For example, Football NSW CEO Stuart Hodge has outlined his state’s need for greater funding. 

Hodge said yesterday: “Our recent Football Facilities Audit shows that by 2030, football in NSW will be 700 pitches short for the expected 120,000 additional participants that will be participating in football.

“We continue to urge all levels of government to work together and invest in the largest and most diverse sporting code in the country."

Football NSW’s extensive facilities audit revealed these alarming statistics across their state:

·         32% of playing fields have no lighting

·         42% of fields have lighting which is considered inadequate for football

·         45% of fields have no irrigation at all

·         Only 12% of change rooms are female friendly

·         Only 19% of match official provisions are female friendly

“The physical and mental health benefits delivered by Football to the NSW community are simply astonishing," added Hodge. 

“The annual community contribution which football provides through reducing common diseases is valued at $4.6 million.

“Our diverse and accepting culture towards people from all backgrounds and abilities serves to unite and strengthen our community bonds and further emphasises football’s social impact to the state of NSW."

That we know. 

Football, the world game, soccer, whatever you want to call it, can be of huge help to governments of all levels as they strive for social, cultural and community outcomes.

The vehicle isn't shouting and screaming about injustices. 

Federations - state and national - need their own professional, data-driven policy platform that clearly tells football's narrative, and explains how government can be helped to reach their own outcomes.

At the advocacy level, ministerial offices require an evidence-based document to take to Cabinet to lobby for funds.

By using a compelling, data-based approach, how could any minister for sport argue?

In football parlance, a great pass to a striker can unlock a defence.

Likewise, a professional, stats-based document as part of a broader policy platform can unlock funds from Cabinet.

Funds for infrastructure, lighting, stadia or just changing rooms for young girls who love football.

It’s time.

But it’s not just time for a fairer funding deal.

The stats are irrefutable. 

It’s time we showed the government WHY it’s a great idea to partner with football, rather than complain when funding to other sports increases. 

Once we do that, we'll start winning the battle for more equitable funding in Australia's biggest participation sport.