Qld soccer clubs call foul over fee hike
Football Queensland has responded to backlash over a plan some clubs claimed would have increased fees by nearly 65 per cent.
Players, parents and fans from soccer clubs across Queensland have scored a win over Football Queensland’s proposed fee changes for 2027.
More than 140 clubs joined together to call for a pause on the new Competition Access Fee (CAF), saying an increase in fees could make the sport unaffordable for families – with some clubs claiming it would have increased fees by up to 64.6 per cent.
In a joint statement posted across their social media pages, the clubs called for a pause on the proposed fee hiking model and asked for full financial transparency, consultation with clubs and for FQ to work with them to advance a “fair and sustainable way forward”.
“Our clubs may represent different communities, regions and competitions, but we are united,” the statement said.
More than 8000 people also signed a separate petition calling on Football Queensland (FQ) to reconsider the “drastic increase in community registration fees”.
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“Football is more than just a game,” petition organiser John Jones wrote.
“It is a vital thread in our community’s fabric, fostering friendship, teamwork, discipline, and a host of other important life skills.
“However, the proposed fee increase is concerning as it poses a significant financial burden on many families who already struggle with the cost of living.”
A statement from FQ confirmed it would bow to statewide pressure and pause the introduction of the new fee structure.
“We recognise that further consultation and clearer communication were needed,” the statement said.
“As the custodians of football in Queensland, our responsibility is to make decisions in the best interests of the game as a whole.
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“That means being prepared to listen, reflect and, as appropriate, adjust and pause our approach, which we will do as of today.”
Responding on social media, Moreton City Excelsior said the pause “creates an essential opportunity for further consultation before changes affecting clubs, volunteers, players and families proceed”.
“Over the past week, clubs across Queensland have delivered one clear message: a change of this significance cannot proceed without genuine consultation with the clubs responsible for implementing it.
“More than 140 clubs have stood together to deliver that message.”
Holland Park Hawks FC said in a statement that the response from FQ was “an important first step”.
“Clubs are ready to engage constructively and in good faith, provided consultation is transparent and can shape the final outcome,” the Hawks statement said.
“The consequences of these reforms will be felt statewide. Consultation must therefore extend beyond a small group and reflect the diversity of Queensland’s clubs and communities.
“We call on FQ to commit to an open, accessible statewide consultation process before any revised CAF model is finalised or implemented. Every affiliated club, in every region, must have a meaningful opportunity to understand the proposal, provide feedback and help shape the outcome.”
FQ said its board would meet with FQ congress over the coming days, work with stakeholders and provide further updates to all clubs this week.
It did not rule out future changes.
“The proposed 2027 Competition Access Fee model was developed following careful consideration, financial modelling and consultation,” it said.
“We remain confident in the objectives behind the proposed changes.”
FQ was contacted for comment.
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