Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) today, outlining the organisation’s achievements during the 2023/24 financial year, the impact of its charity, Footballers’ Trust, and announcing new appointments to the Executive.

AGM Highlights

  • David Williams appointed to PFA Executive, Dylan Holmes’ position ratified, and Clare Hunt and Mat Ryan re-elected
  • Leigh Broxham, Natasha Rigby, Jason Hoffman, Emma Checker and Mark Milligan presented with PFA Life Membership in recognition of their outstanding service to the players and Australian football
  • PFA outlined the impact of the Footballers’ Trust, the players’ charity initiative that has invested over $500,000 into community programs
  • Claire Coehlo appointed as a PFA Trustee joining Craig Foster, Alex Tobin and Matt McKay

Four major changes to the PFA’s Executive were confirmed at the AGM, with Adelaide United’s Dylan Holmes appointed by a player vote and Australian internationals Clare Hunt and Mat Ryan re-elected for a further three years.

Experienced A-League Men forward David Williams was also elected to the PFA Executive. Williams brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to the PFA, strengthening the organisation’s capacity to advocate for players’ rights and develop the professional game.

“For me joining the Executive means a great deal. To have the backing from my peers and friends within the PFA is special and I feel humbled to be chosen for this role,” Williams said.

“I have depended on the PFA over my career and have benefited from it and used so many resources and received so much help over my years as a PFA member.

“To now be able to give my insights and experience over my career and contribute in a positive way for all PFA members is a privilege and a role I will be honoured to take on. I look forward to working closely with all involved.”

The PFA also recognised the five-year anniversary of the establishment of organisation’s charity, the Footballers’ Trust. Since its establishment, the Trust has invested over $500,000 into 24 community programs.  A report outlining the Trust’s impact will be released next week.

The organisation’s major achievements were also outlined at the AGM and have been released via the PFA’s Annual Report, which can be accessed here.

PFA highlights across the 2023/24 financial year outlined in the PFA Annual Report included:

  • Confirmation of a record 704 members
  • 190 legal cases opened on behalf of players
  • $500,000 secured in outstanding salaries owed to players
  • 203 education grants provided to players
  • 1,082 confidential mental health sessions accessed by members
  • 113 highlights videos to players seeking employment
  • Skin cancer checks delivered for all National Team players
  • 18 past player events held to reconnect retired players with the game
  • 483 A-Leagues players took part in skill development workshops
  • A world-leading Collective Bargaining Agreement for all National Team players

The AGM acknowledged the contributions of the PFA’s newest Life Members, Leigh Broxham, Natasha Rigby, Emma Checker, Jason Hoffman and Mark Milligan, who exemplified leadership and commitment to the PFA and their peers throughout their professional careers.

PFA Chief Executive Beau Busch stated:

“The appointment David and the ratification and reappointments of Dylan, Mat and Clare ensures that the PFA will continue to be led by a truly outstanding Executive Committee.

“The AGM highlighted many of the important achievements of the PFA and our members during the 2023/24 season. However, it most clearly illustrated the incredible leadership of the players.

“From the impact of the Footballers’ Trust to the support provided to our retired and transitioned players, this generation should be very proud of the impact they are having on the game and the broader community.

“Finally, to our new appointed Life Members Natasha, Jason, Leigh, Emma and Mark we thank you for contribution to the players and Australian football.”

The PFA Executive:

Jackson Irvine (President), Francis Awaritefe (Chair), Beau Busch (Chief Executive), Mathew Ryan, Tameka Yallop, Jack Hingert​, Clare Hunt, Andrew Redmayne,  David Williams, Dylan Holmes, Elise Kellond-Knight