Football Australia has announced a partnership with LEGO Group to assist in building the future of women’s football.

The three-year deal sees LEGO Australia become the first official partner of the Legacy ‘23 program, which looks to inspire and develop the next generation of footballers through inclusive play.

Commenting on the partnership, Football Australia CEO, James Johnson, said: “Legacy ’23 is our opportunity to transform Australian football through impactful and long-lasting tangible benefits from our co-hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australian and New Zealand 2023™.”

“It is an opportunity which Football Australia has grasped with both hands, and we have achieved some significant milestones for the game to date.

“We know the power of play through football and the transformative opportunity it can provide for our participants and their families, and we are proud to have on board a partner like LEGO Australia who shares our values and vision.

“This exciting partnership with the iconic global LEGO brand alongside our iconic national teams and our Legacy ’23 plan presents an incredible opportunity for collaboration as we seek to inspire Australians.

“The next 12 months will be a true game-changer for our sport as we continue to bring our vision for legacy to life and make Australian football more inclusive and accessible.

“We are delighted to have LEGO join us for this journey,” he said.

LEGO Australia and New Zealand vice president and general manager, Troy Taylor, said: “This exciting new collaboration with Football Australia forms part of our ambition to inspire positive change for future generations.”

“We believe that the benefits of play, such as building confidence, creativity, and communication skills, are felt by all children, yet unfortunately, led by society, we still experience stereotypes in what activities including sports, children are encouraged to do, based on their gender.

“At the LEGO Group, we know we have a role to play, to champion inclusive play and help give children the confidence to succeed,” he said.