SYDNEY, May 8, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Football Australia chief executive James Johnson has resigned after five and a half years in the job, the national governing body said Thursday, having played a key part in bringing the Women's World Cup to the country.

Johnson's surprise decision to stand down comes less than a year before Australia hosts the Women's Asian Cup.

Heather Garriock, who played 130 times for Australia's Matildas between 1999 and 2011, was named interim chief executive.

"As someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down," Johnson said in a Football Australia statement.

The governing body praised Johnson's achievements in guiding the sport through the Covid pandemic and leading Australia's successful bid to co-host the 2023 Women's World Cup with New Zealand.

The tournament, which was won by Spain, was widely viewed as a great success on and off the pitch.

"James has guided Football Australia through extraordinary challenges and leaves a great legacy," Football Australia chair Anter Isaac said.