Football Victoria praise the success of the Oromo Soccer Tournament

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Passionate football fans gathered in Melbourne earlier this year for the Oromo Sports Federation Australia’s (OSFA) Oromo Soccer Tournament, an annual event which has been looked back on by Football Victoria as a resounding success.

Originally set to take place in July 2020, the tournament was delayed due to enforced lockdowns and restrictions invoked by the COVID-19 epidemic. The event ended up taking place at Kensington’s J.J. Holland Park between December 30th and January 2nd of this year.

The OSFA represent the Oromo diaspora in Australia with the intention of fostering a communal connection in Melbourne and across the country. The Oromo people are a group who hail predominantly from Ethiopia and Kenya, countries where football is undoubtedly the number one sport.

Featuring teams Victoria-wide, the tournament brought together a huge contingent of enthusiastic football participants and fans, all of whom relished the opportunity to come together through a celebration of culture and a shared love of the game.

The tournament’s running was a testament to Football Victoria’s dedication to promoting diversity and multiculturalism, as the state’s footballing body provided equipment such as match balls, bibs and other gameday items which ensured the event’s organisers were well supported and prepared.

OSFA President Fatah Harun was delighted by the tournament’s outcome, acknowledging Football Victoria’s assistance in assuring that the tournament could go ahead.

“We really appreciate Football Victoria’s hard work, commitment and dedication to helping the Oromo Sports Federation’s soccer tournament. It was a huge success, especially with the COVID-19 restrictions in place,” he said.

“We thank Football Victoria for everything you have done. Our community was delighted and we cannot wait to work with you in future endeavours!”

Football Victoria’s Executive Manager of Growth & Inclusion Karen Pearce extended her congratulations and praise to the Oromo Sports Federation, whilst promising continued support of the tournament in the future with the intention to see it grow.

“Football Victoria is proud to be able to play a small part in this tournament as it reflects our core values of being an inclusive sport, as well as providing football pathways for people from the Oromo Australian Community,” she said.

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NSW Government opens $4.65 million Local Sport Grant Program

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Image Credit: Football Australia

The NSW Government has opened applications for the 2026–27 Local Sport Grant Program, with up to $4.65 million available to support grassroots sporting organisations across the state.

The program will provide grants ranging from $2,000 to $20,000 for incorporated not-for-profit sporting clubs and associations.

Funding is aimed at increasing participation, improving governance and enhancing community sporting facilities.

Applications opened on 27 July and will close at 1pm on 24 August 2026, with successful applicants expected to be announced in December 2026.

The Local Sport Grant Program forms part of the NSW Office of Sport’s ‘Everyone Plays Here’ strategic plan.

The plan is designed to strengthen community sport by supporting initiatives that encourage regular participation and improve long-term member retention.

Funding is also available for projects that reduce barriers to participation and create more inclusive sporting environments, particularly for women and girls, multicultural communities, people with disability, First Nations people and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

In addition to participation initiatives, the program will support projects that improve the financial sustainability and governance of community sporting clubs, while also investing in the quality, adaptability and environmental sustainability of sporting facilities across New South Wales.

Successful projects must be completed by June 2028, with applicants required to meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the program guidelines.

The NSW Office of Sport has encouraged eligible organisations to submit applications before the closing date, with grants awarded through a competitive assessment process.

Mark Bosnich to headline Queensland Football Convention

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Image Credits: Football Australia

Mark Bosnich will bring his experience from the highest levels of football to the Queensland Football Convention in Brisbane this October. The former Australia international will headline the event as a featured speaker. He will take part in an exclusive Q&A session focused on his career and life in the game.

Bosnich will offer an honest look behind the scenes. He will discuss his time under Sir Alex Ferguson, his Premier League career, and the challenges of reaching the top. The session will also explore Australian talent pathways. Bosnich will share his views on the opportunities available to young footballers and what aspiring players need to succeed.

Premier League experience on show

Bosnich built a career across Australia and England. He played in the Premier League and represented some of the biggest clubs in the competition. His career included spells with Manchester United, Aston Villa and Chelsea. He also represented Australia at international level.

His insight will add value for leaders and developers of football in Australia.

Queensland football takes centre stage

The Queensland Football Convention will run from October 9 to 11 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. The event will bring together football figures and industry professionals for a celebration of the game.

Bosnich’s appearance adds another major name to the convention program. More speakers and information will be revealed soon, including who will join Bosnich to discuss the key pillars of growth, sustainability and technology in the sport. The event will also provide a platform for conversations about the future of football in Queensland and Australia.

Tickets available now

Organisers are encouraging fans to secure their places ahead of the event. Early-bird tickets will end in less than two weeks, making now the time to plan their visit to the Queensland Football Convention.

With Bosnich confirmed as a featured speaker, the Queensland Football Convention is set to offer a rare opportunity to hear directly from an Australian football figure with extensive Premier League experience.

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