Image credit: Football NSW
As the 2026 grassroots season begins, Bankstown District Amateur Football Association (BDAFA) commenced a series of initiatives to underline the importance of community, youth participation and inclusivity.
Accessible, affordable, enjoyable
The work of BDAFA highlights the core values which uphold grassroots football in Australia.
Bringing the community together, creating inclusive environments, and keeping the game affordable are all at the forefront of recent initiatives.
As a result, the 2026 season promises to be a huge success for all involved – from players to volunteers.
“At the heart of everything BDAFA does is our community,” said General Manager, Leanne Millar, via press release.
“This season, we’re proud to be keeping football affordable for our children and creating competitions where everyone feels welcome to be part of the game.”
The vision to ensure football remains accessible – whether socially or financially – is behind BDAFA’s work. Providing free footballs for kindergarten students, and capping registration fees for 6 and 7-year-olds at $50 highlight the organisation’s commitment to the grassroots landscape in the region.
Creating a home for all
Moreover, supporting drives to increase participation in the local community – from young people to Over-35s, is the recently established Bankstown “Home of Football.”
But while a multi-purpose facility and synthetic pitch are welcome additions to the local infrastructure, their value goes far deeper.
The “Home of Football” is not just a venue for the game itself, but a place where all can come together through a shared love of football.
“The development of Bankstown’s Home of Football is one of the most significant milestones in the association’s history,” continued Millar.
“The synthetic pitch has been in use for the past three years, and now, with the completion of the building, we have a truly multi-purpose venue that will serve not only our football community but the wider community as well.”
Grassroots is the foundation of the game we love.
Thankfully, BDAFA is making sure it has a sustainable and successful future ahead.
