Western United have vowed to return “bigger, stronger and better” as they review next steps after Football Australia announced the club had failed to satisfy the mandatory criteria set out in the regulations for A-League licensing.
Western sat out the 2025-26 A-Leagues seasons after the financially embattled club were placed in hibernation by the Australian Professional Leagues, having been stripped of their license by FA in August last year.
Head coach John Aloisi departed and all senior men’s and women’s players were forced to find new homes, and the 2022 champions’ future remains uncertain after FA confirmed “all current A-League teams, with the exception of Western United, have satisfied the mandatory criteria set out in the Regulations for A-Leagues club licensing purposes” based on documentation provided by teams.
Today is absolutely HUGE for Melbourne Victory.
Disappointing news for Heidelberg United’s dreams of playing continental football.
Why this decision? https://t.co/yje2v93tbc pic.twitter.com/yQcGaDGCU6
— Football360.com.au (@football360au) May 19, 2026
FA said Western United have until 5pm on Friday, May 22 to appeal the First Instant Body’s (FIB) decision. Should Western United choose to appeal, they will be heard by the Appeals & Entry Control Body (A&ECB).
“Club licensing Regulations are mandated by the AFC to ensure consistency, transparency and due process in all licencing decisions,” FA said.
Western United – who have refused to give up home of returning to A-Leagues competition – released a statement in response, which read: “Western United FC acknowledges Football Australia’s determination regarding the Club Licensing process for the 2026/27 season.
Western United FC acknowledges Football Australia’s determination regarding the Club Licensing process for the 2026/27 season.
The Club is currently reviewing the determination and the available pathways moving forward.
Full statement below.https://t.co/e8jcddlSrV
— Western United FC (@wufcofficial) May 19, 2026
“The Club is currently reviewing the determination and the available pathways moving forward including its appeal rights and ongoing discussions with relevant football stakeholders.
“We can assure the community that work continues behind the scenes to stabilise the club and secure a long-term sustainable future for football in Melbourne’s west.
“Importantly, the club’s academy and community football programs continue to operate, supporting hundreds of young players and families across the region.
“We continue to work closely with key stakeholders regarding the future of the club, and we remain committed to finding the best possible outcome for our members, supporters, players, staff and the broader football community.
“We will provide a further update in the coming month, as we work towards returning bigger, stronger and better for the future of football in the west. No further comment will be made at this stage.”
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