The CommBank Matildas and Subway Socceroos have officially launched the 2025 Australian National Football Team Collection, making waves not just for its design but also for its cultural significance. Created by renowned Kamilaroi artist Reko Rennie, this collection is historic as it marks the first-ever national football team kit to be developed by a First Nations artist.
This momentous launch took place just before the Matildas took on Japan at the SheBelieves Cup, scheduled for 9:00 AM AEDT. Following this event, the Socceroos will also adopt the new kit for their upcoming matches, including the Round 3 AFC Asian Qualifiers set for March. The collaboration between Nike and Football Australia reflects their united vision for the future of football, as they blend First Nations storytelling with their 'Forever Forging Forward' philosophy, which symbolizes progress, unity, and excellence within Australian football.
The design of the new strip showcases Australia’s iconic green and gold colors through innovative reinterpretations. Both the home and away kits incorporate patterns inspired by traditional First Nations message sticks, artifacts used historically by these communities to share stories and reinforce connections. "It’s been incredible to work on these kits, connecting the game I love, First Nations culture, and the athletes and fans who make up the Australian football community," stated Rennie, expressing pride at this unique opportunity.
Nick Atkinson, Nike Pacific Brand Director, emphasized the kit’s significance: "It's a powerful message of cultural visibility and unity... This launch marks a significant moment for Australian football, celebrating the diversity of the Australian football community, and the game’s power to unite." The essence of Football Australia’s ‘Forever Forging Forward’ philosophy was echoed by CEO James Johnson, who view this launch as "a historic milestone for our sport." Johnson expressed excitement about the unity represented through the new kits as they will be used by both male and female national teams, stating, “This kit is a powerful symbol of Australia’s footballing identity.”
The design features bold elements, with the home jersey presenting Australia's traditional colors through zig-zag patterns, partnered with deep green shorts. The away kit utilizes these same patterns on the side panels, uniquely incorporating Rennie’s signature pink, representing modern interpretations of ochre—common within First Nations art. Importantly, the Aboriginal Flag occupies the inner pride position on both kits, enhancing their symbolic value.
Backed by research from the Nike Sport Research Lab and utilizing advanced body-mapping technology, the kits include Nike DRI-FIT ADV technology aimed at maximizing player performance, offering high mobility, breathability, and sustainability. Antoni explains, "The innovation behind these jerseys aligns with our ambition to honor the cultural heritage of Australia, allowing our national teams to shine with pride on the global stage."
Also part of the collection is the anthem jacket, which will launch later, bringing First Nations storytelling to streetwear with its vibrant pink patterns and oversized modern aesthetic. This lifestyle collection, debuting in April 2025, aims to cater to supporters’ style with fleece, jackets, and vests aligning with the designs of the football kits.
The new jerseys are available for purchase today. They can be bought at 8:00 AM AEDT from the Football Australia online shop and Nike's official website, as well as at select retail partners such as rebel and Ultra Football. Pricing for the jerseys is AUD$100 for youth sizes, AUD$125 for stadium jerseys, and AUD$180 for match jerseys.
While this bold move may divide opinions within the Australian football community—particularly among traditionalists who favor more classic styles—this kit undeniably aims to resonate with younger, more diverse fans who appreciate modern design and cultural expression. The enthusiasm around the new kits remains palpable, especially with the Matildas preparing for the SheBelieves Cup and upcoming home friendlies against the Korea Republic this April, which will no doubt see the new designs showcased prominently.
With the footballing community at large eager to support their teams, the historic significance of this collection extends beyond mere aesthetics, echoing messages of inclusivity, unity, and cultural pride throughout Australian football. The anticipation surrounding the Matildas and Socceroos as they don these new jerseys adds to the excitement of the matches to come, reflecting Australia’s commitment to evolve within the global football arena.