The PFA and FFA will continue negotiations for a “whole of game” collective bargaining agreement next week, with the negotiations focusing on 10 key issues to ensure an agreement is finalised in advance of the Socceroos intensive international program in June and July.
The PFA and FFA have held seven lengthy meetings since January. The PFA’s chief negotiator, Executive Chairman Brendan Schwab, says that whilst there is still a lot of work to do to reach an agreement satisfactory to all parties, the PFA is pleased with the openness and transparency of FFA’s approach to the negotiations.
“The PFA is committed to achieving a ‘whole of game’ CBA that covers all Socceroos, A-League and other national team players,” Schwab says. “The PFA is determined to ensure the new CBA achieves four key objectives: (1) a partnership between the game and the players; (2) a financially viable game; (3) investment to ensure long term growth in key areas such as elite player development and commercialisation; and (4) maximising the attractiveness of the Australian career path, on and off the field. The latter involves a commitment to developing outstanding people as well as brilliant footballers.”
The top 10 key issues for negotiation are:
- Principles of Cooperation
- Revenue Sharing Model & Player/PFA Payments
- Freedom of Movement
- Use of Player Images
- Player Career Path Initiatives
- Minimum Terms of Employment
- Player Contracts
- Scheduling
- Balancing Club and Country Commitments
- Travel and Security
NB: A comprehensive report on the CBA negotiations (including summaries of the detailed proposals tabled by the PFA in the negotiations) will be included in the next edition of The Marston, which will be distributed later this month.
