Football Australia to cut over 20% staff after record losses

Football Australia will cut more than 20 percent of its staff as it confronts a second consecutive record financial loss, chief executive Martin Kugeler announced Tuesday. The organization is undertaking a major restructure to achieve financial sustainability.

The exact scale of the latest loss, which exceeds last year’s record $8.5 million deficit, will be detailed at Football Australia’s annual general meeting next Thursday. Kugeler, who began his role earlier this year, described the situation as unsustainable. He said the organization must live within its means and establish a structure to capitalize on future opportunities.

Staff were notified of the redundancies in meetings throughout Tuesday. Kugeler stated the job cuts were a last resort, pursued only after reductions in travel, projects, and other external costs. While the organization’s total headcount was not confirmed, sources indicate it is fewer than 200 people. The restructuring will also involve creating new roles focused on digital products, analytics, fan engagement, and commercial strategy.

The financial distress comes despite a period of significant on-field success and major tournaments hosted in Australia,...