Football Australia is proud to announce that our remarkable efforts during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ have been recognised with the prestigious Project of the Year award at the 2024 Sydney Awards. 

This accolade highlights the transformative impact of the tournament, which captivated the nation and left a lasting legacy for Australian football.

Hosted by the Committee for Sydney in partnership with Macquarie University Business School and The Daily Telegraph, the Sydney Awards celebrate projects that make Sydney a vibrant and thriving global city. Football Australia’s dedication to successfully bidding, hosting and staging one of the most successful FIFA Women’s World Cup™ tournaments has earned us this recognition, shining a light on the power of football to unite, inspire, and elevate communities.

Held at the iconic Barangaroo, the awards ceremony was a night to remember, with key industry leaders and stakeholders present to celebrate the achievements that drive Sydney forward. Accepting the award on behalf of Football Australia, CEO James Johnson (joined on stage by CommBank Matilda, Kyah Simon, and Board Member, Joseph Carrozzi) expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from fans, players, and partners who contributed to making the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ an unforgettable success.

The Project of the Year award acknowledges not only the exceptional management of the event but also the profound legacy it leaves in advancing women’s sport in Australia and inspiring the next generation of players and fans.

From the record-breaking attendance and viewership to the community-driven programs that followed, the tournament has redefined the place of football in Australian culture. This award is a testament to the collaborative efforts that have cemented our place on the global stage and contributed to Sydney’s standing as one of the world’s leading cities.

We were honoured to join the alumni of past winners who share a commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Sydney and beyond. As we celebrate this win, Football Australia remains focused on continuing to lead initiatives that foster growth and inclusivity in the sport.

In the video below, James Johnson, Football Australia CEO, Sarah Walsh, Football Australia Head of AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, and Lydia Williams, the longest-serving Matildas player (2005-2024), talk about the purpose behind hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ and the lasting legacy it has left.

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