The Australian Capital Territory government is setting short, medium and long-term football goals in "an attempt to lure the Socceroos and potential A-League fixtures involving the Wellington Phoenix to the capital," according to Chris Dutton of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr confirmed his interest in "bidding for the right to host one of the Socceroos' five World Cup qualifying matches during the next 18 months." But Barr revealed there was a "chance to strike deals with A-League clubs to move matches to Canberra Stadium" to ensure elite football has a continued presence in Canberra. The No. 1 goal "remains to have an A-League team based in Canberra when Football Federation Australia officials decide to expand the competition." But Wellington looms "as a target for the ACT government to take advantage of the international flight route." Barr said, "We're still talking about the A-League, we're looking at options for the short, medium and long term. I think it's important that Canberra continues to host high-level football, so that we maintain our momentum around that" (SMH, 4/20).
