Country Football WA approves 33 per cent increase in travel payment for players due to rising fuel price

Country Football WA has endorsed a significant increase in travel payments for players ahead of the 2026 season, in a bid to ensure leagues can remain sustainable with player availability. In a release on Thursday, CFWA advised that its board had recently considered the impacts of rising fuel prices and potential flow on effects this may have on player availability as the 2026 season commences across several of their affiliated leagues. The decision to approve a 33 per cent increase to the travel payment schedule for this season comes on the back of consultation and feedback received from leagues and clubs as fuel prices soar nationally. Travelling player payments are not mandatory but eligible to be paid if clubs and leagues wish to do so. Under the revised travel payment schedule for 2026, a player travelling between 200km-299km can receive an amount of $66.50 per game. Those travelling from 300km-399km can receive $133 and that amount is $199.50 for those going 400km-499km. Any player travelling more than 500km can get a $266 payment. CFWA stressed that this payment is optional but may help with ensuring teams can field the adequate number of players this season in such challenging times. “Country Football WA acknowledges that any increase to travel payments has financial implications for both players and clubs,” the statement read. “The situation will continue to be monitored closely and further amendments or relief measures are not being ruled out should circumstances require. “Clubs are advised that there is no mandatory requirement to increase travel payments in line with the relief provided. “The updated schedule is offered as an option available to clubs, allowing flexibility based on local circumstances.” CFWA said it remained committed to supporting its member leagues and clubs in managing rising operational costs while maintaining the sustainability and integrity of regional football competitions. “We have only had two leagues that have started but we are going to know more in the next two or three weeks, regarding the impact (fuel costs) is going to have,” CFWA country football south manager Brent Sheridan said on Friday. “Clubs don’t have to pay the additional among but it’s an opportunity they can provide, a starting point.” Sheridan said paid travelling players are vital to many leagues remaining viable. “With population in regional areas it makes sense. “We need to look at some relief and these are constant conversations we will have with leagues and clubs. “This is what has been approved at the moment but that is not to say that it won’t change during the season.” The travel payment schedule is listed among the paid player and coaches guidelines in the CFWA’s rules and regulations.