Football Australia has today opened nominations for the 2026 Football Australia Hall of Fame, inviting the football community to recognise the individuals whose achievements and service have made an exceptional and lasting contribution to the game.
As Australian football’s highest individual honour, the Football Australia Hall of Fame celebrates players, coaches, referees, administrators and volunteers whose influence has helped shape the sport at every level and across generations.
Nominations are now open and will close at 11.59pm (AEST) on Friday, 4 September 2026. Following an independent assessment process, the successful inductees will be honoured at the 2026 Football Australia Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, to be held in conjunction with a national team match later this year.
Quotes attributable to Football Australia Chairman, Anter Isaac:
“The Football Australia Hall of Fame represents the highest honour in Australian football. It recognises those whose achievements, leadership and service have made a significant and enduring contribution to our game at a national or international level, leaving a legacy that continues to shape Australian football for future generations.
“The individuals inducted into the Hall of Fame have not simply excelled in their own fields. They have inspired generations, helped define eras, influenced the development of the game, strengthened our football community and, in many cases, enhanced Australia’s reputation on the international stage. Their contributions have helped shape the continuing story of Australian football.
“As we open nominations for the 2026 Hall of Fame, we encourage the football community to help identify those whose impact reflects the exceptional standard this recognition represents. The nomination process is an important opportunity to ensure that individuals whose contributions have profoundly influenced Australian football are considered for this enduring honour.
“The Hall of Fame is about preserving the legacy of those who have shaped our game and ensuring their stories continue to inspire future generations. We look forward to recognising the 2026 inductees and celebrating the remarkable individuals whose contributions have helped define Australian football.”
Quotes attributable to Football Australia Chief Executive Officer, Martin Kugeler:
“The Football Australia Hall of Fame is the highest individual honour in our game, recognising those whose dedication, leadership and achievements have helped shape the story of Australian football.
“Behind every milestone in Australian football are individuals who have given their time, talent and passion to help the game grow. The Hall of Fame ensures that their impact is celebrated and preserved for future generations.
“We encourage the football community to nominate those whose service and commitment have left a lasting mark on our game, so that their legacy can be recognised on the national stage.”
The 2025 Football Australia Hall of Fame welcomed Tim Cahill AO, Sharon Black and Roy Hay as the latest inductees, recognising their outstanding and enduring contributions to Australian football. Their induction continued the Hall of Fame’s proud tradition of honouring the individuals whose achievements and service have helped shape the history and future of the game.
Nominations for the 2026 Football Australia Hall of Fame are now open.
To submit a nomination, or to access the eligibility criteria and nomination guidelines, click here.
Nominations close at 11.59pm (AEST) on Friday, 4 September 2026.
