Football Queensland launches Protect Our Game initiative

Protect Our Game Initiative

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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Football Queensland and SW Brokerage begin new partnership

In an announcement made on Tuesday, Football Queensland revealed that SW Brokerage will become their new Official Financial Wellbeing Partner.

A partnership for on and off the pitch

By collaborating with SW Brokerage, Football Queensland now has an immensely experienced and knowledgable partner capable of pushing them towards their financial goals.

Football Queensland CEO, Robert Cavallucci, revealed his confidence that such an alliance will bring huge benefits to clubs and participants in Queensland.

“We’re delighted to welcome SW Brokerage to support our participants across the state to better understand the financial products and services they can benefit from through tailored financial education guides, articles and webinars,” Cavallucci said via official press release.

“As a Residential, Commercial and Business brokerage, SW Brokerage provides services for a variety of clients from first home buyers to commercial loans, SMSF lending and more, and bring a wealth of knowledge for our football community to tap into.”

As Football Queensland continues to form partnerships which can maximise growth and sustainability in the seasons to come, it is no wonder why bringing SW Brokerage on board is seen with such pride.

 

The foundations for a sustainable future

News of collaboration between SW Brokerage and Football Queensland represents another huge milestone for Football Queensland’s future.

In the last two months alone, Football Queensland revealed three partnership agreements, all of which reflect an ambition to support long-term growth across the region’s football pyramid.

  • Restore Function Physiotherapy – Official Physiotherapy Partner
  • BildGroup – Official Infrastructure and Surfacing Partner
  • SW Brokerage – Official Financial Wellbeing Partner

Additionally, if Queensland’s football community is to lay the foundations for future generations of players, coaches and industry leaders, partnerships of this nature will be essential.

They are not established as simple, short-term collaborations, but are effective alliances which can bring real benefits to all involved in the region’s football community.

About SW Brokerage

With over 100 years of combined experience, SW Brokerage is a trusted team of experienced professionals offering help and guidance with a multitude of financial solutions.

They offer services across residential, commercial, business, SMSF, medical and construction lending. However, despite their obvious financial prowess, they also valuable a personal approach. The team ensures that processes are simple and tailored to their clients needs and financial goals.

For more information about SW Brokerage, click here. 

Football Victoria Announces 2026 Country Championships To Be Held in Geelong

Football Victoria (FV) is delighted to confirm that the 2026 Football Victoria Country Championships will be staged in Geelong from June 6-8, 2026.

Over three days, the state’s top regional footballers will compete at Stead Park and Myers Reserve, home to Geelong SC and Geelong Rangers.

The Championships enter their second year under FV’s direct management. This marks the first event since the new regional football model launched in December 2025. Last year, Albury-Wodonga set a new standard. The event drew 4,000 visitors, 69 teams, and more than 1,200 players from across Victoria.

This year, eight regions converge at Geelong. Players, coaches, officials, and families will gather for one of the most anticipated tournaments in the competition’s 40-year history. The Championships remain central to FV’s talent identification strategy. Regional players have a prime opportunity to impress FV’s Talent ID team.

Regional Development Manager Lauren Stevens said she is proud to oversee the event for a second year. “This is the biggest annual celebration of regional playing talent. We’re thrilled to bring the Country Championships to Geelong in 2026,” Stevens said. “With great venues and strong support from the City of Greater Geelong, Football Victoria Geelong, Geelong SC, and Geelong Rangers, this will be an enormous event. We look forward to welcoming every region for a special weekend of football.”

CEO Dan Birrell highlighted the Championships’ vital role for regional football and the FV talent pathway. “This tournament remains one of Victoria’s longest-running football events. It’s a key pillar in our talent identification program. I look forward to celebrating another outstanding Championships with the regional football community.”

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