The Australian federal government is to put up A$45 million to Football Federation Australia (FFA) to assist with the country's bid for the 2018 World Cup.
The FFA is reported to have requested a figure exceeding A$50 million, but the government has now signed off on the A$45 million total.
The money will be used to create a core team that will organise Australia's bid for the biggest football tournament in the world.
Frank Lowy, chairman of the FFA, will lead the bid team in their goal to secure the competition which could prove a substantial economic boost to the country.
Kate Ellis, Australia's minister for sport, said: "This sends a clear message to the football world that Australia is serious about hosting the 2018 Fifa World Cup."
Ms Ellis added that the government would work closely with the FFA to present a strong bid for the 2018 tournament.
According to the Herald Sun, former Sydney FC player Dwight Yorke said that Australia had a fight on its hands but that it was a "great place" for the World Cup.
© Copyright
21 October 2010
21 October 2010
21 October 2010
20 October 2010
20 October 2010
