The decision for the World Cup hosts for 2018 and 2022 will be made at the end of 2010 with Australia locked into a battle with other potential host nations, including England.

The FFA continues to work towards its goal of hosting as the national team's ranking hit an all-time of 14 this month.

"We continue to work hard and have a dedicated team in place to pursue it," Buckley said today.

"It's an enormous challenge, we've never underestimated that but I think over the course of the last 18 months to two years we've built up some respect and credibility.

"I think there is an understanding that Australia has a capacity to host."

Buckley said work was in progress with the states on training sites and stadia ahead of the five day visit by FIFA next year.

He added some stadia do need refurbishment "but we start with a fantastic foundation and we're pleased with the progress we're making but there is plenty of work to do."