Canberra United, the city’s only top-flight football team, has been rescued from potential closure with an additional $200,000 in funding from the ACT government.
The club’s fate was in doubt for several months as Capital Football faced financial challenges.
Following their last A-League Women match last month, uncertainty surrounded the club’s future.
Today, ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry announced the financial lifeline in a letter to Capital Football’s Samantha Farrow.
“The ACT government has agreed to provide an additional $200,000 to support the operational budget for Canberra United in the 2024-25 season,” Ms Berry’s letter stated.
“This offer reflects the government’s commitment to one of Canberra’s most beloved teams.
“We recognize the positive impact Canberra United has on inspiring women and girls in our community.”
Ms Berry emphasized that the government’s financial assistance would be a one-time contribution.
“This funding increase offer will only apply for the 2024-25 season and will not set a precedent for future partnership fee discussions,” Ms Berry clarified.
“Additionally, considering the current agreement expires in 2025, any future agreement will require financial due diligence to ensure Canberra United’s sustainability.”
‘We’re pretty thrilled’
The $200,000 from the ACT government supplements a previous $250,000 contribution provided earlier this year.
Save Canberra United, a community-led initiative, has also been fundraising to support the team, raising nearly $73,000 so far.
Sue Read from Save Canberra United noted that the total raised is close to sufficient for funding the team next season.
“I just spoke with Capital Football, and they have received the board’s approval to proceed with next season,” Ms Read shared.
“We still need to raise around $30,000, so we will continue fundraising to bridge that gap.
“However, this level of support gives the board confidence to commit to next season, which is fantastic news.”
Ms Read expressed how the local community’s support for the team has brought them to this point.
“This demonstrates the impact of passion, community support, and our fundraising efforts,” she said.
“We are thrilled that the team’s future is secured, and we are very excited.”
One challenge in Canberra United’s future has been the potential introduction of a men’s A-League team.
Ms Read believes this funding lifeline allows sufficient time to address this issue and others concerning Canberra United.
“We have discussed further investments for the future in recent meetings,” she mentioned.
“We are optimistic that Canberra is well-positioned to not only have a women’s team but also to introduce a men’s team.”
“This funding should provide enough time to ensure the necessary investments are in place for the following season,” she added.
Capital Football has been reached out to for a response.
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