee Recreation Reserve in the city's north.

The deal will help to transform the former landfill site into the centre of football in Queensland. It will include the building of six state-of-the-art multipurpose sports fields, the installation of sport field lighting to facilitate the playing of games in the evening, a new club house, and also a number of community facilities including a playground and even a BMX track.

It is a significant contribution to the game in Queensland, where following the success of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, both governing bodies and politicians alike are throwing their empathic support behind football's development for both girls and boys.

In Queensland, football is the state’s largest participation sport and has seen rapid growth particularly in the women’s game. The hope is that Nudgee’s development will help to meet the demands of all Queensland football but particularly the recently launched Girls United social league, giving it not only fields but also a headquarters.

Speaking on the impact that the Matildas success has had on the decision to provide such significant funding, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner directly correlated the two.

“The incredible efforts of our Matildas and the huge crowds during the Women’s World Cup show this facility is being delivered right in time to meet the booming participation in football by women and girls,” he said via press release.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci expressed similar sentiments, reflecting on the growth and reach of the game in the state.

“Today’s announcement will help meet the existing pressures and demands of the 40,000 strong club-based participants in Brisbane LGA and further support the delivery of community, development, and female football programs to the more than 35,000 social players in Brisbane as part of a Metro North Football hub,” he added via press release.

“Enabling infrastructure projects like this are key to delivering opportunities for the thousands of boys and girls who are being turned away by local clubs every season due to a lack of infrastructure to service the current demands of our ever growing game.

“I’d like to commend Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and recognise the great work of the Brisbane City Council for acknowledging this and delivering such a critical boost to the community. Football Queensland will create more places for the local community to play football and deliver more programs to improve the football experience for participants of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

“The success of the biggest ever FIFA Women’s World Cup currently happening in our own backyard is a reflection that Brisbane is a football city, with a huge appetite for the beautiful game.

“With the CommBank Matildas inspiring a new generation of young male and female footballers, infrastructure like this facility will ensure we can serve the next generation by meeting the infrastructure needs of today.”

This announcement is a significant victory for Australian football as it shows the impact that the Matilda's success is going to have at the public funding level. As the game has often struggled for recognition against the other established codes, it is wonderful to see the beautiful game being championed by our women’s team and for that success to be inspiring not just young boys and girls take up the sport but also for politicians to dig deep.

Developments like Nudgee being fundamental in allowing our future Sam Kerrs and Mackenzie Arnolds in Brisbane to reach those dreams.

Nudgee Recreation Reserve's development has already got under way and is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

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Football Queensland have introduced the Protect Our Game initiative, taking the lead in the fight against abuse.

With the launch of the Protect Our Game project, Football Queensland has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating bad behaviour from the game. The organisation is also taking the lead in combating abuse by implementing a bold and effective Three Strike Policy and new reporting system.

The Three Strike Policy applies to clubs where instances of abuse or misbehaviour directed at referees or other members of the football community - from spectators, club officials, team officials, players and clubs - are reported.

Strikes do not replace sanctions or penalties that may be applied or issued to individuals, as a consequence of breaches of the FQ Disciplinary Regulations, or any other conduct that may have occurred in circumstances associated with the determination of a strike. The enforcement outcome of a strike will always be 'in addition to' any individual's disciplinary determination.

“It has been alarming to see a considerable increase in reports of abuse, particularly against referees, and other forms of unacceptable behaviour both on and off the field this season,” FQ President Paula Robinson said via press release.

“More than 1,200 red cards have already been issued in 2023, while off the field we’ve received many reports of concerning incidents involving players, parents and referees.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci added in a statement:

“As the state’s governing body, Football Queensland recognises the importance of leading the way in developing and investing in the necessary policies to support and protect our participants across the state”.

“Our referees in particular play a crucial role in the delivery of our game, and we must do everything we can to ensure football remains a safe place for match officials and for all who love our game.

“As we roll out a strengthened Three Strike Policy and new reporting mechanism after the initial launch of Protect Our Game last year, we’re calling on all participants, spectators and club members to help us eliminate poor behaviour from our game by reporting any instances of abuse, violence and other incidents through the new QR code process.”

The Three Strike Policy came into effect from Monday, July 10 2023 and applies to all new incidents from this date.

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With over 78,000 games played throughout the state-wide linked football pyramid in 2022, Football Queensland continued to revolutionise football in the state, being an inspirational year for the sport.

Implementing the Future of Football 2020+ competition changes took up a substantial amount of 2022 as Football Queensland strengthened the linked football pyramid that had been created in 2021 to link tournaments and enhance routes for clubs and players around the state.

Accordingly, and as a thrilling addition for local clubs, FQ introduced the FQPL Champions League in 2022. The FQPL Champions League was created to provide aspiring players brand-new chances as they fought against the best of the best from both their conference and the rest of the state. The first FQPL Champions League brought together the top teams from the Northern, Central, and South East Queensland conferences. It was a successful campaign and a great addition to the 2022 competitive schedule.

Participation

Women and girls saw a nine percent growth from 2021 and a total of of 28,912 players participating, making promising signs for the women’s football. The FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 and beyond will be played in more inclusive environments thanks to the efforts of the Our Game Network Queensland, which was introduced during FQ's Super September.

The youth saw an increase in numbers as well, with a total of 38,876 young boys and girls participating in MiniRoos programs across Queensland in 2022. This saw a 7.6% increase in female MiniRoos registrations compared to 2021.

FQ partnered with Brisbane Roar and local clubs to deliver MiniRoos Kick-Off After School programs for girls in 2022. The initiative focused on engaging girls enrolled in Prep to Year 3 in the MiniRoos program, developing their love for football and supporting their transition from school to club football. This program was the key factor in increasing youth and in particular girls participation in the game.

Futsal

A record number of teams from across Queensland participated in the 2022 FQ Futsal State Titles, held in September at the Nissan Arena in Brisbane. The State Titles provided an opportunity for teams from across Queensland to come together to compete to become champions within their age group, and the overall champion club.

Sunshine Coast Wave were crowned the inaugural FQ Futsal Club champions in 2022, with points awarded across FQ’s major futsal tournaments and leagues including the Futsal State Titles, the F-League and the SEQ Futsal Premier League.

Inclusive

Football Queensland offer a variety of ways to ensure everyone can be involved in the sport, a great way to promote different types of soccer for all ages and skill levels. This includes walking football, beach soccer, Q-League and the National Para Football Championships.

Referees

The Protect Our Game project was introduced in April by FQ. Its goal is to prevent bad behaviour both on and off the field while fostering a healthy atmosphere and supporting behaviour within Queensland football. A state-wide Protect Our Game campaign was put in place, and implemented a three-strike regulation to fight referee abuse.

In line with FQ’s commitment to growing the number of referees within our game, 25 referee staff were appointed across each of the nine regions in Referee Coach and Development, Support, Mentoring and Training roles to strengthen the development of match officials in Queensland.

Referees are a crucial part of the game, with Football Queensland knowing how important they are and investing in referee development is a step in the right direction to produce more referees in the future.

Coaches

Football Queensland launched the FQ Coaches Club pilot program across South East Queensland, designed to provide additional support and development opportunities for community coaches.

With 7,763 registered coaches within the state and a six percent increase in female coaches, the FQ Coaches Club pilot program was beneficial in helping more coaches receive their licences.

Promoting the game

2022 was another hugely successful year of growth in Football Queensland’s digital broadcast reach as more than 820,000 unique viewers tuned in to the FQTV Match Centre launched this year.

Total unique viewers increased by 113% in 2022, demonstrating the huge level of interest and appetite for Queensland football content.

Football Queensland continues to work on developing all aspects of the game and increasing their numbers throughout the year.

To see the report in full, you can click here.

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Football Queensland has announced a partnership with McDonald’s as the statewide naming rights sponsor of the Football Queensland Premier League (FQPL) Men and Women competitions and its Official Quick Service Restaurant and Coffee Partner.

McDonald's were previously in a partnership with Football Queensland, dating back to 2010, where the aim was to invest into the sport at all levels on the Sunshine Coast.

Football Queensland CEO, Robert Cavallucci expressed his pleasure for what has been a strong long-term partnership with the fast food giant.

“This is an incredible opportunity to partner with such an iconic brand; McDonald’s have been proud supporters of football and Football Queensland is excited to expand the relationship across the state, delivering a range of benefits and opportunities for the football community,” he said in a statement.

“The Football 2020+ reforms have enabled these strong commercial partnerships which underpin Football Queensland’s commitment to delivering growth in the commercial sector to keep putting downward pressure on the cost of football for participants, which is key to achieving critical strategic objectives outlined in our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan."

In their 2023-2026 strategic plan, one of their four major pillars is named 'Unifying Football' in which the main ambition is to unite the game and unlock the sports' true potential in a bid to be more inclusive for people in less fortunate circumstances.

This is a great initiative set by Football Queensland that shows their heart lies where it should, with the grassroots game.

McDonald’s Australia Marketing Manager North East Region, Jessica Altmann, spoke highly of Football Queensland as a partner.

“Maccas are thrilled to be a partner of Football Queensland and are excited to officially support the great game of football,” she added via press release.

“We know that Maccas is already part of the football ritual, whether it’s stopping in on the way home from a game or the early morning McCafé run before taking the kids to their weekend games. It’s great to be taking it to the next level and proudly play an active role in communities across Queensland.”

Football Queensland will also provide marketing support for the McDonald’s annual McHappy Day event, a charity day with funds being raised for the Ronald McDonald House Charities to support families with seriously ill children.

This partnership opens up opportunities for McDonald's to leverage as well, with a promise to include benefits to participants.

Under this new partnership some regions across the state will have additional opportunities to participate in promotional activations, with more details to be released at a later date.' it mentions in the article announcing the partnership.

Overall, the collaboration has been a rather successful one for over a decade, providing huge support for the grassroots game in the Sunshine Coast, and the benefits coming out of this new upgraded partnership should provide a huge step forward regarding FQ's 2023-2026 strategic plan of attracting more participants.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have announced a radio partnership with popular Sunshine Coast radio stations Sea FM and Mix FM which will see them both provide broadcasting support across a range of big FQ events held within the Sunshine Coast.

The events included are: WinterFest23, FQ Junior Cup, the Pacific Club Championships and the FQPL 3 Sunshine Coast Grand Finals, running in-person activations with giveaways and broadcasting on air throughout the tournaments.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci explained via press release about his excitement for what the partnerships will do for the future of football in Queensland as a whole.

“This radio partnership is a very exciting announcement for all looking to attend the events on the beautiful Sunshine Coast; it is always great to bring these events to the community with the support of local businesses, optimising the fan experience,” he stated.

“I would like to extend my thanks to both Sea FM and Mix FM teams for their support and we look forward to welcoming them to our events as our Queensland football talent is put on show.”

In Football Queensland's Strategic Plan, set for the 2023-2026 period, the organisation listed Participants and Clubs as their first major pillar and focusing point on the overall growth of the sport in the state and the country.

Their main focuses, listed in the Strategic Plan are: "to be the most accessible sport in Australia where everyone can play anytime, anywhere." which they continued by mentioning their 'drive to improve participation retention & growth, especially amongst women and girls.'"

Group Marketing Director Brooke Papamanolis shared the same enthusiasm for the move.

“We are thrilled to support Football Queensland with their 4 major events coming to the region this year across both of our brands forging an alliance that will elevate the passion and excitement of football across the Sunshine Coast,” she added via press release.

“This partnership will extend far beyond the field, as we will work hand in hand to support Football Queensland through joint initiatives and events as well as assisting in fostering a sense of unity and belonging amongst the Sunshine Coast football community.

“We look forward to playing a role in the growth and development of football in our region and can’t wait to get out there with the kids of the Sunshine Coast!”

Especially in the Sunshine Coast area of Queensland, this is a fantastic initiative to encourage the next generation of kids to participate in Football.

Clearly for Football Queensland and Australia, creating the transition towards a more modern and upgraded framework for developing talent in this country is of upmost importance, and lifting standards to match the world's best is next on their agenda.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have announced the launch of the FQ Futsal Premier League in a significant overhaul of the ongoing FQ Futsal competition structure. 

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Paula Robinson has become the first ever female president of Football Queensland, following the governing bodies' Annual General Meeting over the past weekend.

“Paula boasts exceptional experience in sports governance as Chair of the Queensland Academy of Sport and General Counsel and Company Secretary for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee, and with her knowledge of the organisation as the former Deputy Chair, there is no more capable person to lead Football Queensland as we embark on one of the most exciting periods in the organisation’s history,” Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said. 

“As we strive towards FQ’s 50/50 gender parity participation target, the election of Paula as the first female President in the organisation’s 61-year history and the current 50/50 representation on the FQ Board reflects the unwavering commitment of the Board, management and FQ members to deliver our vision of the game, one that truly reflects our community and the incredibly bright future for football here in Queensland. 

“I look forward to working with Paula in her new role as President and the wider FQ Board.” 

“I’m delighted to be elected as President of Football Queensland and even more honoured to be the first woman to hold this role,” Robinson said. 

“I’d like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of outgoing FQ President Ben Richardson, who in his time with Football Queensland has done amazing work for the Queensland football community. 

“2023 will be one of the biggest years our game has ever seen, and I’m excited to work with my fellow Board Directors to continue building a strong legacy for football here in Queensland.” 

Appointed Director Matt McKay was also elected to the FQ Board of Directors at the 2023 AGM and will continue to serve on the Board as an Elected Director alongside Paula Robinson, Amy Chapman, Jackie Knight, Ross Thompson and Nigel Fanning.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has announced an extension of its partnership with Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers.

Gow-Gates brings a wealth of expertise and experience as one of Australia's leading insurance brokerage firms.

This strategic alliance features the Sport Insurance Programme from Gow-Gates, as well as access to additional services and assistance through their full suite of brokerage services, which includes workers' compensation and personal insurances that will strengthen and support the Queensland state's governing football body and community.

For over 50 years, Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers has provided tailored insurance solutions to individuals, businesses, and associations across Australia. Football Queensland benefits from the company's extensive experience in sports insurance. Gow-Gates recognises the unique risks and challenges that football clubs, players, and administrators face. They provide specialised insurance products to protect the assets, facilities, and participants in the sport ensuring stability for their stakeholders.

Founding Director for Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers, Anthony Gow-Gates, spoke about the partnership via press release:

“Gow-Gates are delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with Football Queensland, and we’re looking forward to fostering the growth of football in Queensland. We’re also pleased to provide the Queensland football community with access to a range of additional services through our association with Football Queensland,” he said.

Football Queensland has obtained access to a comprehensive suite of insurance products tailored to their specific needs. This includes coverage for player injuries, club property, and liability risks, among other things. Furthermore, the collaboration provides valuable educational resources and support to FQ clubs, coaches, and administrators.

The collaboration will work to deliver risk management workshops and seminars, as well as insurance best practises and compliance. These initiatives will assist local football organisations in effectively navigating insurance complexities and protecting their interests.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci added via press release:

“Developing commercial relationships such as this partnership extension with Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers showcases Football Queensland’s dedication to the ‘Unifying Football’ pillar of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan as it aims to drive efficiency, reduce cost and improve service levels to the grassroots experience. Gow-Gates is a leading insurance firm who has specialised and invested in our game for many years, and we are delighted to continue working with them,” he said.

The partnership between Football Queensland and Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers marks an exciting chapter for the football community in Queensland. By joining forces, both organisations can leverage their strengths and expertise to provide comprehensive insurance solutions and support to clubs, players, and administrators. This collaboration promises to enhance risk management practices, protect assets, and ensure the continued growth and success of football in the state.

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Business First Travel will be the new Official Travel and Accommodation Partner for Football Queensland (FQ) in 2023.

The corporate travel company based in Brisbane will be the Travel and Accommodation Partner for every FQ representative program and all the major events - including but not limited to WinterFest, FQ Academy carnivals, National Futsal Championships and the FQ Community Cup.

FQ employees, also including coaches, educators and administrative staff will have the option provided by Business First Travel, for corporate and leisure travel.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said via press release:

“Delivering growth in commercial partnerships such as this agreement with Business First Travel, is just one-way Football Queensland is reinforcing the ‘Unifying Football’ pillar of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan by forming these connections with the commercial sector.

“The partnership with Business First Travel will see improved administrative efficiencies through Zeno, the very latest cloud-based travel technology which is designed to be user friendly, and to ultimately achieve savings and deliver improved service.”

Business First Travel Executive Director Remy Koh said via press release:

“Our role is to play our small part to ensure football happens; from ensuring players, coaches and staff get to their matches well rested before kick-off, to stretching Football Queensland’s budget as far as possible, we will achieve this through our use of leading travel technologies, coupled with our team of expert travel managers who are also well versed in the niche requirements of groups and sporting travel.”

The corporate travel company offers services such as Travel Management, Airline and Hotel Perks, Private Charter, as well as Repatriation and Medical Travel.

Travel costs can amount to taking a significant hit to the budget of the company if not managed strategically. First Business Travel provides savings and risk reduction solutions.

To find out more about First Business Travel and its services, click here.

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Football Queensland has announced a football-centred TAFE at schools program, in partnership with TAFE Queensland.

TAFE Queensland is a leading provider of high-quality education and training in various vocational courses enabling students' careers to further grow the industries and the communities they serve.

The course, which is a part of the curriculum of TAFE Queensland's Academy of Sport, is intended to give aspiring football players the essential skills they need to succeed in pursuing coaching opportunities both inside and outside of the football arena. The initial intake for the program began early last month, in time for Term 1 of 2023.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said via a statement:

“The TAFE at Schools program is just one of the ways Football Queensland is implementing our commitment to strengthening pathways for improved player outcomes and developing higher standards for improved quality on and off the field,” he said.

“This program will provide participants with a professional pathway into football coaching, development and administration within community-based sports clubs and organisations across the Australian sporting industry.

“Students will have the unique opportunity to learn and develop at the home of football in Queensland, while Football Queensland will also provide access to football-specific foundation coaching training as part of the TAFE at Schools program.”

TAFE Queensland General Manager Brent Kinnane highlighted the importance of having a football-specific qualification for professionalising the game, in leading up to both the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Brisbane Olympics in 2032.

“The agreement with Football Queensland allows our students to work with professional football coaches while completing a coaching qualification,” he added via press release.

“Introducing a football-focused qualification that allows our students to gain the specific skills they need to meet the industry demands is a game changer at this important time in the history of our region.

“This will allow the students to enter and work in professional football, ensuring that football in Queensland can attract the highest quality players and support staff as we go for gold later this year and in the coming decade.”

Selected students will study at Football Queensland's headquarters in Meakin Park and the South Bank campus of TAFE Queensland, with the first intake of students currently enrolled in the program.

For more information about the TAFE at Schools program and TAFE Queensland visit tafeqld.edu.au.

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Football Queensland is running a bold ‘100 Programs’ initiative in conjunction with the Be23Ready campaign to encourage women and girls to get involved in the game, leading up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

Be2Ready is an ongoing campaign that anticipates the participation boom that the tournament will create, allowing clubs to be prepared for an influx of people looking to join a team.

It's not only welcoming newcomers, but retaining talent who can enjoy the sport for what it is.

Football Queensland CEO, Robert Cavallucci said via press release:

“FQ’s aim is to deliver 100 women and girls’ programs and initiatives to coincide with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 ‘100 Days to Go milestone’,” he stated.

“100 Programs is an ambitious target and showcases Football Queensland’s commitment to reaching the national 50/50 gender parity target by 2027, providing opportunities for our growing women and girl participation base to develop their playing, coaching and refereeing abilities.” 

Football Queensland Senior Manager – Game Development, Kate Lawson, added that she is excited to see the appointed community Be23Ready Women and Girls Ambassadors in action as they look to be key drivers of club's programs and courses. 

“Participating clubs can contribute any female-focused activation to the 100 Programs such as, come and try days, social events, Girls United introductory programs, or female-only coaching and referee courses within their community to not only create opportunities for female participation but build the excitement for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023,” Lawson said via press release. 

“The Be23Ready campaign was implemented to equip Queensland clubs with the tools to build more welcoming and inclusive environments for female participants; the 100 Programs initiative is a great opportunity for clubs to showcase this by finding ways to broaden their product offering to accommodate new and returning women and girls to the game.” 

Clubs are encouraged to join Football Queensland in sharing their photos from successful programs and activations on social media using the hashtags #Be23Ready and #100Programs.  

All participating clubs hosting any come and try days, carnivals or similar activations should submit their club and event information via the Football Queensland Sanction Request Form. 

Any club that completes all three actions of posting event photos with the relevant hashtags, filling out the sanction request form (if required) and completing the post event 100 Women and Girls Initatives Reporting and Feedback Form, will go into the draw to win a 2018 signed Matildas jersey.  

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Football Queensland (FQ) has announced the introduction of an FQ Academy Development Centre in the Sunshine Coast region.

The centre is based at the Maroochydore Football Complex and will deliver additional high-quality training sessions to complement club-based training for players aged 8-14 who are part of FQ clubs and competitions.

More Sunshine Coast players will be added to a talent pool that will only increase the depth of quality to come through and provides greater experiences to grow skills.

FQ Senior Manager – Club Development, Talent and Coaching, Alec Wilson, said via press release:

“The launch of the FQ Academy Sunshine Coast Development Centre stems from Football Queensland’s commitment to deliver best technical practices to strengthen pathways for improved player outcomes, as outlined in the FQ 2023-2026 Strategic Plan.”

“Creating clear pathways that are accessible to all players within our football community demonstrates Football Queensland’s dedication to strengthening the Australian football player development system, reinforcing the ‘Elite Teams and Pathways’ strategic pillar.

“The implementation of this new centre allows more Sunshine Coast players to join the FQ talent pool and provides junior and youth footballers outside of our FQ Academy Advanced licenced clubs with access to football experiences that enhance skill and game development.”

Program Details

• Maroochydore Football Complex
• Players born in 2009 – 2014
• Block 1: 23 April – 11 June
• Block 2: 16 August – 11 October
• $250
• Players receive a Kappa kit

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Football Queensland has confirmed the appointment of three new team members to maintain commitment towards achieving 50/50 gender parity of participants by 2027.

Three new team members have been added in the role of Officer – Participation (Women and Girls) as part of the expansion of Football Queensland's Game Development team.

These appointments have seen Leah Gubb join the team from the Northern region, while the two other new members, Sophia Stathoulis and Jess Austin, commence in the roles at Football Queensland’s Meakin Park headquarters to provide a brand new level of support for clubs and participants across every region. 

“2023 is an incredibly exciting year for women’s football with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 coming to our state, and the introduction of new roles such as these will prepare Football Queensland to meet the increasing demand of the rapidly growing women and girls participation base,” Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said via press release. 

“Expanding the Game Development team with a particular focus on female participation will allow us to continue to build upon the successes from the past and strive towards our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan target of reaching 50/50 gender parity by 2027.” 

Football Queensland Senior Manager – Game Development Kate Lawson, is excited to see the team expansion and the key part the trio will play in strengthening Football Queensland’s support of clubs, namely for the Be23Ready initiative alongside the state-wide rollout of the Girls United program. 

“These new team members will have a focus on female participation and the planning and facilitation of programs throughout Queensland, including MiniRoos, holiday clinics, Walking Football, and school and diversity programs,” Lawson added via press release. 

“With each of them starting on the field before progressing to these administrative roles, the appointments of Leah, Sophia and Jess are a fantastic example of where the game can take you, and we’re confident that they’ll bring great experience and knowledge to the roles.” 

With the Women's World Cup on the horizon, now is the time to capitalise on potential participation growth, which is set to boom from this major event.

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Football Queensland has confirmed a two-year addition to its partnership with Felton Industries, who have extended their time as FQ’s Official Shelter, Seating & Grandstand Partner and preferred supplier for the football community.

Felton Industries is Australia’s leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of quality Australian made outdoor furniture. With their backing for Football Queensland. they are making their mark within the state through custom designed grandstands as an example.

A family-owned business, Felton Industries only uses premium Australian aluminium to create robust designs for throughout Australia.

“The Shelter, Seating and Grandstands Facility Guide developed in collaboration with Felton and available on Football Queensland’s Club Support Hub is just one example of the invaluable support the partnership has provided Queensland clubs, with Felton offering a range of shade, bench and grandstand seating options suitable for all clubs and budgets,” Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said in a statement.

“To properly execute Football Queensland’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, there is a priority to ensure there are no barriers to participation and clubs are provided with access to high-quality infrastructure.”

The two organisations will look to roll out further advancements for the game, highlighted by the Shelter & Grandstands Facility Guide put together by Football Queensland in 2021, in conjunction with Felton Industries.

“The renewal of FQ’s partnership with Felton is an exciting opportunity to take the next step towards the target of 20 new enabling infrastructure projects delivered in Queensland each year as part of the Clubs and Participation pillar within the Strategic Plan,” Felton Industries National Sales Manager Gus White added in a statement.

“We are excited to renew our partnership with Football Queensland in 2023 as FQ’s Official Shelter, Seating and Grandstand Partner and preferred supplier. Adding seating and shelter to football grounds improves the overall experience for both players and spectators and helps football clubs grow.

“We are pleased to be able to work with FQ and football clubs throughout Queensland to provide facilities that further support the participation and enjoyment of football.”

You can view more on Felton Industries here.

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Football Queensland announced a key deal in time for the new season, with Hudl jumping on board as their analytics partner.

The state's top competitions of NPL Queensland and FQPL 1, who have completed their opening rounds, will receive ongoing match, team and individual statistics in 2023, allowing new levels of access for not only those clubs, but also the FQ Academy program and additionally Football Queensland's Senior Referee Panel.

Hudl is a global leader in performance analysis technology, providing support to more than 200,000 sports teams that range from grassroots and all the way to the professionals - allowing them to prepare and stay ahead of the wider competition.

A complete suite of video and data products assists coaches with the insights they need to get the most out of their players and discover extra bits of information they should be aware of. Hudl's top-of-the-range software is backed by six million users across over 40 sports, extending to hardware and services that include online coaching tools, mobile & desktop apps, smart cameras, livestreaming, wearables, analytics, professional consultation and more.

“This announcement follows the recent release of Football Queensland’s 2023 – 2026 One Football Strategic Plan and reflects Football Queensland’s ongoing commitment to club and player development as outlined in the strategy,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said in a statement on the day.

“As part of the Elite Teams and Pathways pillar, a focus area for Football Queensland is the expansion of education for Technical Directors, analysts and administrators with a digitalised education platform and a data analytics system across advanced senior premier leagues for talent tracking.

“NPL Queensland and FQPL 1 Men’s and Women’s clubs will now receive access to Hudl’s video and data solutions including match reports of their own games and the previous two games of their next opponent, summary team and individual reports and round and tournament reports in addition to access to Wyscout for player profiles and video footage.

“We’re delighted that our partnership with Hudl will deliver strong outcomes not only for clubs in our state’s top competitions but also for Football Queensland’s Senior Referee Panel and FQ Academy programs. Our aligned approach will allow for structured development with our technical staff and league wide benchmarking.”

Statistical reports will be provided on selected FQ Academy games to enhance performance tracking and monitoring already in place, as Football Queensland continues to strengthen development opportunities for players on the FQ Academy pathway.

“We’re proud to partner with Football Queensland and provide world-class solutions to help each club and its players maximize their potential, enhancing their understanding of performance through video and statistics, ensuring they never miss a moment,” Hudl’s Jonny Bickers added in a statement.

In addition, the partnership will connect with Football Australia’s referee analytics to provide state level reports while delivering game referee reports for officials in the NPL Queensland and FQPL 1 competitions.

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Football Queensland have bolstered the growth of football in the Northern Region, announcing a partnership renewal with Paradise Outdoor Advertising.

The decision will instigate several significant investments in the game, and see the company become the official rights partner for Brolga Park in Townsville, the region’s home of football, as the facility is set to be renamed Paradise Park.

Paradise Outdoor Advertising (or POA) was founded in 1983 in Airlie Beach in Queensland’s Whitsunday region. Four decades on, it has since grown to become Australia’s largest regional outdoor advertising company. Now based in Townsville, the main business hub for Northern Queensland, the company continues to be a family operated business. POA’s billboard locations span across the state, from the coast to its innermost regions, in over 1400 locations and seen by more than 11 million sets of eyes every day.

POA are among the few outdoor advertising companies that complete all their work “in-house”, from graphic design to construction, to the maintenance of the advertisement sites themselves. The company’s strategic focus centres on building long-term relationships with stakeholders, continuous improvement of their processes and systems and adding value to their customers and clients. Most recently, POA has become a pioneer in the digital advertising space, developing advertising signs that work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at Queensland’s regional airports and shopping precincts.

Football Queensland General Manager for the Northern Region, Declan Carnes, said via press release:

“We look forward to seeing the continued growth of football in Northern Queensland, particularly in the women and girls’ space whilst we prepare for a huge year of football with the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. With over 4000 registered participants in the region, we see this partnership as an amazing opportunity for our game.”

CEO of Paradise Outdoor Advertising, Mitch James, added via press release:

“POA is celebrating its 40^th year of business. We’re a local Townsville family business, and we’re delighted to continue our community involvement with this partnership with Football Queensland. Junior Sport is dear to us, and its great to be involved at a grass-roots level. Paradise Park is an expression of our support of Townsville and its strong engagement with football."

As Townsville's Home of Football, Paradise Park will play a key role in participation leading into the Women's World Cup. Home to other sporting codes, such as basketball, cricket and hockey to name a few, it is a great hub for people to train and play competitively.

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Football Queensland's annual State Referee Conference returns for 2023, which is set to be held on Saturday January 21 and Sunday January 22, 2023.

The state federation will be providing greater flexibility to view the conference, with a hybrid set up allowing those who are interested with adequate access.

Attendees are invited to join the in-person event at St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace or can also join Saturday’s sessions via an interactive virtual platform from one of 11 regional hubs. 

The 2023 Assessor Seminar will be held in-person on day two of the event, welcoming assessors and any referees who wish to mentor next year. 

“Ahead of the 2023 season kicking off, new and experienced referees from every level of the game across the state are invited to join us for the State Referee Conference which is always a highlight of the Queensland football calendar,” Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said in a statement. 

“After successfully hosting this year’s conference online due to the impacts of COVID-19, we’re excited to offer a new hybrid format for the State Referee Conference in 2023 to accommodate match officials in every part of the state. 

“For the first time, hubs will be created across all regions to allow local referees to attend the virtual version of the conference in a physical venue alongside their peers. 

“We’re delighted to be able to provide this opportunity for our Queensland match officials to come together in each region, not only to learn but also to build relationships and get to know each other ahead of the 2023 season.” 

Registrations for the physical event at St Joseph's College, Gregory Terrace will be snapped up quickly as only 200 spaces are available - metro-based referees are encouraged to register as soon as possible.

For those unable to attend the physical events hosted at FQ’s regional hubs, the conference will also be available to view from home via the virtual platform. 

Further information on the 2023 State Referee Conference guest speakers and agenda will be confirmed in due course. 

Register here to attend the physical event at St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace 

Register here to view the conference online from a regional hub or from home 

2023 STATE REFEREE CONFERENCE – REGIONAL VENUES

South Coast
Gold Coast Croation Sports Centre
181 Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Carrara QLD 4211 

Darling Downs
Clive Berghofer Stadium
47 Arthur St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350 

Sunshine Coast
Maroochydore FC
462 Maroochydore Rd, Kuluin QLD 4558 

Bundaberg 
Martens Oval
8 Ritchie St, Norville QLD 4670

Hervey Bay 
Fraser Coast Sports Precinct
Woods Rd, Nikenbah QLD 4655 

Gladstone
Philip Street Communities & Families Precinct (Maxine Brushe Meeting Place)
1 Pengelly St, West Gladstone QLD 4680 

Rockhampton  
Frenchville FC  
105 Clifton St, Berserker QLD 4701 

Mackay 
Mackay Football Park
Corner Heath Road and, Glenella Rd, Glenella QLD 4740

Townsville
Brolga Park
William Angliss Dr at Murray Sporting Complex, Annandale QLD 4814 

Mt Isa
Venue TBC

Cairns 
Endeavour Park
Mayers St, Manunda QLD 4870

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Football Queensland has partnered with World Sport Action (WSA), who will be the Competition Management software solutions provider for the 2023 and 2024 football seasons in Queensland.

The online competition management solution for World Action Sport is called Squadi, which is accessible online and also through Google Play and the App Store.

Squadi includes every set of arrangements of football competitions in Queensland, such as the following:

• Futsal
• Advanced Football Competitions (includes FQPL/FQ Academy)
• Community competitions (MiniRoos, Juniors, Seniors Divisional)
• Social
• Programs
• Referees

World Sport has adapted and modified Squadi to streamline all features of football in one single competition management system, such as referee appointments, fixture lists, results, standings, statistics, disciplinary functions, online team sheets and a match day resolution - eliminating unnecessary replication of effort for the clubs, participants as well as volunteers.

The Play Football program will continue as the National Registration System in accordance with the National Registration, Status and Transfer Regulations for the 2023 season under the agreement with Football Australia.

Removing the complexities from registrations in Play Football, those that are involved will be directed to Squadi for which they will create a profile to be used for online team line ups and also all other characteristics of the competition management system.

All payments counting Governing Body Fees for 2023 Football Queensland tournaments are compulsory for it to be paid online as it is part of the process for Squadi, in need of the selection of the specific competition or product by the participant, several options are available including that of the instalment payment plans.

Once the individual has completed a profile in Squadi and the competition product is selected, the entrant will then be permitted to compete in football in 2023.

FQ and WSA will be providing a means of entry to Squadi for all clubs this month, online training, troubleshooting along with user setup will be managed with the clubs all through this December and early January as Football Queensland and WSA deliver a series of events across the state together with workshops in each regional area.

Football Queensland will carry on with exploring opportunities for a user-friendly system and processes to further develop the users experience, and to make sure participants have easy access to football across the state.

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Designed to meet the targets and ambitions of a united, national strategy for the game, Football Queensland has released the 2023-2026 One Football Strategic Plan.

The purpose is to bring communities together through football and represent its vision as a leading football nation where everyone is inspired to live and love the game.

If the targets and ambitions of a united national strategy are to be successful, it is necessary to streamline the governance and administration and integrate critical strategic and operational functions and to support the execution of sport initiatives.

The transformation of moving towards an agile, modern, fit-for-purpose framework for football is in line with the international standards and best practices of sports governance in the country.

Football Queensland has dedicated its time and effort by working closely with Football Australia and other Member Federations to unify the sport behind a common purpose and a shared vision with a One Football pathway.

The Strategic Plan covers Football Australia’s vision detailing topics such as focus areas and measures of success across the four main pillars, providing the state of affairs from a national perspective while at the same time covering in-depth plans for implementation at the state level to delivering strong results for football in Queensland.

With the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, it is of utter importance that the next generation of female participants have a chance to be a part of the world game for which it will involve developing the right pathways, constructing the necessary infrastructure and increasing the support of clubs by delivering the right results in the states across the country.

The governing body of the state is bound to achieve 50/50 gender parity for participants, referees, committees and club officials by 2027. A key component is leaving a lasting legacy for future generations by welcoming the potential for all women and girls across all parts of the game, by giving the opportunity for all.

The four strategic pillars involved in Football Australia’s One Football Plan are Participants and Clubs, Elite Teams and Pathways, Fans and Unifying Football.

The first pillar’s ambition is to be the most accessible sport in the country where everyone can play any time, anywhere, with the focus areas ranging from driving participation retention and growth, especially for women and girls at the national level to evolving Football Queensland’s referee strategy and enhance the referee academy in the state level.

Football Queensland's key targets are:

• 328,000 registered participants
• 9,400 registered coaches
• 62,000 women and girl participants
• 3,600 registered referees

The second pillar priority is to reimagine the Australian development for its players by producing world-class teams, players, coaches as well as referees in the country to build capacity in strengthening pathways for improved player results by providing the best technical practice into clubs through an expanded academy of Football Queensland and a coordinated club development program at the state ambitions.

Football Queensland's key targets are:

• 20% national representation across all levels
• 15 Advanced Coaching Courses
• Home of Football project delivered before 2026
• 25 advanced female technical directors

National ambitions for the third pillar are to attract and increase an inspired fanbase who adore and devote their time and effort to Australian football properties, the focus areas involve enhancing the passion for the national teams and establishing modern products to drive fan engagement to organising new fan engagements around the current leagues, championships and competition products.

Football Queensland's key targets are:

• 15,000-seat capacity tier 2 stadium
• Convert passive fans to active
• Celebrating achievements
• Festivals of Football

Lastly, the aspiration of the fourth pillar is to unite the sport and to recognise the true potential of football not only in the state but in the whole country. By doing this the focus areas will be that administration will be improved in maximising operational efficiencies and governance will need to be enhanced to achieve greater alignment and focus of the national level to improving the football experience, supporting club development and unlocking the achievements of critical strategic objectives.

Football Queensland key targets are:

• Football first decisions
• Deliver an agile modern fit-for-purpose framework
• Reposition resources in administration
• Increase revenue and efficiencies

Football Queensland has and always will value respect, pride, integrity and unity at all levels of the game.

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In partnership with First Aid Accident and Emergency, Football Queensland has released its First Aid Guide to lend a hand for the clubs across the state to provide secure conditions from the participants to the spectators.

The First Aid Guide includes all the relevant details for match day requirements, with an automated defibrillator packages and also management plans for incidents.

It cannot be stressed enough that clubs are urged to have a First Aid Officer whose responsible in delivering first aid at competitions and training.

The First Aid Officers are also in charge of having a fully stocked and serviced first aid kit/s, stretchers, ice for injuries and maintained AED/defibrillators ready to be used.

First Aid Officers are a key component of training sessions and wherever their teams play at, with plans in place. Should an incident occur, processes and procedures assist with members and patrons having a safe place to attend.

“We’re delighted to launch our First Aid Guide today to provide clubs with an additional level of support ahead of the 2023 season, including recommendations on first aid personnel, equipment, processes and procedures to keep members of our game safe,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said in a statement.

“It has been fantastic to draw on the expertise of First Aid Accident & Emergency to develop this tailored guide for clubs across the state, and we look forward to continuing to work with them to help our clubs deliver safer environments for all participants.”

First Aid Accident and Emergency Director, Scott Whimpey, added via press release:

“As Football Queensland’s official First Aid & Defibrillator partner, we’re delighted to have supported FQ in the development and launch of the First Aid Guide for Queensland clubs at every level of the game.”

“There are simple measures that can make a big difference when it comes to managing a potentially harmful or life-threatening situation, and we’re hopeful that the First Aid Guide will provide clubs with the knowledge to put these measures in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the game.”

To see the full version of Football Queensland Club Support First Aid Guide, click here.

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The Australia Cup has officially reclaimed its magic in 2022. Sydney United’s gripping 3-2 win over Brisbane Roar on Sunday saw them become the first state league side to book their place in the competition’s final, while Oakleigh Cannons will become the second if they can defeat Macarthur on September 14.

Interest in the Cup hinges on the romance of the ‘Cupset’, a feat which both Oakleigh and United (twice) have achieved this campaign. That it is possible for a group of players to beat another despite skewed scales of professionalism and resources, is the charm that makes the competition unique in Australian sport.

What is less revered about the success of state league clubs, but is both more important and difficult than winning, is the work done by the clubs off the field when partaking. Take the Cannons, for example. Their 'reward' for beating Brisbane City and moving into the quarter-finals against Sydney FC was a $12,000 bill.

“To host Sydney, immediately we faced issues with our lighting,” Oakleigh president Stan Papayianneris told Soccerscene.

“Lighting needs to be 500 lux for an A-League club (as per Australian Lighting Standards), so straight away there’s $12,000 that you have to add. That’s on top of everything else that you have to provide as a minimum.

“We probably made a little bit more from hosting Brisbane City than Sydney. Operating costs will be the same against Macarthur, so hopefully we get a marginally larger crowd which will make it more beneficial. 

“The weather is supposed to be good, and being a semi-final versus a quarter-final it’s had a bit of media exposure. Hopefully our crowd increases by 25-30%, and it will be worthwhile.”

Adelaide City also experienced the variant challenges that come with hosting A-League opposition as opposed to state league this season. City edged Logan Lighting in a home clash at Marden Sports Complex, before welcoming Adelaide United to the larger SA Football Centre in a night for South Australian football purists.

City president Greg Griffin explained the second clash was profitable due to high ticket sales (host clubs keep 100% of gate takings up to and including the semi-final stage), but that structural challenges within the competition make the experience otherwise tricky.

“There’s a whole range of imposts that make being in this competition very difficult. It’s expensive, so you have to be very careful about what you spend and get your budgeting right. You can lose $10-15,000 in the blink of an eye, which NPL clubs cannot afford,” Griffin told Soccerscene.

“I think Football Australia needs to recalibrate the requirements on NPL clubs. You can’t impose all the costs of broadcast - certain lighting capacity, infrastructure for extra cameras - on the clubs. If we play an A-League team, surely they should pay for that.

“Football Australia needs to take a reality pill and see that the idea is to encourage NPL teams to be involved, not make it an event they’re financially fearful of.”

Peninsula Power have become well versed in putting on an Australia Cup show this season, welcoming all of NWS Spirit, Green Gully and Sydney United to A.J. Kelly Park.

For the Power and their president Craig Feuerriegel, the difference between hosting A-League and state league sides is dramatic; the attention that came with the visits of Melbourne City (2017) and Brisbane Roar (2021) justified the use of nearby Moreton Daily stadium, holding a capacity 11,500.

“We did raise money this year playing at home at A.J. Kelly, but not as much as we would have playing an A-League side at the bigger stadium. We put in quite a significant effort when hosting games there’, Feuerriegel told Soccerscene.

“With a better facility comes the chance to increase revenue if you’re willing to work at it. The more people you can get through the gate the more you can raise, as well as matchday raffles and selling corporate seats.

“There is a downside to that as well with increased cost for the stadium, and when you host an A-League side Football Australia’s rules say you must have certain requirements around medical access, ambulances, and security. So the level does go up in your outgoings as well.”

Like Oakleigh and Adelaide City, the Power’s home ground tenancy agreement with their local council allows them to play extra matches at A.J. Kelly Park on top of their league fixtures if required, so there is no financial punishment in progressing through the Cup in that regard. 

Feuerriegel speaks highly of the Cup experience, where he’s thrilled that players, fans and sponsors can taste a variety of opposition and national attention not possible within the Queensland NPL. He does admit that they’re yet to confront the significant challenge of travel, having never been drawn away in their five matches.

“We certainly weren’t disappointed when the home draws came out, but we have been in it for a number of years now and haven’t drawn an away game. This year I was on board with it. I thought if we do get an away game we’d be happy to support the group to play away and hopefully get a result,” he said.

Papayianneris would like to see Football Australia increase support for travelling sides, which currently includes flights and accommodation for one night as part of a broader travel subsidy. The Cannons were unfazed by their July trip to Bonnyrigg on the park as 5-0 victors, but Papayianneris acknowledges the toll on semi-professional players is significant.

“To negate all the factors that could make you lose a game, you really need to sleep there the night before. If you do that with a group of 25, you’re up for at least $12-15,000.

“If you run with what Football Australia provides, it’s a bit of an impediment to getting the team into the right state to play.

“We rolled with the punches against Bonnyrigg, travelled to New South Wales and played on the same day and won, but it was difficult. It would be good if they could provide two day’s accommodation from next year, as a suggestion.”

Papayianneris states the financial burden of lighting and travel means qualification for the Cup is not a priority for the club, but a bonus on top of their league focus. The current level of prize money is also too low to act as an incentive for the Cannons to strive to qualify, on offer from the Round of 16 onwards.

“I don’t think the prize money comes into it. Even if we were to win, the $50,000 is not an amount you’d steer your efforts towards trying to win. If we’re to lose the semi-final and get a prize of $10-15,000, it would just help us recoup some of our losses,” he said.

‘We’d like to continue playing in the Cup going forward. We’ve had a reasonable amount of exposure which is good for our players, the club, and the local community. But if you happen to draw a couple of away games, it starts to become problematic.

In contrast, Feuerriegel outlined consistent qualification for the Cup is a ‘KPI’ of the Power, while Griffin stated he and City coach Paul Pezos share ‘complete agreement’ that annual Cup participation is essential to the growth of their club.

“As a club we go to the best young talent we can find in South Australia. One of the things we offer is extremely good coaching under Paul and his team, but also that we’ll work very hard to make the Australia Cup to allow them as players to be showcased,” Griffin said.

“A lot of people watched our game against United, and let me tell you a number of our team have received calls from around the country. It’s a very clear target that we have, that we take the Cup very seriously because we want to win it, and to give our talented juniors a chance to shine.”

Despite the financial cost he may be counting, the magic at the Cup’s core is will and truly burning within Papayianneris. While it may still need tweaking there is no doubt it’s roared back to life this season, it’s first unabated post-covid, and the Cannons and United are right in the mix for its flagship success.

“Anything’s possible, everyone has two legs and two arms. If we could get through to the final, we’d play a state league side, there could be a red card to them in the first minute… a lot can happen in a game of football,” Papayianneris said.

“If Greece could win the 2004 Euros, maybe Oakleigh can win the Australia Cup.”

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Football Queensland will celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and clubs at every level of the game as part of the 2022 Football in Queensland Awards.

A new integrated state-wide format for the 2022 season will see award winners recognised at regional level, across a number of categories before representing their region as nominees for the equivalent awards at the state level - to be presented at the Football in Queensland Awards Night.

“2022 has been an incredibly exciting year for football here in Queensland as we’ve seen the roll-out of connected competitions, providing brand new opportunities for players and clubs across every region as part of the Future of Football 2020+ reform implementation,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said in a statement.

“As we continue to unite the game across the state, Football Queensland is delighted to recognise the fantastic achievements of participants and clubs across each of our regions at local Grand Finals, before our highest achieving community winners are celebrated at state level at the Football in Queensland Awards Night.

“2022 will see a number of new awards presented at community level in each region, including the Protect Our Game Service Award for an individual and club and Service to Football Gold and Platinum Awards.

“In line with the introduction of the connected football pyramid, we’re also excited to present brand new awards at state level recognising the achievements of those from advanced competitions across Queensland including awards for Junior Player of the Year, Academy of the Year and Technical Director of the Year, among others.

“After another challenging year for all involved in our game with seasons extended across many parts of the state due to the weather, we’re looking forward to acknowledging the hard work and achievements of members of our football community, from players to coaches, volunteers and referees, with the 2022 Football in Queensland Awards.”

Nominations are now open for the Community and Service to Football Awards which will be presented at regional level, before winners go on to represent their region as nominees for the state awards.

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Football Queensland has announced the arrival of Alex King, a member of the FIFA Panel of International Referees, to the FQ Referee team as a coach and mentor for the remainder of the 2022 season.

The current A-League Men’s Referee of the Year and FQ Referee Academy Coach has already commenced work in his expanded role, delivering his first coaching session to 25 top panel referees earlier this month.

“It is fantastic for our referees here in Queensland to have the opportunity to learn from one of the country’s most experienced officials, who himself is a product of the Football Queensland referee pathway,” FQ General Manager – Referees, Clubs and Community Dan Birrell said in a statement via Football Queensland.

“Having recently returned from the 2022 AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers, Alex will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the role as he works with our more advanced match officials in a coaching and mentoring capacity throughout the remainder of the season.

“This is in addition to Alex’s role as FQ Referee Academy Coach, where he is helping to develop our next generation of young Queensland match officials.

“Our state has a strong history of producing some of the country’s top referees including Alex, so we’re excited to have him on board to help mentor those who are officiating in our advanced leagues.”

Upon joining up with Football Queensland, Alex King stated via Football Queensland:

“As a former NPL Queensland referee myself, this is a great opportunity for me to help guide the officials who are members of the state’s top panel and support them as they continue to progress on the referee pathway not only here in Queensland but hopefully also at a national level.

“Alongside my involvement with the FQ Referee Academy, I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experiences with a broader range of Queensland referees as I take on this new role with Football Queensland.”

Earlier this week King took charge of the friendly match between English Premier League sides Manchester United and Crystal Palace in Melbourne, and will be back in action next week for Heidelberg United FC and Brisbane Roar FC’s Australia Cup clash.

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Football Queensland has announced the launch of Be23Ready to coincide with the July 20 FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 One Year to Go milestone.

The initiative is designed to help Queensland clubs create more inclusive and welcoming environments for female participants.

The milestone was celebrated at Brisbane Stadium with representatives from Football Queensland and Football Australia, Queensland Government, the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 team and young Queensland players.

“The biggest global women’s sporting event coming to our shores in 2023 represents a huge opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for our game,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said in a statement via Football Queensland.

“Football Queensland has recorded significant growth in female participation over the last two years, and with the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ on the horizon there has never been a more crucial time to develop pathways and opportunities for even more women and girls to join our game.

“With participation numbers continuing to surge in the lead-up to the tournament, the Be23Ready initiative has been designed to equip clubs across the state with the tools to build more positive, welcoming and inclusive environments for female participants across all areas.”

Football Queensland Manager – Participation Women and Girls Kate Lawson added via Football Queensland:

“Football Queensland is committed to supporting our clubs at all levels of the game to not only prepare for an increase in female participation, but also to deliver high quality experiences for all club members to ensure we keep women and girls engaged in our game.

“As part of Be23Ready, we’re providing all clubs in Queensland with a Club Assessment Resource designed to help them identify areas for improvement and create an environment for female participants to thrive.

“To assist clubs in the completion of the resource, we will be delivering a series of Be23Ready webinars and are planning an FQ Club Road Trip to provide further on-the-ground support to clubs including tailored gender equity training.

“Football Queensland is also urging every club across the state to nominate a passionate club member to be their Women & Girls Ambassador to drive the club’s progress and work closely with FQ in the lead-up to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

“We’re excited to support our club members through this process as we work together to help our clubs across Queensland Be23Ready.”

Find out more about Be23Ready here.

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Football Queensland has confirmed that they are set to deliver seven MiniRoos coaching courses across the state, designed to increase the diversity and representation of qualified community coaches in the state.

Following completion of the course, all attendees will have fulfilled the first step in becoming a Casual Participation Officer who can deliver after school programs and Sporting Schools programs.

Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci acknowledged the importance of increasing representation and opportunities for First Nations peoples.

“Representation of First Nations peoples across all areas of our game is integral in ensuring football remains the game of choice for all, for life,” Cavallucci said via a statement to FQ.

“Currently only 177 coaches in Queensland identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander despite more than 3,200 First Nations players participating in Football Queensland competitions.

“The aim of these upcoming coaching courses is to provide an opportunity for our current Indigenous participants and other members of their communities to become upskilled in a new area of the game so that we can welcome more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in community coaching roles across Queensland.

“We’re thrilled to be able to deliver MiniRoos coaching courses across seven of our regions from Far North and Gulf to the South Coast, which will be free for both new and existing participants and will be delivered in conjunction with the host clubs.

“We also encourage clubs who are interested in running a similar community coaching course of their own to register their interest with Football Queensland.”

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Football Queensland will deliver the Sunshine Coast’s first ever Football Australia/AFC B Diploma course throughout 2022 and 2023.

Commencing in August at Buderim Wanderers FC, the course will be held over four in-person blocks which will be split across two venues, Buderim Wanderers FC and Maroochydore FC, in addition to four online sessions.

“Football Queensland is delighted to confirm the details of the region’s first ever B Diploma course in a major step for coach development on the Sunshine Coast,” FQ General Manager – Central Coast Region Andy Allan said via the FQ press release.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates FQ’s commitment to providing more development opportunities for coaches at all levels, not only to improve the experience for our participants but to support the growth of the game throughout the state.

“The delivery of the first B Diploma course on the Sunshine Coast is an exciting milestone for our region and for our local coaches who now have a fantastic opportunity to gain even more skills and experience.”

FQ Senior Manager – Club Development, Talent & Coaching (Central Coast), Alec Wilson added via press release.

“Football Queensland is looking forward to further expanding our delivery of coaching courses throughout the regions with the confirmation of a B Diploma course for Sunshine Coast participants.”

“The delivery of the course provides a valuable opportunity for local coaches who have previously completed their C Diploma to take the next step on the coaching pathway, so we’d encourage all coaches who are interested in progressing their development to register for the upcoming B Diploma course.”

View the dates of the Sunshine Coast B Diploma course below.

Register for the course here.

In-Person Blocks
Block 1
August 26, 27, 28 2022
Buderim Wanderers FC

Block 2
February 10, 11, 12 2023
Buderim Wanderers FC

Block 3
April 14, 15, 16 2023
Maroochydore FC

Block 4
July 14, 15, 16 2023
Maroochydore FC

Online Modules
October 11, 25 2022
November 9 2022
December 5 2022

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Following the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Sunday, 12 June, Football Queensland has released their 2021 Annual Report.

The state’s governing football body was able to deliver a full season of football across all Queensland competitions in 2021 and reported a 41% growth in female participation, despite having to navigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

FQ’s ongoing focus on referee support and development led to the introduction of a number of new initiatives throughout the year including the appointment of seven Referee Coach and Development Officers state-wide, resulting in significant growth particularly in the number of registered female referees which increased by 55%.

A record number of coach development courses and workshops were also delivered throughout 2021, including 19 new club development sessions, as FQ recorded a 21% increase in registered coaches across the state.

In a letter addressed to the state’s football community, FQ’s Chief Executive Officer Robert Cavallucci acknowledged the efforts and successes of those essential to the growth of the world game in the state.

“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank all members of our Queensland football community for your support throughout 2021,” Cavallucci stated.

“2021 was a particularly significant year for female football as we celebrated the centenary season of the women’s game. FQ was delighted to mark this special milestone with an event at the Gabba on the 100-year anniversary of Australia’s first public women’s match which was held right here in Queensland. The release of Football Queensland’s three-year Women and Girls Strategy titled ‘Unlocking The Legacy’ and the launch of the inaugural Kappa Women’s Super Cup tournament also coincided with centenary season celebrations.

“The year also marked a major milestone in the reform journey as we turned a focus to the implementation of the Future of Football 2020+ reforms following the release of the Recommendations Paper in March. In a momentous day for football in Queensland and representing another step towards the implementation of Football Australia’s ‘One Football’ model, the Future of Football 2020+ constitutional reforms were passed with overwhelming support in August.

“A brand new level of support was delivered to clubs and volunteers across the state in 2021 as we launched the highly regarded and well supported Club Support Hub which provided a single destination for clubs to access tailored guides and accompany webinars, retention and recruitment strategies and graphic design assistance.

“On behalf of Football Queensland I’d like to acknowledge the support of Football Australia and the Local and State Governments throughout 2021, a year which marked the eighth consecutive surplus for the organisation.

“Thank you also to the members of our football community across the entire state who contribute to our beautiful game both on and off the field; I look forward to seeing many of you around the grounds in the months to come.”

The full 2021 Annual Report can be downloaded here.

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Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed the exciting details of a female-only C Diploma course, which is set to begin this November.

The course will kick off at The Lakes FC on Friday, November 25 and will be just the second ever female-only C Diploma held in Queensland.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci expressed his excitement at the announcement of the course.

“As the growth of the game is underpinned by the quality and number of our coaches, Football Queensland is committed to supporting that growth by improving education and development opportunities for coaches across the state,” he said in a statement to FQ.

“With the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 approaching, there has never been a better time to embrace the potential of our female coaches here in Queensland by delivering tailored development opportunities specifically for those who are looking to progress into a more advanced coaching space.”

FQ Club Development Ambassador – Head of Coaching Davide Bertamini added the course is a fantastic opportunity for female coaches to gain new qualifications, while also providing a launchpad for future courses to be held across the state.

“The C Diploma is a crucial aspect of the AFC/Football Australia pathway and provides the necessary foundation to improve upon all technical aspects of the game,” he said via Football Queensland.

“Providing high-quality education opportunities for our female coaches is essential to the growth of our game which is why we are committed to delivering more female-only coaching courses not only this year but in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

“We’re excited to host Queensland’s second ever female-only C Diploma course later this year, and will also be introducing new measures to assist female coaches in the transition from community level coaching to the next stage of the coaching pathway.”

The female-only C Diploma course will be held across several days beginning in November 2022 and finishing in March 2023.

Registrations can be made via the link here.

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Football Queensland has confirmed the re-election of Jackie Knight and Ross Thompson to the FQ Board of Directors following the Annual General Meeting held at Meakin Park on Sunday, June 12.

Knight is a senior financial executive with a reputation for providing strong commercial management and financial stability, efficiency and compliance in business. Currently focused on business consulting, she boasts expertise in transformation, process design and development, and profit maximisation.

Thompson is Group CEO of PeopleIN, the largest ASX-listed workforce management and staffing company in APEC. He has led in a wide range of multi-national corporate, sporting and military environments and built sustainable and profitable professional service operations in Australia, Asia and Africa.

“Football Queensland’s 20 members endorsed stability and continuity in re-electing both Jackie and Ross, having already made significant contributions to the game’s governance here in Queensland in their capacity as Board Members,” FQ President Ben Richardson said in a statement via FQ.

“The FQ Board is confident that they will continue to play an instrumental role in the growth and development of our game, bringing valuable experience and expertise across a range of business areas as we work towards further uniting football in Queensland.”

Following their re-election, Knight and Thompson will continue to serve on the FQ Board of Directors alongside Ben Richardson, Paula Robinson, Amy Chapman, Nigel Fanning and Matt McKay.

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Football Queensland has announced the launch of the FQ Coaches Club, a brand new initiative designed to provide additional support and development opportunities for community coaches.

Upskilling more coaches to give them greater chance of success in local and community clubs is a priority of FQ and football across the country.

“Improving accessibility of coach development opportunities is crucial in order to support the growth of the game, especially at the community level,” FQ General Manager – Football and State Technical Director Gabor Ganczer told Football Queensland. 

“Coaches play a primary role in shaping the experiences of participants, so the FQ Coaches Club will not only benefit the coaches involved by providing them with an additional level of support but will also ultimately lead to better outcomes for community clubs and players.” 

FQ Club Development Ambassador – Head of Coaching Davide Bertamini echoed Ganczer's statements.

“The FQ Coaches Club provides a valuable opportunity for community coaches, Club Coach Coordinators and those who have recently completed a C Licence to gain extra advice and support, with a key focus on session design and delivery,” he said to Football Queensland.

“The informal workshop format of the FQ Coaches Club will allow coaches in attendance to be grouped in order to receive tailored guidance based on the age and level of the players they’re coaching.  

“Coach developers from Football Queensland and from various clubs will deliver the FQ Coaches Club sessions in a pilot program across South East Queensland before the program is expanded into regional parts of the state. 

“We look forward to welcoming coaches from across the game to our upcoming sessions which kick off next week.”

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Football Queensland (FQ) have announced that Gow-Gates Insurance Brokers will remain the Official Insurance Partner of the organisation.

The renewed partnership ensures that Gow-Gates will continue to provide the Sports Insurance Program whilst also offering additional services to FQ members.

“We’re excited to continue our partnership with leading insurance firm Gow-Gates, who have invested in our game over many years,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci said to Football Queensland.

“The Sports Insurance Program is a first-class program that provides our football community with a range of cover under various policies, whilst maintaining the affordability of registration.

“To make the process even easier for our Queensland participants, Gow-Gates has launched an updated football specific web portal that includes FAQs on the insurance program as well as the process for making claims.”

Founding Director Anthony Gow-Gates acknowledged the mutual benefit that the partnership has provided for both parties.

“Gow-Gates has a long history of partnering with Football Queensland, and we’re looking forward to continuing to provide support services to the Queensland football community through the Sports Insurance Program,” Gow-Gates told Football Queensland.

“We’re also pleased to provide participants across the state with access to a range of additional services through our continued partnership with Football Queensland.”

In addition to the Sports Insurance Program, the partnership provides FQ members with access to Gow-Gates’ full suite of insurance broking services, including business and organisations, workers compensation and personal insurances.

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Football Queensland has released a Club Referee Guide to assist clubs in delivering a safe, inclusive environment for club referees and to support the retention of match officials across the state. 

The Guide outlines valuable information for clubs across a range of relevant areas - including club referee recruitment, the role of the club referee coordinator, processes for appointments and providing opportunities for further development and incident management.  

“We’re excited to launch the new Club Referee Guide to assist clubs in building a strong foundation for their club referees,” Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said. 

“Club refereeing is the first step in the referee pathway and is therefore a crucial aspect of recruitment and retention as we know that the growth of our game is underpinned by the quality of our referees. 

“This guide will assist clubs in providing a safe and inclusive environment for their club referees that encourages them to serve the game at a club level and beyond.  

“In line with the recent appointments of new referee development staff across Queensland, Football Queensland is continuing to focus on providing education and development opportunities for all referees across the state.  

“The release of the Club Referee Guide also reflects FQ’s commitment to providing stronger support to clubs by equipping them with the tools to nurture and develop their referees.”

FQ reported a 37% increase in referee registrations in 2021. This included a 55% increase in registered female referees, with courses delivered to over 1000 participants.

The FQ Strategic Plan aims to have 2200 registered referees by the end of this year.

To view the Club Referee Guide, you can find it here.

Football Queensland has also developed a range of accompanying templates to assist clubs in managing referees which can be accessed here. 

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Musgrave Soccer Club has become the latest beneficiary of Football Queensland's Community Heart Program.

The scheme provides life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to the FQ community, helping to ensure the safety of match-goers and staff in case of a heart-related emergency.

Hitting their fundraising goal on Tuesday, the club joins Sunshine Coast FC, Galton Redbacks, and Robina City Soccer Club in reaching their target, passing $2,499 in total donations.

It's a point of pride for President Michelle Shultz, and an achievement the club is celebrating.

"Everyone was really pleased," Shultz told Soccerscene.

"It’s something you hope that you never have to use but it’s something we wanted to make sure we had. All the members were really supportive and wanting to help achieve it."

It has been reported that every year, over 33,000 Australians go into cardiac arrest. Many of these cases occur without immediate access to a hospital or medical care, and only an estimated 9% of people survive.

Having access to an AED increases the likelihood of survival by up to 600%. The program aims to increase the whole community's safety and keep those numbers low.

"You not only think of your own members, but the entire football community," Shultz said.

"You hope you never have to use it but if you do, you’ve got it there to help anyone in the community. It’s a good feel that you can help out.

"The program includes 15 people to be trained in your club at a free cost to learn how to use it. It’s something that has brought it to our attention - that we should have more people who understand how to use CPR and things like that. We’re also organising a first aid course in our club at the moment."

Shultz encourages every other club still raising money to keep up their efforts.

"Every general meeting we’ve had, we’ve mentioned that if everyone could support it, every cent could save a life," she said.

"We had plenty of members either range from $10 to over $100 donated. It’s making people realise that you don’t have to donate $50.

"If you have 300 members and everyone put in $10 that’s $3000 straight away. It’s not like everyone needs to have a huge amount, but it’s something that can help. If it can save a life, how important is it?"

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Football Queensland is delighted to confirm the return of the state’s largest junior football carnival, with the announcement of WinterFest22.

Delivered in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council and Visit Sunshine Coast, WinterFest22 will be held at Maroochydore FC from Wednesday, 6 July to Sunday, 10 July with over 100 junior boys and girls teams participating.

"Following the success of the inaugural event in 2021, WinterFest22 will once again welcome players and families from across the entire state for the largest football carnival of the year," Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said.

"Over 5,000 attendees including more than 2,000 players will come together for five days of football fun for the whole family, with MiniRoos and Walking Football sessions running alongside the junior matches and providing an opportunity for everyone to get involved.

"We’re excited to partner with Sunshine Coast Council and Visit Sunshine Coast to deliver this event in the region, and look forward to welcoming members of our football community to the beautiful Sunshine Coast this July.

"In addition to enjoying the on-field action, families travelling from both regional and South East Queensland will be able to explore the many visitor attractions as part of their visit to the region for WinterFest22."

Sunshine Coast Council Economy Portfolio Councillor Jason O’Pray outlined the council was a huge supporter of pathways development for up-and-coming players across many sports, particularly with the region likely to host several sporting events during the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games including football.

"Our region hosts national and state level events like WinterFest to showcase our beautiful region, with a key draw card for event organisers and participants being the many attractions to keep families busy in between competition days," he said.

"Supported by council through the Major Events Sponsorship program, our accommodation and tourism providers are set to welcome the many thousands of football visitors expected over five days of WinterFest."

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Football Queensland has announced greater investment into referee development with the expansion of new refereeing roles across the state.

25 referee staff have been appointed across each of the nine regions in Queensland - in Referee Coach and Development, Support, Mentoring and Training roles.

Football Queensland President Ben Richardson acknowledged that the appointment of the new roles would be essential in continuing the strengthening and development of match officials in Queensland.

"Football Queensland has highlighted the need to continue expanding referee development as the game continues to grow across the entire state," he said.

"The recruitment of these highly respected, well experienced match officials for these roles including FIFA Referee Misuk Park reflects our commitment to improving the quality and standard of refereeing at every level of the game, with the new team members to provide additional support to the local referee community in each region.

"By appointing various new referee team members across each region in Queensland, we are continuing to invest in providing high-quality, accessible football experiences for all participants, regardless of their geographical location."

See the full list of new staff appointments below.

Football Queensland

Daniel Taifalos: Officer – Referee Support

South Coast

Dion Bradley: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Maria Roughley: Officer – Referee Support

Daniel Larney: Officer – Referee Support and Mentoring

Metro

Brad Burton: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Misuk Park: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Darling Downs

Trevor Jacobsen: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Frank van den Berg: Officer – Referee Support

Sunshine Coast

Marsh Camille: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Alinda Vanderharst: Officer – Referee Support

Wide Bay

Cody Schiemann: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Kris Cobbin: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Central Coast

Sam Williams: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Tori Bartlett: Officer – Junior Support (South)

David Perna: Officer – Junior Support (North)

Whitsunday Coast

Trevor May: Officer – Referee Coach and Development and Junior Referee Support

Northern

John Cassidy: Officer – Junior Referee Support

Mike Marano: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Graham Buzzi: Officer – Training and Senior Referee Support

Jason Ireland: Officer – Training and Senior Referee Support

Far North & Gulf

Martyn Tilley: Officer – Referee Coach and Development

Peter Hazelden: Officer – Senior Referee Support

Chris Doherty-Fisher: Officer – Senior Referee Support

Natalia Bambino: Officer – Referee Support (Mt Isa)

Schools

Jim Bellos: Officer – School Referees

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Football Queensland’s 2022 State Coaching Conference will be conducted online on Sunday, May 22.

The conference will feature local and international guest speakers from across the game, giving coaching representatives from all over the Sunshine State and all levels of the game to access the event through a new interactive virtual platform.

Presentations will include topics relevant to coaches from the grassroots to elite football in both the men’s and women’s game.

In addition, attendees will receive Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points for their coaching accreditation revalidation.

“We’re excited to confirm the details of the 2022 State Coaching Conference, which will welcome well-respected coaching figures both from Australia and abroad as special guest speakers,” FQ State Technical Director Gabor Ganczer said.

“The 2022 conference will feature a range of presentations relevant to coaches from the grassroots to advanced level in both the men’s and women’s game, with all attendees to receive Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points for their coaching accreditation revalidation.

“Football Queensland is committed to providing high-quality development opportunities for all Queensland coaches, so we’re pleased to be able to deliver the State Coaching Conference online this year for the first time, allowing participants from across the state to hear from the special guest speakers regardless of where they’re located.”

Early bird registrations are now open until Friday, April 22.

Register for the State Coaching Conference here. 

Further information on guest speakers will be announced in the coming days.

2022 STATE COACHING CONFERENCE

Date: Sunday, May 22, 2022

Time:  9am – 5pm

Cost:  $79 early bird

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To all members of our Queensland football community, 

After two years of unprecedented challenges and interruptions to our game with the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, in recent weeks we’ve once again found ourselves coming together to work through a significant crisis as a sport and as a community. 

As the water recedes and we prepare for the return of football in many regions from this weekend, it is poignant to reflect on the devastation caused by the recent flood event across a huge number of our football clubs in the South East Queensland and Wide Bay regions. 

It has been personally heartbreaking to see the hard work of dedicated volunteers washed away in just a matter of days. Many of you may not be aware of the true scale of devastation, especially for those whose clubs have been lucky enough to escape significant damage. 

Football Queensland has been working closely with clubs to assess the impact of the recent flood event and is continuing to learn more about the severity of damage inflicted, primarily across South East Queensland. 

So far, Football Queensland has identified 102 clubs who have been affected by flooding; this includes 90 fields inundated with water, 42 club changeroom buildings and 37 clubhouses heavily damaged, 21 clubs with damaged machinery and 21 clubs with damage to their field lighting, with many still yet to be assessed. 

All parts of our game have been impacted, with FQ’s own headquarters at Meakin Park submerged in two metres of floodwater for many days and the clean-up only able to begin in the last week.  

Our focus has remained on supporting our clubs through this time as we know they have lost the most. Run by volunteers who dedicate countless hours to prepare fields and maintain clubhouses and facilities each week, sustaining damage of this magnitude is absolutely devastating for clubs and their members. 

It was a pleasure to welcome Will Hastie and Alex Davani from Football Australia to Queensland this week to discuss support and recovery efforts while visiting some of the clubs and facilities who were heavily impacted.  

Football Queensland launched a dedicated Flood Support Hub in the wake of the flood event, providing a go-to place for clubs to seek assistance from the football community, find information on fundraising and relevant funding opportunities, and connect them with volunteers willing to help in their clean-up efforts. 

The Flood Support Hub is also providing clubs with access to relevant webinars and helpful resources from our partners to help them get back on their feet, and will continue to be updated as more resources become available.  

With the support of Football Australia, Football Queensland wrote to the Queensland Premier advising of the impacts of the flood event being experienced by so many of our clubs and seeking assistance in football’s recovery efforts. We were delighted to hear the Queensland Government announcement just days later of disaster recovery funding being made available for sporting organisations, and encourage all impacted clubs to apply for funding of up to $20,000 via the Queensland Government website once applications open. 

We have also been working with both the State and Federal Governments and relevant local councils to accommodate a return to football as soon as possible, and we’re delighted to have been able to get many competitions back up and running across the state from this weekend. 

We understand that even those clubs and participants not directly affected by flooding have been impacted in recent weeks as we’ve been forced to postpone fixtures at all levels of the game in certain regions, and we thank you for your ongoing patience and cooperation. 

Whilst our focus remains first and foremost on supporting our clubs and volunteers who still have a tough road ahead of them, we are also excited to get players at every level of the game back out on the park in many regions from this weekend onwards. We know this will lift the spirits of so many across our game who have been personally impacted by the flood event. 

It has been truly incredible to see our football community band together over the last few weeks to provide support wherever it was needed. Whilst the sport is what unites each of us, it is the unwavering community spirit off the pitch that makes football the beautiful game. 

As we continue to navigate the ongoing challenges of flood recovery alongside many of our clubs, the resumption of competitions this weekend is a timely and welcome reminder that even in the hardest of times, football will always return. 

Ben Richardson
President
Football Queensland

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Football Queensland have unveiled the new FQTV Match Centre, a fresh website which will host every match streamed by the governing body in 2022.

“Football Queensland was the largest content provider of all Member Federations in Australia last year by a significant margin, broadcasting 711 games live and on demand for viewers not only in Queensland but also for a national and international audience,” FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci stated. 

“2022 will be an even more exciting year for competitions at every level of the game as we see the implementation of the connected football pyramid across the state and the continuation of Cup competitions with the Australia Cup and the Kappa Women’s Super-Cup.  

“We’re looking forward to expanding our digital broadcast reach again in 2022 as we showcase some of the country’s best talent across our competitions on the FQTV Match Centre, which is set to further raise the profile of our Queensland leagues and draw the eyes of even more fans. 

“Football Queensland is continuing to work closely and collaboratively with Football Australia, the commercial rights owner of the National Premier Leagues (NPL), in the establishment of a national aggregated content platform from 2023 onwards. 

“We’re committed to working together to develop a suitable and sustainable content and commercial solution to strengthen the coverage of our game across the country in 2023 and beyond.” 

All broadcast matches will also be shown live and on demand on Football Queensland’s YouTube channel for the 2022 season, with feature matches continuing to be broadcast on Football Queensland’s Facebook page every weekend.

In addition to showcasing live and on demand match content every week, the FQTV Match Centre will also feature highlights packages and other relevant FQ video content. 

The FQTV Match Centre can be accessed here.

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