W-League players get a rise

AUSTRALIA’S women footballers took a step towards professionalism yesterday with pay rises and better employment conditions as the nation works to build on the success of the Matildas national team.

Many players in the WLeague were considered amateur and received only reimbursement of expenses.

But under a new two-year deal, they will be guaranteed a minimum retainer of at least $10,000 for the coming season and $12,200 for 2018-19.

High-profile stars such as Sam Kerr or Katrina Gorry are now likely to earn six-figure amounts through local and overseas club deals, and Matildas payments.

“This is the start of a new era for professional female footballers in Australia,” Football Federation Australia chief David Gallop said.

Gallop acknowledged more needed to be done to bridge the gap to what men are paid.

Australia’s W-League is about to enter its 10th season, with hopes high that standards will improve further as the country targets hosting the 2023 Women’s World Cup. The Matildas are currently ranked sixth in the world.

Professional Footballers Australia chief John Didulica hailed the deal.

“Hand-in-hand with the club owners and the FFA, it will build a platform to grow the players’ collective hope of building a professional career as a footballer,” Didulica said.