Football Queensland backflips on 2027 fee changes

Football Queensland has backflipped on proposed changes to its 2027 fee structure after pushback from member clubs across the state.

More than 100 clubs wrote to the governing body earlier this month in solidarity against what they called an unreasonably dramatic fee hike.

The clubs said the increased fees would likely make the sport unaffordable for families.

Initially, FQ disputed the clubs' claims and added that Queensland has the lowest fees in the country.

Today, the governing body has gone back on its proposed changes, saying it has listened to its clubs.

The statement does not include any concession that the proposed 2027 fees had resulted in a price rise.

Instead of the 2027 fees changing to a new Competition Access Fee (CAF), FQ has confirmed it will retain the existing structure for the new year.

It added there will be "modest adjustments to reflect inflation".

In a statement, FQ said it still remained confident in the initially proposed CAF model, but accepted it "represented a significant change for clubs".

"Having carefully considered the feedback and the practical challenges of implementation, the Board believes retaining the existing structure for 2027 is the most sensible way forward," the statement said.

For 2027, player enrolment fees will now be $60 for MiniRoos, $80 for junior players, and for seniors, $150.

Explaining the 2027 fees, FQ said they will include two adjustments — transaction and technology costs, and a "modest adjustment".

"After more than seven years without an increase to player enrolment fees, a modest adjustment will help maintain the delivery of statewide football services and programs while continuing to keep football affordable," the statement said.