Former players of the Australian women's football team, the Matildas, have expressed outrage over Football Australia's new membership program, dubbed Matildas FC. They believe that the program is a deliberate attempt to restrict their ability to criticize the governing body of the sport. The code of conduct associated with the membership asks members to refrain from making public statements that could potentially damage the reputation of Football Australia, which ex-players claim is an infringement on their right to speak out about issues within the sport.

The introduction of Matildas FC comes at a significant time as Australia prepares to host the Women's Asian Cup. Many former players feel that instead of fostering a supportive community for them, this initiative seeks to deter them from voicing any criticisms, especially given their historical advocacy for women's football rights. Previously, ex-players enjoyed complimentary tickets to matches without the need for a membership program, and the new requirements have raised questions about the motivations behind these changes.

The situation highlights broader concerns regarding governance in women's sports, particularly how organizations might react defensively to criticism instead of engaging constructively with players' grievances. As the Matildas continue to grow in popularity and recognition, the tension between the players and Football Australia could impact the sport's image and the support it receives from fans and stakeholders alike.