Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) has reaffirmed its resolve to seek a resolution amid the ongoing dispute regarding a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
PFA Chief Adam Vivian made the call today, with the A-League season due to kick-off in less than one month and the Socceroos and Matildas set to undertake crucial matches.
“The past few months have taken a toll on everyone in the Australian football community,” said Vivian. “Now more than ever we need to work together to resolve the issues that face our game.
Vivian also clarified the PFA’s position following statements from both Football Federation Australia (FFA) and A-League clubs owners.
“The proposals tabled by the PFA yesterday in relation to the salary cap were not new. They have been tabled consistently throughout the negotiations.
“Increases to the salary cap over the next two years are responsible and affordable. FFA’s proposed salary cap flexibilities indicate the game’s capacity for an increase in player payments, in which they forecasted a 12 per cent rise.
“The problem is that clubs are under no obligation to use these flexibilities. As a consequence, the players have sought certainty and security regarding what FFA has stated the clubs can afford.
“The players understand the financial realities of the game and have proposed a number of measures to address this, including:
>> an effective club licensing system; and
>> a genuine revenue sharing model to ensure all parties are incentivised to grow the game for the better of all stakeholders.
“To date, these have not been adopted. The game’s problems cannot be tackled merely through the continued implementation of the current model.
“The players remain committed to enhancing the financial strength of Australian football and to ensuring the code can compete in one of the world’s most competitive markets. Ultimately this should be the ambition of all.”
Media
Beau Busch | Media and Communications Manager
PH: +61 (0) 432 763 485
E: beau@pfa.net.au
