FFA releases NCR findings

Download a PDF of the National Competition Review

FFA hopes the findings of the report will improve the quality of Australia's footballers.

“Throughout this process, we have consulted with the football community and listened to what our various stakeholders have had to say.

“These reforms will allow us to seize some great opportunities and to address a number of important issues in the football community.

The five main outcomes of the NCR are:

1. Evolution of the Elite Player Pathway to

:: recognise the important contribution of state-based elite clubs

:: address gaps in the Talented Player Pathway

2. Definition of competition windows and participation requirements to

:: Extend the duration of the season in critical stages of player development

3. Introduction of an Elite Club Licensing program to

:: increase the quality of youth development practices

:: develop better coaches

:: require clubs to explain their fee structure and ensure that fees are reasonable and not excessive

:: regulate the role of player agents and private academies

:: improve club governance and financial reporting

4. Introduction of a Player Points System to

:: correct unsustainable player payments in State League competitions

:: promote local youth development within the club team structure

5. Revision of Training Compensation regulations to

:: Reward clubs which achieve accreditation

:: Increase the flow of revenue to elite state league clubs

“Importantly, State League clubs will receive greater recognition for the work they do,” Buckley said.

“These outcomes will also support the development of the Hyundai A-League as an even higher standard of young players emerge from the states to grow the entertainment appeal of the competition by improving the quality of play on the pitch.”

“Like other important initiatives including Small Sided Football, the National Curriculum and National Football Development Plan, I am certain we will look back upon the National Competition Review as having been fundamental to achieving our vision of Australia becoming one of the leading football nations in the world.”