OPTUS KICKS OFF A DIGITAL REVOLUTION FOR FOOTBALL IN AUSTRALIA

Football in Australia has arrived at its new digital home, designed and optimised by Optus. The Football Federation Australia's (FFA) network of websites have been reinvigorated with loads of exclusive content and revamped design and functionality as Optus creates the complete football digital experience. Two new Hyundai A-league and Qantas Socceroos mobile apps have also been launched for on-the-go entertainment.

Delivering the ultimate online football portal, Optus has injected exclusive news, sneak-peek videos, behind-the-scenes photos and a host of multimedia opportunities into the FFA's websites for fans to get closer to their favourite teams and players. Fans will also be able to carry their passion for the A-league and Socceroos with them through two new dedicated mobile apps developed by Optus Digital Media.

Encompassing the FFA's and individual clubs' online properties, the Optus-optimised websites will give visitors an insight into locker-room antics and post-game thoughts, including:

• Extensive video highlights of every game
• Live minute-by-minute commentary
• Post-game interviews with captains and coaches
• In-depth game analysis within a dedicated match centre
• Opinions and analysis from the most respected names in football in Australia

Austin R. Bryan, Director of Optus Digital Media said, "Australians are extremely passionate about football and that is evident with the amount of Australians who participate in the sport. As the Official Digital Partner of Football Federation Australia, Optus is committed to providing football fanatics with the exceptional experience they desire.

"Optus is proud to have developed these football-dedicated websites for football fans to enjoy. These enhanced platforms for the FFA and the individual clubs will strongly engage the fan-base out there and drive the sport's status to even greater heights in Australia."

Two new mobile apps, available on iPhone or Android-based handsets, will keep football enthusiasts in the loop anywhere and at anytime, with alerts of match kick-off and when a goal is scored, live match scores, stats, latest news, videos and more. The free A-League app can also be centred on a favourite club to deliver personalised player profiles, news, and video.

"Research has shown that 81 per cent of Australians, have checked sports scores on their mobile for a game they're missing. These days, smartphones never leave our sides so what's better than having a dedicated app that brings live scores and play-by-play coverage for your favourite team's match straight to your mobile, wherever you are? The new A-league and Socceroos apps developed by Optus will make it seem like you're sitting right in the stadium," Mr Bryan said.

The new A-league and Socceroos iPhone apps are now available through the App Store. Android apps will be available in the Android Market and Optus App Store from October 7, 2011. Revamped websites include www.footballaustralia.com.au, www.a-league.com.au, www.footballaustralia.com.au/socceroos, and all official A-league club websites.

Media contact:
Danny Wong
Optus Corporate Affairs
(02) 8082 7850

1. Compatible with iOS4+ and Android OS2+ (excluding OS3+). Data charges apply. Video only available for users in Australia and New Zealand.
2. The survey was conducted by Lonergan Research between 23 and 26 September 2011. 1,004 Australians aged 18 years and over participated in the online survey.