A-League Women 2024: ACT Government steps in to save Canberra United

Canberra United have been offered a club-saving lifeline by the ACT Government which ensures the struggling A-League outfit can avoid being wiped out at the end of the season.

Canberra United will survive for at least one more season. Picture: Getty

Canberra United’s A-League’s Women’s team will survive at least one more season after the ACT Government put up a $200,000 lifeline.

The club, home to re-born Matildas striker Michelle Heyman, is run by Capital Football – the only A-Leagues team to be bankrolled by a state based football organisation.

Originally the plan had been for the new A-Leagues’ men’s expansion Canberra team to take on the licence for the women’s team.

But despite continuous statements from the Australian Professional Leagues that a deal is imminent no announcement has been made.

It left the women’s team in limbo. Capital Football said it did not have the funds to sustain both the women’s team and its grassroots competitions.

The organisation said it needed a $500,000 cash boost to keep the team alive for a 17th season.

Matildas star Michelle Heyman makes a run for Canberra United. Picture: Getty

Fans were quick to rally, launching an online fundraiser which has raised more than $73,000.

An announcement from the ACT Government offering an extra $200,000 on top of their annual $250,000 subsidy has saved the day.

A Capital Football spokesman said they welcomed the support.

“We thank the football community for supporting Canberra United through the ‘Save Canberra United’ fundraising campaign, and that, coupled with this generous contribution from the Government, certainly helps the club in our immediate requirements, but we still have some shortfall to cover costs for the new season,” the spokesman said.

“Having said that, the Directors of the Capital Football Board have agreed to field a team in Season 17, and we look forward to working with Government, fans, and commercial, to give the club every opportunity going forward.”

The Government has made it clear the support is limited to the next season – so if an expansion team doesn’t go ahead as planned Canberra United could be back in the same situation this time next year.

ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said in her letter to Capital Football CEP Samantha Farrow it was a one-time deal.

Alex McKenzie celebrates a victory over Brisbane Roar for Canberra United. Picture: Getty

“This offer is in recognition of the ACT Government’s commitment to one of Canberra’s most beloved teams,” the letter said.

“We acknowledge the role that Canberra United plays in inspiring women and girls in our community.”

“Please note that this funding uplift offer will only be provisioned for one year in 2024-25 and will not form the foundation of, or set any precedent for, any future negotiation discussions regarding partnership fee funding.

“Further, noting the current four-year agreement expires on 30 June 2025, any future agreement would require a financial due diligence to be undertaken to provide assurance that Canberra United is a viable ongoing concern.”

Canberra United is not the only A-Leagues club in financial strife – a buyer is yet to be found for Newcastle Jets – casting doubt over its future in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

Originally published as A-League Women 2024: ACT Government steps in to save Canberra United