Football Victoria (FV) has launched its new Disability Football Framework, a significant step in strengthening the delivery of disability football programs and ensuring that inclusive football is delivered intentionally, consistently, and with long-term sustainability.
For nearly three decades, disability football opportunities have continued to grow across Victoria. From the introduction of wheelchair football in 1996 to the creation of the All Abilities League and Football for All Gala Day in 2017. With interest and participation increasing, the need for a clearer, more coordinated approach has become increasingly evident.
FV All Abilities & Inclusion Programs Coordinator Selin Arpaci said delivery of dosability football has often been ad hock and it "deserves more."
“We’re no longer doing things just because they’ve always been done that way — our approach is now intentional, structured, and genuinely supportive for players, clubs and the community," she said.
“The framework also highlights our growing player pathways, including opportunities through our Cerebral Palsy Football program and our Athletes with Disability Futsal pathway."
The new Framework outlines strategic pillars that focus on visibility, club capability, program quality, player pathways, and equitable access across Victoria. The Framework itself sets the direction for FV’s work, and will guide the development of new resources, guidance and minimum standards that clubs can use in the future.
Arpaci explained the framework was shaped by listening closely to clubs and the community over several years.
“We had so many clubs reach out wanting to start disability football, but many didn’t feel confident or didn’t know where to begin. Even when programs did start, we realised we never had a consistent set of resources or guidance to support them.
"That’s why this framework, and the new resources that will come with it are so important.
“We’re excited to finally give clubs the tools they need. This framework makes our approach clearer, more intentional, and much more supportive for anyone delivering disability football and for the community."
FV CEO Dan Birrell noted the framework builds on years of progress while addressing the long-standing need for consistency across the system.
“We’ve seen incredible passion and growth in disability football, but delivery across Victoria hasn’t always been aligned. This framework gives clubs clarity, support, and a clear pathway to create high-quality, inclusive opportunities for people with disability," he said.
He emphasised the organisation’s commitment to ensuring disability programs become a permanent and essential part of the football landscape in Victoria.
“This is not a side project, it’s a core part of who we are, we want every player, no matter their ability, to have access to meaningful football experiences close to home," he said.
“Together, we can build a football environment that’s welcoming, empowering, and accessible. Every player, every club, every community — that’s the vision.”
The framework establishes a consistent statewide direction, outlining how Football Victoria, clubs, partners, and community organisations will collaborate to strengthen opportunities and build sustainable programs.
Ultimately, the aim is to create environments where players feel welcomed and valued, and where clubs feel supported from their first step all the way through to delivering long-term programs.
The Framework will be reviewed every 1–2 years to ensure it continues to reflect the development of disability football and meets the evolving needs of our clubs and community.