Australia’s national women’s football team, the Matildas, will now receive match and commercial payments, aligning them with their male counterparts, the Socceroos. This change comes as part of a new four-year collective bargaining agreement (CBA) announced by Football Australia (FA). The agreement aims to enhance the revenue-sharing model that was previously in place, following a period of remarkable success for both teams.
In recent years, the Matildas and the Socceroos have achieved significant milestones on the international stage. The Matildas won the hearts of the nation with their impressive run to the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup, held on home soil in August. Similarly, the Socceroos were celebrated for their performance in reaching the last 16 at the men’s World Cup in Qatar.
Under the new CBA, both the national men’s and women’s teams will benefit from enhanced payments based on a scaled revenue-sharing model. Match fees will account for 70% of the total, while the remaining 30% will come from an annual commercial payment. This approach aims to reward success and ensure that players share in the commercial growth of the national teams.
The Matildas will also receive equal treatment to the Socceroos in terms of match preparation. This includes having the option of single rooms at all team gatherings and the provision of business class flights for international travel. Furthermore, accommodation for players who are mothers will now be available for children up to the age of four, an extension from the previous age limit of two.
In addition to these player-focused benefits, the new agreement allocates 5% of the revenue generated by the national teams to fund youth programs. Football Australia has also committed to providing a guaranteed contribution to the Past Players Programme, run by the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA). Moreover, FA will develop a human rights policy to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to the sport.
James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, expressed his enthusiasm for the new CBA, highlighting that it represents a commitment to progress and a promise to reward players as the revenue base of the national teams flourishes. The agreement is a testament to the importance of acknowledging and valuing the contributions of players, both on and off the pitch.
Socceroos midfielder Jackson Irvine, who is also the president of the PFA, praised the agreement, stating that it ensures the national team players have everything they need to excel in their performances. Furthermore, Irvine emphasized the possibility of making a significant impact beyond the field of play.
The new collective bargaining agreement between Football Australia and the players’ associations signifies a significant step forward in gender equality and equitable treatment for male and female football players. By providing equal opportunities and recognition, this agreement aims to foster continued success for the national teams while empowering players to thrive on and off the pitch.
