Football Federation Australia (FFA) today confirmed that its Board has initiated a formal Show Cause process under the FFA Code of Conduct in relation to the alleged conduct of four Australian Under-23 players during the AFC U23 Championship qualifying tournament in Cambodia in March this year.
This follows an extensive, independently-run investigation into a complaint received by the FFA. The investigation was initiated shortly after the complaint was received and, due to its complexity, took months to complete.
The FFA Board considered the findings of the investigation on 3 October and the Board subsequently determined that the Show Cause process should proceed.
The players that are the subject of the process are: Brandon Wilson; Nathaniel Atkinson; Lachlan Wales; and Riley McGree.
Clause 2.1 of the FFA Code of Conduct provides that a player must not bring FFA or the game of football into disrepute, including by way of ‘conduct or behavior that materially injures the reputation and goodwill of FFA’.
Clause 6.1 also provides that a representative player ‘…must:
- a. At all times behave in a manner that promotes and upholds the highest standards of integrity, dignity and professionalism;
- b. Comply with any team protocol and procedures, including in relation to alcohol, curfews and inappropriate relationships; and
- c. Not act in a manner contrary to the best interests of the team.’
FFA takes this opportunity to reconfirm its commitment to its values of inclusion, diversity, respect and integrity. FFA is determined to live its values and continue to act in the best interest of the game of football in Australia.
All parties involved have been offered support and counselling services. FFA is also in contact and continues to work with Professional Footballers Australia on the matter.
