Football Victoria owed almost $2 million by local clubs

Governing body Football Victoria has this week revealed a concerning update that the level of debt owed to them by community clubs is close to $2 million.

Football Victoria announced on Tuesday that a “significant number of clubs failed to meet their financial obligations in 2023”.

As a result, clubs in breach are being threatened with expulsion from the 2024 season, with Football Victoria cautioning clubs taking player registration fees while not meeting financial commitments to the state body.

Football Victoria’s statement advised “while it is expected most clubs will be able to rectify their debts ahead of season 2024, FV recognises that some clubs are not financially sustainable.

“This may result in mergers, acquisitions or closures - which although challenging - would ultimately lead to stronger and more sustainable clubs who can offer a better football experience for their members and the community they serve.

“FV has worked diligently to contact and work collaboratively with clubs with outstanding debts, by offering payment arrangements and longer-term solutions where required.

“FV appreciates the proactiveness of many club administrators, who despite the challenging nature of these conversations have communicated openly and respectfully.

“The issue of club debt and the need to protect players, parents and families has raised the notion of a new process which would involve a recognition system for solvent clubs.

“This would encourage greater transparency and provide greater security for the footballing community.”

Football Victoria also stressed the impact this will have on all involved, adding “this matter is of the highest importance to the players, parents, guardians and families who form the backbone of our football community.

“If you pay a registration fee to a club that is in debt and in breach of its financial commitments, your funds may be unrecoverable as the club may not be fit to compete in the 2024 season.”

Football Victoria subsequently released a list of compliant clubs. This list can www.footballvictoria.com.au/financially-compliant-clubs

Image: Action during the recent weekend of football event in Gippsland. Credit: Football Victoria/Facebook.