In exclusive talks that lasted more than an hour, Prime Minister Rudd outlined Australia's claims to host the greatest show on earth accompanied by Football Federation Australia Chairman Frank Lowy as well as FFA CEO Ben Buckley and FIFA CEO Jerome Valcke.

Lowy later said the Australian delegation received a very warm reception from the FIFA President.

"President Blatter is already well aware of Australia's strong track record in hosting major events," he said. "But it was a very good opportunity for Mr Blatter to hear personally from the Prime Minister of the Government's support for the bid.

"We also spoke of the importance of Asia for the future growth and development of football and Australia's place as part of the Asian Football Confederation."

He added: "Asia is on the rise economically, in terms of goods and services as well as in football."

"This bid is for football but, above all else, it is for Australia."

FFA will be required to make a final presentation to FIFA, football's world governing body, in December 2010 prior to a decision being made by the 24 man FIFA Executive Committee.