Football Tasmania welcomes funding increase from state government

Football Tasmania has welcomed an increase in annual operational funding from the state government.

The funding will put football’s share of the pie on par with other major sports in the state, including cricket and Australian rules.

The figure is reported to be $500,000 per year.

“On behalf of the entire football community I would like to thank the Government for recognising the benefits the world game brings to Tasmania and giving football a fair go,” FT CEO Matt Bulkeley said.

“Official Sport Australia statistics show close to 40,000 Tasmanians play football each year, and EMRS polling reveals one-in-five Tasmanian households are directly involved in the world game.

“As Tasmania’s most played team sport, it’s great to see football receive a fairer level of government funding in line with other major codes.

“Football has always been an important part of the community, but what we’ve seen in recent years is an explosion in participation numbers, putting us at a disadvantage compared to other sports when it comes to providing everything our large player base needs.

“This funding will put us in a better position to make sure anyone who wants to play football can play, increasing opportunities for Tasmanians to enjoy a healthy and connected life through sport.”

Mr Bulkeley explained that the funding announcement has come at an exciting stage for football in Tasmania, with the possibility of training camps and matches to be held in Launceston for the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

“Women’s football has a strong history in Tasmania, and thanks to the hard work of so many dedicated individuals across the state, continues to thrive,” he said.

“Being able to put our best foot forward as we prepare for having elite football on our shores will help us maximise the legacy benefit an event like the World Cup could bring to Tasmania, especially for women and girls.

“Ultimately, this will assist Football Tasmania to reach our long-term goal of achieving a fifty-fifty participation split between male and female players and complete gender equality in football, cementing the world game’s place as Tasmania’s game.”

Image credit: Football Victoria

The Celebrating Ability event will take place at The Home of The Matildas on Saturday, December 6.

The event promises an interactive day of learning and connection, featuring group workshops, the launch of Football Victoria’s new Disability Football Framework, and club education sessions with Aspect to promote inclusion across all levels of the game.

The Celebrating Ability event will offer a completely free, in-person opportunity for clubs to explore the space and take part in the celebration of the International Day of People With a Disability (IDoPWD).

The day will include:

Launch: Football Victoria will officially unveil its Disability Football Framework on December 3

Workshop: Clubs can learn how to start and run an All Abilities program

Education Session: Delivered by Football Victoria’s partners, providing practical guidance and support

Engagement: Attendees will gain insights from guest speakers and have the opportunity to connect with other clubs, coaches, and administrators

Event Details

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025

Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm

Where: The Home of the Matildas, Sports Drive, Bundoora, 3083

Registration: Registration is required. Please use the link below to secure your place

This event offers an excellent opportunity for clubs across Victoria to engage, learn, and celebrate ability. Clubs are encouraged to share this opportunity with anyone who may be interested.

Image credit: Macarthur Bulls FC

Macarthur Bulls FC has confirmed the beginning of a two-year strategic alignment with Alvaro Logistics Group, who will join the Club as a Senior Partner.

Under the agreement, Alvaro Logistics Group will serve as the official back-of-short sponsor, with its logo prominently displayed on the Bulls’ Isuzu UTE A-League Men Home and Away kits.

Alvaro’s support highlights a shared dedication to growing the game and creating positive opportunities within the community. Through this partnership, the club will engage more closely with locals, support programs that nurture participation and talent, and champion initiatives that bring fans closer to the heart of the club.

Founded in 1978, Alvaro Logistics delivers Contract Management and Warehouse Solutions through a custom-built fleet, offering tailored services that drive fast, effective results. Their expertise is proven through long-term collaboration with clients across industries such as steel, FMCG, plumbing, and container handling, supported by comprehensive distribution facilities.

Mario Alvaro, Director of Alvaro Logistics Group, stated that the company is proud to join forces with a club that embodies its values.

“Macarthur Bulls FC represents the heart and ambition of South West Sydney,” he said via press release.

“As a local business, we’re passionate about giving back to the community that’s supported us for so many years. Partnering with the Bulls allows us to contribute to programs that inspire the next generation and bring people together through football.”

Mark Jensen, Chief Commercial Officer of Macarthur Bulls FC, said the partnership represents mutual interests to driving meaningful growth and impact in the region.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Alvaro Logistics Group to the Bulls family,” he said via press release.

“Alvaro Logistics Group are a proudly local business with deep ties to South West Sydney, and their support will help us continue growing football from the grassroots up. This partnership is about more than sponsorship – it’s about investing in people, community, and opportunity and supporting a team the is truly invested in its South West Sydney.”

Through their joint efforts, they will foster participation, support regional development, and deepen the bond between the club and its supporters.