Victorian football clubs in $2 million debt, facing expulsion from 2024 season

Victorian football clubs are almost $2 million in debt to the governing body and are being threatened with expulsion for the 2024 season.

Football Victoria is owned almost $2 million by clubs.

Victorian football clubs are as much as $2 million in debt.

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

It’s seen FV almost $2 million short in club fees from the 2023 season.

As a result, clubs in breach are being threatened with expulsion from the 2024 season.

Football Victoria has cautioned clubs taking player registration fees but not meeting financial commitments to the state body.

South Melbourne and Avondale are both financially compliant with Football Victoria. Picture: Josh Chadwick

“A significant number of clubs failed to meet their financial obligations in 2023, resulting in a historic level of debt to FV, totalling an unprecedented figure nearing $2 million,” a FV statement read.

“This matter is of the highest importance to the players, parents, guardians and families who form the backbone of our football community.

“It is imperative that any registration fees you pay ensure your ability to participate in 2024.

“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 released a list of compliant clubs with VPL pair Kingston City and Brunswick Juventus missing.

NPL clubs Port Melbourne and Hume City have been listed as clubs on payment arrangements, which are considered compliant but in danger of being in breach if they fall behind.

Eastern Lions and Australia Cup Cinderella team Goulburn Valley Suns are also on payment plans.

Football Victoria said if clubs are unable to meeting financial obligations they may face mergers or even closure.

“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,” the statement said.

“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.

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“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.”