In 1981, the Australian Soccer Federation (ASF) embarked on a marketing programme as the "first step in the introduction of licensing to the sport of soccer in the country."

It was delivered in two phases. The first phase was the release of 13 Socceroo Mascots that were to be used by manufacturers in product licensing, along with a new ASF logo, and licences such as ASF approved, ASF Official Supplier, ASF Dressing Room product and ASF Official Training Product. 

The second phase was the introduction of new emblems and team nicknames for the NSL clubs.