Mark Arbib (NSW, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Social Housing and Homelessness) Share this | Hansard source

As I said, the government has committed $45.6 million to the Football Federation of Australia to support the campaign. In addition, a task force was set up in January this year of dedicated Commonwealth officers to work with the FFA but also with the states. The bringing of an event such as the World Cup to this country has huge logistical barriers. A World Cup is the largest sporting event globally, has the largest viewership and requires a great deal of work and effort. That is something the government has been doing, working very closely with the FFA through the task force. All of those people working with the task force should be congratulated for their fine work.

The evaluation report, which I referred to earlier, made particular mention of the strong support of the government for Australia’s bid, which is of course very pleasing. The Australian government recognises the important role that football has to play in boosting participation levels and promoting a healthy lifestyle, particularly for younger Australians. Football is already the most popular sport played by Australian children. (Time expired)