The expansion of the A-League to 10 teams from the start of 2009-10 season has been confirmed with Gold Coast and Townsville joining the competition from next year.
FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said the move was a 'fantastic news day' for the A-League, which is in only its fifth season. He also reiterated the FFA's earlier view that the A-League would seek to continue expansion to a 12 or 14-team competition over the next few years.
"Expansion of the A-League is a critical issue to the continuing evolution and growth of football and this is a very exciting day for FFA, everyone involved in the A-League, Gold Coast United and North Queensland," Buckley said.
"The Gold Coast is a vitally important region for football," Buckley said. "It is one of the fastest growing regions in the country with a population already over half a million and a strong level of participation and interest in the sport."
"We know that the people of the Gold Coast enjoy supporting local teams and I have no doubt Skilled Park will be one of the best home grounds in the country."
"Having a local team will also help encourage talented young players from the region, as it gives them a clear pathway into Australia's premier competition."
Buckley revealed the licence has also been approved for the Townsville-based North Queensland consortium but final legal documentation is yet to be completed.
"North Queensland has met all the commercial criteria we set for them last month, including local community and business support which has been terrific," he added.
"Like the Gold Coast, North Queensland people are very proud of their local teams."
"We know that there are many people in the city of Townsville, and beyond, who are looking forward to the A-League being part of the North Queensland sporting landscape."
"North Queensland has a fine record of producing outstanding home grown players, and having a local A-League team will be another impetus to encourage more talented young footballers."
Gold Coast chief executive Clive Mensink was delighted to have his team guaranteed a spot in the competition.
"This is absolutely tremendous news for the Gold Coast," Mesnik said. "FFA has worked with us tirelessly to finalise our bid and to get this club up and running. We thank them for their diligence and attention throughout the process."
"As a club, we want to contribute as much as we can to the long term enrichment and development of the game. That begins with harnessing support and input from the Gold Coast community, then producing a successful, entertaining team for them to support and be proud of."
North Queensland FC consortium head Don Matheson was also very pleased.
"It's been a fast and furious four weeks since we were granted exclusive negotiation rights and it has been very rewarding to see the wonderful response from local people," Matheson said.
"I'm very appreciative of the opportunity to finalise the legal paperwork."
"We're all so committed to the long term future growth of football and of ensuring North Queensland is a leading team in the A-League in the years to come."
Buckley estimated it would be a few weeks before all legal requirements were finalised between North Queensland FC and FFA but reiterated this was the only matter outstanding.