Football Australia has announced the Legacy ‘23 Ambassador Program in the lead up to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

With the 2023 edition of the tournament expected to the biggest and best that’s been staged, the program will play a critical role in raising awareness and advocacy for the variety of important initiatives that have been set out in the Legacy ‘23 plan.

The plan aims to shape empowering opportunities and deliver tangible outcomes for the next generation of Australians, on and off the field.

Additionally, Football Australia has announced their first three ambassadors: inaugural captain and Matildas cap #1, Julie Dolan AM, Australia’s Sex Discrimination commissioner, and member of the Australia Human Rights Commission, Kate Jenkins, and current Socceroo, Awer Mabil.

Commenting on the program, Football Australia CEO, James Johnson, said: “As one of the nation’s most loved sports, played in every community across the country, we are so proud to partner with a diverse and enthusiastic group of trailblazers to support and advocate for Legacy ’23.”

“Each Ambassador brings a passion for the game and a genuine belief in its ability to shape and contribute to Australian society through our hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

“They have a deep care for the community and drive to do what’s best for the future of our game, and we can’t wait to see what we can achieve together,” he said.

Speaking on her appointment, Jenkins said: “There are many reasons why I’m so proud to be a Legacy ’23 Ambassador.”

“By attending countless football matches with my children over many years, I’ve seen first-hand the impact that people at the community and grassroots level can have on creating positive and meaningful change around perceptions of gender in sport.

“It’s my hope that by hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in our own backyard, we can become a global role model for recognising human rights and driving equality, as well as celebrating the great game of football,” she said.

Commenting on her goals for the ambassador program, Dolan, said: “Stepping onto the field in green and gold for the first time was one of the highlights of my life.”

“It’s my wish that through Legacy ’23, more women and girls can feel empowered to take to the park at the grassroots level and we can see football participation continue to grow for many years to come, and inspire the next generation of Commonwealth Bank Matildas,” she said

Mabil, added: “Football is a sport that unites people like no other and I truly believe it can be used to make a difference in this world.”

“The women in my life – my mother, my sister – have made me who I am, so I wanted to be part of Legacy ’23 to not only support the amazing women in football but ensure that they are seen as equal and have the opportunity to be leaders in their own right,” he said.

The announcement comes after Football Australia partnered with performance car manufacturer, CUPRA, to support the development of men’s and women’s football.