Football Coaches Australia (FCA) extend support for PFA Past Players Program members

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Former Australian professional footballers wishing to pursue a career in coaching will be provided additional support through the PFA’s partnership with Football Coaches Australia (FCA).

Members of the PFA’s Past Players Program will have their joining fee for FCA waived, providing developing coaches with access to coaching-specific resources and services such as professional coach development, contracting standards and legal advocacy.

The initiative is a result of the partnership between FCA and PFA established in 2018 and built on a commitment to driving the highest standards of professionalism in Australian football and collaborating on professional development opportunities for elite players and coaches.

FCA is the official association for Australia’s qualified football coaches which represents and prepares professional coaches.

Key benefits of the FCA membership are access to the FCAXV Essential Skills program, encompassing modules on leadership, resilience, communication, emotional intelligence and culture, in addition to PD programs, which attract FA Licence CPD points, a comprehensive national psychology service and financial guidance.

A standard contract and independent grievance procedure for coaches is currently being pursued in discussions with Football Australia.

FCA’s Executive Committee member, former A-League Men’s player and PFA Alumni, Terry McFlynn, said:

“There is a common purpose across the PFA and the FCA, with many of our members being former players occupying or pursuing opportunities within coaching in Australia.

“Given this common ground, and our shared desire to support those entering the next phase of their lives, it is a natural fit for us to work together to support the next generation of Australian coaches, alongside the PFA.”

PFA Co-Chief Executive Beau Busch said:

“There is one certainty in our members’ lives and careers; that their playing days will eventually come to an end. Our responsibility is to ensure they are not only supported during their careers but have developed adequate skills in areas of interest and that there are opportunities available to them after they hang up the boots.

“We know that transitioning into any new field or profession is challenging so having a partnership with the FCA ensures that our past players know they will be supported by both the PFA and the FCA if they choose to embark on a career in coaching.”

Since 2018, the PFA and FCA have maintained a close working relationship between players and licensed coaches, with the latest offer demonstrating a commitment to ensuring players are supported after their playing careers. The organisations cooperate on a range of issues impacting Australia football including:

  • collaborating on professional development opportunities for elite players and coaches at all levels of the game from grassroots to professional competitions;
  • seeking solutions to challenges and barriers to football through collaboration and consultation;
  • working with stakeholders to protect children and youth footballers within an elite sporting environment; and
  • ensuring that elite training environments across the country provide a positive experience and give due regard to the holistic development of coaches of players
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GIS Sydney connects students with Australia’s sporting industry

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Image Credit: Global Institute of Sport

The Global Institute of Sport (GIS) is giving students new opportunities to build careers in Australia’s growing sports industry. Combining academic study with direct access to sporting organisations, venues and industry professionals. Based at Allianz Stadium and the Sydney Cricket Ground, GIS Sydney places students at the heart of Australia’s sporting landscape. The campus gives students the chance to study while surrounded by major sporting organisations and events, creating a direct connection between education and the industry they hope to join.

Students also benefit from regular access to experienced sports professionals. More than 50 guest speakers have shared their expertise with GIS students, including representatives from FIFA, Red Bull, Cricket Australia and the AFL. These sessions give students a valuable insight into the different roles and career pathways available across the sports sector. GIS Sydney delivers programs including Sports Analytics and International Sports Business in partnership with the University of Newcastle. The courses combine academic learning with opportunities for students to develop practical skills that they can take into the workplace.

Industry experience forms another important part of the student journey. GIS provides students with 140 hours of relevant work experience, allowing them to apply their knowledge in professional settings. Students have secured placements with organisations including the Professional Football Scouts Association, Football Coaches Australia and Basketball NSW.

GIS also works with Yakka Sport to create paid employment opportunities for students while they study. This allows students to gain workplace experience while developing professional networks within the sporting community. The opportunities extend internationally, with GIS Global Sports Summits giving students access to sporting organisations and venues in destinations including London and Miami.

For students pursuing careers in sport, GIS Sydney is creating a pathway that combines education, practical experience and industry connections. By bringing students closer to the people and organisations shaping the sector, GIS is helping the next generation turn their interest in sport into professional opportunities.

Active Club Program offers South Australian football clubs a funding boost

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Image Credits: Shutterstock 2327752993

South Australian football clubs can tap into another round of government support, with the Active Club Program offering grants of up to $3,000 to help clubs improve participation and strengthen their local communities. The Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing (ORSR) opened its new round of funding on the 28th of August. Clubs have until midday on Wednesday, 14 October 2026 to apply.

The grassroots benefits

The South Australian Government has allocated $1.448 million to the round. Clubs with fewer than 100 members can receive $1,500. Clubs with 100 or more members can receive $3,000. The program targets grassroots sport, including football. It helps clubs purchase equipment and resources that make participation easier and more affordable.

Football clubs can use the funding for sporting equipment, uniforms and protective gear. They can also fund playing venue maintenance equipment, professional development, medical equipment and training. The program also supports projects that improve inclusion. Clubs can use grants for positive health initiatives and hardship subsidies. These measures can help remove barriers that stop people from playing sport.

That focus creates opportunities for football clubs to support more women and girls. It can also help clubs create more welcoming environments for players of different ages and backgrounds. Water and energy efficiency also form part of the program. Clubs can fund eligible initiatives that reduce water use or improve energy efficiency. That could prove particularly valuable for football clubs managing local playing venues and facilities. The program also allows minor club infrastructure upgrades and technology that directly supports participation or club sustainability.

Who is eligible?

To qualify, a club must operate as a not-for-profit sport or active recreation organisation in South Australia. It must have at least 20 members and have operated for at least 12 months.

ORSR will also consider a club’s participation profile when assessing applications. The assessment looks at female and male junior and senior participation, alongside factors such as the club’s affiliation and when it last received Active Club Program funding.

How to apply

The funding can make a direct difference at grassroots level. In the previous round, 558 South Australian clubs shared more than $1.4 million. The government says the investment helped clubs meet essential costs while supporting participation and inclusion.

For football, that support can stretch beyond the playing field. Stronger clubs create more opportunities for players, coaches and volunteers. They also provide places where people can build connections and stay active. Applications for Round 56 will be screened in November, assessed in December, with clubs notified in January 2027.

To learn more about the South Australian Active Club Program, visit their website.

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