Mr Iemma indicated he would look favourably on WIN Stadium's western grandstand bid if Football Federation Australia (FFA) promised to deliver a South Coast A-League team.

Sportsground Trust chairman Chris Christodoulou, who attended yesterday's meeting, said an A-league side would "almost certainly" result in government support for a new western grandstand.

"The Premier did indicate that if the FFA could guarantee that it would give a licence to a South Coast team at WIN Stadium, that it would almost certainly mean that the Government would fund a new western grandstand," he said.

"And (Mr Iemma) has committed to meeting with us again as soon as the economic appraisal is completed."

It's the clearest sign yet of support for a new western grandstand from the Government, which has been under fire for under-investing in the Illawarra.

Mr Iemma is awaiting the outcome of a feasibility study into the issue before making any firm commitment.

WIN Stadium's low seating capacity and poor facilities remain a significant obstacle in the way of the region's bid for an A-League side.

South Coast Labour Council secretary Arthur Rorris was also part of discussions yesterday and recalls the Premier commenting that an A-League commitment would "enormously strengthen" the region's chances of getting government support for a new grandstand.

"If the A-League were to make a commitment ... that would certainly put enormous pressure on the Premier and the local members to deliver," he said.

Also in attendance was Illawarra Business Chamber president Les Dion, who said the community risked losing sporting games if the State Government did not commit.

South Coast Football chairman Eddy De Gabriele has been in discussion with Football Federation Australia, who said a South Coast team could enter the competition in the 2010 season.

"We are extremely close to finalising all the loose ends ... we are nearly there for 2010."