Football Australia is proud to announce that Ellie Carpenter has been named the inaugural AFC Asian International Women’s Player of the Year, while also securing the prestigious AFC President’s Recognition Grassroots Award: Gold for the second consecutive year.

These honours celebrate the impact of Australian football at both elite and grassroots levels, highlighting Carpenter’s exceptional achievements and the success of Football Australia’s Club Changer program in advancing community football in Australia.

Ellie Carpenter, a standout member of the CommBank Matildas, has been recognised as a leading force in women’s football globally. Her award as AFC Asian International Women’s Player of the Year reflects her commitment to the game, inspiring young players worldwide and raising the profile of Australian football on the international stage. Overcoming an ACL injury, Carpenter played a pivotal role in helping the CommBank Matildas reach the semi-finals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™ and secured her third consecutive Olympics qualification.

Football Australia’s back-to-back Gold Award from the AFC recognises its success in grassroots football, particularly through the innovative Club Changer program. Hailed as a “world-leading initiative” by the Asian Football Confederation, the Football Australia Club Changer program – now involving 1,000 grassroots football clubs across Australia – provides critical support to community clubs and volunteers. The program develops volunteers’ skills to deliver quality football experiences and encourages clubs to engage in community-driven football activities.

Football Australia’s grassroots programs, supported by strong partnerships with CommBank, Coles MiniRoos, and MILO, have enabled the ongoing growth of football in communities nationwide. These partnerships, and the commitment of community clubs, have played a pivotal role in Football Australia’s success, particularly through a joint initiative with the Australian Sports Commission focused on Women and Girls as the first module within the Club Changer program.

James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, commented: “We are incredibly proud of Ellie Carpenter’s achievement as AFC Asian International Women’s Player of the Year and thrilled to receive the AFC President’s Recognition Grassroots Award for a second consecutive year. These awards reflect our dedication to supporting football at every level and our commitment to our community stakeholders, partners and volunteers who work tirelessly to bring the game to life on pitches across Australia every week.”

The Club Changer program’s success is evident in its positive feedback from club volunteers, with a strong focus on expanding access to football through the Growing Football Fund supported by CommBank. This recognition reflects the program’s role in fostering the next generation of Australian footballers and promoting a sustainable future for grassroots football.

Football Australia thanks all stakeholders, partners, and volunteers who have contributed to the Club Changer program and the growth of football at every level. These accolades mark another proud moment for the Australian football community, laying a strong foundation for the sport’s future.