Football Australia is proud to recognise the findings from the Australian Sports Commission’s latest AusPlay survey, which confirm football’s ongoing popularity among Australians and highlight broader trends in physical activity across the nation.

The 2024 data shows football as one of Australia’s most-played sports. The survey, which collected data from July 2023 to June 2024, indicates that football is the top-ranked participation sport and has a higher participation rate compared to other team sports such as basketball, netball, and Australian rules football. This trend is consistent across various age groups, with particularly strong engagement among children and adolescents. The data highlights football’s significant role in promoting physical activity and community engagement nationwide.

The AusPlay survey, now with a sample size of 40,000 Australians due to its recent shift from phone to online methodology, provides a comprehensive look at sports participation across the country. The results reveal that 84% of Australian adults are active, with many choosing to engage in sports and exercise in more informal settings, such as individually or with family and friends, rather than through structured organisations.

James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, commented: “The AusPlay findings reaffirm football’s place at the heart of Australian sport. These participation numbers speak to football’s inclusivity and its power to connect people of all backgrounds, genders and ages, whether they are new to the game or lifelong fans. I want to thank the entire football community – including our Member Federations, the A-League clubs, all the community clubs around Australia, the participants, and the countless volunteers – who contribute so much to our game’s success and growth.”

The report highlights that football’s appeal continues to be strong among youth, with high levels of engagement across children and teenagers, reflecting the success of initiatives like Coles MiniRoos, which introduce children to football in a supportive and enjoyable environment. Furthermore, the recent achievements of the CommBank Matildas and Subway Socceroos at FIFA World Cups, have played a significant role in inspiring participation, drawing in new players and fans alike.

Football Australia’s Club Changer program, in partnership with the Australian Sports Commission, has been instrumental in helping community football clubs thrive by building sustainable, inclusive, and well-supported environments. Through this program, local clubs receive resources and guidance to improve governance, expand their volunteer base, and increase engagement within their communities. Club Changer supports clubs in creating inclusive, safe spaces where Australians of all backgrounds and abilities can enjoy football, whether they’re players, coaches, officials, volunteers, or fans.

The program’s emphasis on inclusivity and community alignment has been pivotal in meeting the increased demand for grassroots football, a trend supported by the AusPlay data. As football participation rises, Club Changer enables local clubs to keep pace, equipping them to better serve their communities and provide a positive environment for newcomers and returning players alike.

This year’s survey also highlights the impressive impact of volunteers, who collectively contribute over 145 million hours to Australian sport annually. Football’s community relies on these volunteers to support the growing demand, and their role is invaluable in sustaining the accessibility and reach of the game nationwide.

In line with broader participation trends and the Australian Sport Participation Strategy Play Well, which encourages sports to adapt to participants’ needs, Football Australia is committed to evolving its programs and fostering accessible environments where everyone can experience the joy of the game – whether through organised clubs or informal play – building stronger communities and promoting well-being nationwide.