Football Australia faces lawsuit from Socceroos and Matildas players

The Professional Footballers Australia (PFA), acting on behalf of the Socceroos and Matildas, has launched legal action against Football Australia in the NSW Supreme Court. The dispute involves a multi-million dollar claim regarding a revenue-sharing agreement established under a 2023 collective bargaining agreement.

The PFA is reportedly seeking access to confidential documents to determine if the governing body is properly fulfilling its financial obligations to national team players. It is understood that the players are pursuing a seven-figure sum, with arguments suggesting that funds intended for player revenue shares may instead be being attributed to grassroots football.

Under the current agreement, players are entitled to an 18 to 20 percent portion of relevant finances related to the national teams, including ticketing, kit sales, broadcast, and sponsorship contracts. Football Australia has acknowledged the dispute, stating it relates to a third party in connection with a separate matter currently before the National Dispute Resolution Chamber (NDRC). A spokesperson noted that the Supreme Court’s role is limited to the subpoena process.