Inspired by the excitement of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 and the Matildas' success, over 21,000 more women and girls now play football. This means there are now over 158,000 women and girls playing football in Australia.
The 2024 National Participation report showed a 10 per cent increase in outdoor football participation and highlighted an 11 percent increase in overall football participation numbers.
This increase makes football the most participated team sport in the country with over 1.9 million Australians now participating in football.
The Australian Government's Play Our Way Program is also playing a big role in supporting grassroots football initiatives. Funding for facilities, participation and equipment initiatives is creating more opportunities for women and girls to engage in football.
There are many ways to get involved in playing football. One of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 tournament legacy initiatives Mini Roos for Girls continues to drive participation, and inspire the younger generation across the country.
Women’s Asian Cup 2026 fast approaching
It’s less than one year to go until the Women's Asian Cup 2026 is hosted in Australia, and excitement is building. The Matildas will be striving for success in front of a home crowd, as the tournament brings together 12 of Asia’s top women’s national football teams.
Photo credit: Copyright Alexis Scholtz / Adobe Stock