Football in regional Victoria has entered an important new chapter, with several former associations transitioning their clubs and players under Football Victoria as part of a new unified statewide structure.
As part of this milestone, Football Geelong will now be known as Football Victoria Geelong and will continue to support clubs and the local football community as a Regional Advisory Panel of Football Victoria.
This new model brings the majority of regions across Victoria together under one structure, strengthening support for clubs, improving administration and creating a more connected football ecosystem across the state.
The transition follows the extensive Regional Football Review conducted across 2023 and 2024, where regional clubs, volunteers and participants shared their insights through surveys, interviews and workshops. The outcomes of this consultation helped shape recommendations that were endorsed by the Football Victoria Board in 2024.
Under the new structure, several regions across Victoria will now operate directly under the Football Victoria banner, joining Geelong as part of a more unified statewide network.
For the Geelong region, the shift reinforces a structure that has already been in place locally for many years, with close collaboration between Football Victoria Geelong and Football Victoria continuing to grow.
Supporting Clubs Across the Region
Through this model, regional clubs and participants will benefit from:
- Stronger support from Football Victoria
- A more consistent statewide football structure
- Improved pathways for players, coaches and referees
- Greater connection between regional football communities
Football Victoria has also established a dedicated Regional Football Team, led by Regional Development Manager Lauren Stevens. The Team includes Development Coordinators across the state to provide localised support and ensure each region continues to have a strong voice within the game.
Regional Advisory Panels, including Football Victoria Geelong, will play an important role in representing their communities and helping guide the continued growth of football within their region.
Looking Ahead
Chair of the Football Victoria Geelong Regional Advisory Panel, Mike McKinstry, welcomed the next phase of football in the region.
“Football in Geelong has a proud history built by our clubs, volunteers and community. This new statewide structure strengthens our connection with Football Victoria while ensuring our region continues to have a strong voice in shaping the future of the game.
“We’re looking forward to continuing to work alongside our clubs to grow participation, support development and create the best possible football environment for players, coaches and volunteers across the Geelong region.”
This transition represents an exciting step forward for football across Victoria, with planning already underway for the upcoming seasons and continued collaboration between regions and Football Victoria.
Football Victoria Geelong looks forward to working closely with our clubs and community as we continue to grow the game together.
