Football Australia held its 20th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.
The AGM took place as the Football Australia 2023 Annual Review was released, which includes the Annual Financial Report for FY 2023 that was one of the meeting’s talking points.
At the AGM, three nominations were received to fill two Elected Director positions on the Board of Football Australia for terms expiring at the 2026 AGM:
- CICCARELLO, Salvatore (Sam) proposed by Football South Australia and seconded by Melbourne City FC;
- HILL, Alison proposed by Football Tasmania and seconded by Football Northern Territory; and
- PAPPAS, Spiro proposed by Football NSW and seconded by Football Victoria.
Football Australia’s Members voted to elect Mr. Sam Ciccarello and Mr. Spiro Pappas for terms of office, expiring at the 2026 AGM.
After the AGM, the Board convened to unanimously elect a new Chair, as Chris Nikou previously confirmed he would be stepping down. Anter Isaac was named to succeed him – a respected figure within the football community to lead the organisation. In addition, experienced technology and media executive Jaclyn Lee-Joe was also elected as Deputy Chair.
Nikou reflected on his five-year tenure as Chair, a role he had since November 2018 and was also a board member since 2014.
“As we conclude an extraordinary year for Australian football, my pride in our accomplishments in 2023 is immense,” he said in a statement.
“The Subway Socceroos and CommBank Matildas have delivered historic performances in their FIFA World Cups, sparking a nationwide celebration of our sport’s excellence. Our strong financial and commercial outcomes, alongside these successes, highlight the robustness and resilience of Australian football.
The unparalleled funding driven by the Legacy ’23 initiative, and our role in successfully co-hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup, are clear indicators of our dedication and capability. These are not mere achievements; they represent the flourishing potential and global recognition of Australian football.
“The continued expansion of our grassroots programs remains the cornerstone of our sport, crucial for sustained success. The triumphs of this year reflect the collective effort and commitment of the entire Australian football community. As I transition out of my role, I am filled with confidence that Australian football is on a trajectory to reach unprecedented levels, fuelled by our collective passion for the game and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
“Being the Chair of Football Australia has been both an honour and a tremendous responsibility. The progress we have made, and the resilience displayed by our football community during a period of dynamic change, fills me with immense pride.
“With the sport poised for continued growth, I am confident that under Anter’s leadership, Football Australia will scale new heights and continue to make significant strides in the world of football.”
Anter Isaac also spoke about becoming Chair as he thanked Nikou for his services.
“Firstly, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the outgoing Chair, Chris Nikou, for his exceptional leadership and dedication to Australian football,” Isaac said.
“His contribution has been invaluable. I am also profoundly grateful to my fellow Board Members for their confidence in me and I look forward to working with them. Stepping into the position of Chair of Football Australia is both an honour and a responsibility that I embrace with enthusiasm and commitment.
“Building on the strong foundation laid by Chris and previous Boards, our focus will be on nurturing our nation’s passion for football, advancing our strategic objectives, and ensuring the sustained growth and success of football at all levels in Australia.”
The Football Australia Board now comprises of the following members:
- Anter ISAAC – Chair
- Jaclyn LEE-JOE – Deputy Chair
- Mark BRESCIANO
- Joseph CARROZZI
- Sam CICCARELLO
- Amy DUGGAN
- Heather GARRIOCK
- Catriona NOBLE
- Spiro PAPPAS
