The FFA has stepped in to secure the club's short-term future but the picture beyond that appears far less clear.

With so little cash from outside sources, bums on seats are more crucial than ever and Jets CEO John Tsatismas has done the maths on that score.

"In a climate of relatively low support from the corporate world, you need a 12,000 crowd on an average basis to be able to break even," Tsatsimas told the Newcastle Herald.

But with the club's future not guaranteed beyond the game against Perth Glory on Friday, Tsatsimas admitted business would be cautious to ride to the rescue.

"People are still waiting to see what the final position will be," he said. "No one will say tomorrow, 'Here is x-y-z.' Experience dictates that these things are done over eight- or nine-month discussions.

"No one will say 'Here you go guys, I feel sorry for you - done.'"

That means the community's support is vital. Newcastle need 12,000 but home games so far this year have been 8735 and 7066.

"We are more reliant on the general public to make a statement in terms of do they want the team here. That gives us a base," added Tsatsimas.

The Newcastle Herald has launched a Save Our Side campaign in response to the Jets' plight.