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Football Australia has today advised that its Chief Executive James Johnson has resigned from his role after five and a half years.

Johnson’s departure comes at a challenging time for the governing body with it facing financial issues and with both the Matildas and Socceroos preparing for major international tournaments next year.

Johnson (pictured) informed the Football Australia board of his decision at a meeting today, later advising "as someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down.

"I want to extend my thank you to the Football Australia Board and everyone within the Australian football community for their support during my tenure. Football is a local and global sport so no matter where I am, I will always be here to support Football Australia and Australian football.”

During his tenure Johnson guided the sport through the COVID-19 pandemic, establishing Football Australia’s 15-year Vision, delivering record revenue growth, introducing new football reforms including Club Licensing Regulations and key changes to the Player Transfer System, and revamping the Australia Cup connecting the competition to Asia through AFC Club Competitions.

He also led Football Australia’s successful bid and hosting of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, which was a globally recognised success and a cultural shift for all sport in Australia. During his tenure, Football Australia successfully secured the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026 and oversaw the building of Australian football’s men’s and women’s national teams into equally recognisable global sporting brands that achieved their best-ever performances at the FIFA World Cup 2022 and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

The Board of Football Australia has named current Director Heather Garriock to the role of interim Chief Executive, with the former Matilda resigning from the Board.

Football Australia Chair Anter Isaac thanked Johnson for his leadership and dedication, stating “James has guided Football Australia through extraordinary challenges and leaves a great legacy. We wish him every success for the future.”

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