ACT Government $2.5 million for A-League side

The ACT Government has announced a multi-million dollar deal for the Canberra A-League side this morning. See Press Release details below.

$2.5 million. We need $6 million and a strong supporter base to get in. With a number of investors already on board we just need to prove to the FFA we have 5000 Foundation Members. www.a-league4canberra.com Sign up now and get that team!

The Bid goes in the end of August.



Canberra’s A-League goal gets a kick along

The Stanhope Labor Government will provide $2.5 million to help establish an A-League football team in Canberra.

The funding will assist the bid to have a Canberra team competing in the Hyundai A-League commencing in the 2010-11 season.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation Andrew Barr joined Canberra A-League bid leader Ivan Slavich and Capital Football Chief Executive Heather Reid at Canberra Stadium to make the announcement.

“The Stanhope Labor Government is committed to building better cities and stronger communities,” Mr Barr said.

“A successful A-League team will add to the sporting life of Canberra, providing locals with more top-quality sporting entertainment and providing visitors with even more reasons to come to Canberra.

“I am pleased to announce the Stanhope Labor Government will provide $2.5 million to help a new ALeague club meet Football Federation of Australia (FFA) financial requirements if Canberra’s A-League bid is successful. This funding will be crucial to ensuring a successful bid actually delivers a Canberra A-League team.

“A Canberra A-League club will be a win for soccer fans and a win for the ACT economy. We know from experience that the Raiders, Brumbies and Capitals all raise the profile of Canberra through the media nationally and attract visitors to games in the Territory. We also know that having access to elite sporting matches locally inspires young Canberrans in particular to get into sport and live more active and healthy lives.”

Mr Barr said thousands of Canberrans have proven their support for the A-League through playing the game and attending matches.

“The fact we have more than 17,000 registered football players in the ACT and such large crowds at ALeague games like the recent clash between the Central Coast Mariners and the Newcastle Jets shows Canberrans are great supporters of the A-League and would love to have their own team."

For further details on the A-League Bid or to become a foundation member visit:
www.a-league4canberra.com.au/