Every FFA Cup final has been won by the host club, which had been previously determined by FFA criteria, largely around commercial interests.

Several overlooked finalists had voiced their displeasure about the process, which has now been changed following a period of consultation with A-League clubs and Member Federations, which received support from all stakeholders. 

After the FFA Cup semi finals, FFA will conduct a live draw on FOX SPORTS to determine the FFA Cup final host city based on which two teams have qualified.

The live draw will be conducted if there is at least one  suitable venue in each of the cities in which the two competing clubs are based.

After determining the host city, FFA will then select the most appropriate venue, subject to a suitability criteria.

FFA’s Head of Leagues Greg O’Rourke said that the decision to move to a live draw to determine the host city for the FFA Cup final ought to add to the excitement of the competition.

“FFA Cup fans have been calling for a process to determine the host city for the FFA Cup final, so we are delighted that this year we have been able to work with Hyundai A-League clubs and Member Federations to achieve this positive outcome,” O’Rourke said.

“There will be a great sense of anticipation around the nation, and especially for everyone involved with the two competing clubs, when the draw is held live on FOX SPORTS."

In addition, as witnessed at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, teams competing in the FFA Cup 2018 final rounds can also use a fourth substitute if a match goes into extra time.

The final update to the FFA Cup regulations is that – in accordance with the recent trial in the A-League – match ifficials will be able to issue team officials with yellow and red cards during FFA Cup matches.

A mega night of action will kick off the FFA Cup 2018 final rounds on Wednesday 25 July.

Six matches involving clubs from seven Member Federations will be staged across the nation.