Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has stepped in and overturned Fed Square’s decision not to screen Socceroos matches during the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Melbourne Arts Precinct officials announced the surprise call on Wednesday, citing poor behaviour during events for the 2022 tournament and Matildas matches during the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
The backlash was swift and Football Australia joined fans in calling for a backflip before Allan answered the call on Thursday morning.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today Arrow
“Yesterday, Melbourne Arts Precinct decided that Fed Square won’t show Socceroos matches on the big screen,” Allan wrote.
“I disagree with that decision — and I am overturning it.
“The government will ensure Fed Square has the support it needs to put on the matches this year.
“We’re also looking at additional events and live sites so Victorians have more options to watch. Now more than ever, people deserve free stuff to do together in the city.
“There’s always a risk of bad behaviour from a few dickheads at every public gathering, but police and security will be on site, and there’ll be zero tolerance for it.
“The World Cup should bring us together, not keep us apart. Good luck Socceroos — Victoria is behind you.”
Fed Square officials blamed fan behaviour for their decision to cancel the screenings. Credit: Getty Fed Square director and CEO Katrina Sedgwick accepted Allan’s support despite doubling down on her organisation’s ban in the hours before the government’s intervention.
“We welcome the Victorian Government’s decision to support Fed Square in its ability to provide a safe and welcoming live site for the 2026 World Cup,” Sedgwick said.
“We’ll work closely with the Victorian Government, City of Melbourne and Victoria Police to create a safe and secure environment, and we look forward to seeing the Socceroos back on the world stage, and on the big screen next month.”
The 2026 World Cup features fan-friendly times for Socceroos fans.
The team’s first match against Turkey will take place at 2pm on Sunday, June 14 before a 5am clash with the United States on Saturday, June 20.
The last group game against Paraguay is set for 12pm on Friday, June 26.
Fed Square has hosted thousands of fans to watch Socceroos fixtures since the 2006 World Cup.
Footage of celebrations at the venue were went viral around the world when Australia advanced to the Round of 16 during the 2022 tournament.
Melbourne Arts Precinct said the layout of Fed Square means it was difficult to control fan behaviour and cited the lighting of more than 100 flares at a single event.
Socceroos players, including veteran Jackson Irvine, spoke about being inspired by the scenes during the 2022 World Cup.
– with AAP