New Zealand's A-League clubs are expressing support for a revised pay deal that aims to resolve ongoing disputes between the league and its players. The Professional Footballers Australia (PFA), the players' union, previously rejected a pay deal from the Australian Professional Leagues (APL), which oversees the A-League, leaving the situation uncertain.

Updated Proposal from APL

This week, the APL presented an updated proposal to the PFA, suggesting a one-year Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) in anticipation of the 2026-27 A-Leagues season, set to commence in October. A significant point of contention has been the salary cap for the A-League Women (ALW). The APL's revised proposal includes a 41 percent increase to the women's maximum salary cap, raising it to $900,000, along with improvements to maternity and paternity benefits.

Support from Clubs

The proposal also outlines significant exclusions from the salary cap, including pro-rata amounts for ALW contracts exceeding 38 weeks and the establishment of a marquee player fund for up to three players for the upcoming season. The Wellington Phoenix has welcomed this updated proposal, highlighting the APL's commitment to establishing a pathway toward full-time professionalism for women players. The club stated that Player Contract Regulations will be issued in accordance with the new proposal, providing clarity for staff and players as discussions with the PFA continue.

Auckland FC has also expressed its support for the proposal, emphasizing a desire to collaborate with players to enhance the sport. Additionally, a Player Advisory Committee is being proposed, consisting of equal representation from men's and women's teams across clubs, to engage with the APL quarterly for feedback on strategic matters.

APL chief executive Steve Rosich remarked that the updated proposal offers a solid foundation for sustainable growth in the league. He noted the APL's commitment to this process, which began around eight months ago, and emphasized the intention to meet both immediate priorities and long-term goals in collaboration with the PFA.