Victorian premier Jacinta Allan has overturned a decision not to screen Socceroos matches at Federation Square in Melbourne that had drawn an angry response from the football community.

Matildas captain Sam Kerr was the most prominent critic of Wednesday’s decision by Melbourne Arts Precinct that was also dubbed “ridiculous” by former Socceroo Craig Foster.

Allan posted on social media on Thursday morning – less than 24 hours after the original announcement – to not only reverse the decision but promise more opportunities for fans to be involved in events for next month’s World Cup.

“Yesterday, Melbourne Arts Precinct decided that Fed Square won’t show Socceroos matches on the big screen,” she said. “I disagree with that decision – and I am overturning it.”

Asked about the matter at a press conference later on Thursday, Allan said these matches were important occasions for the community.

“Now more than ever, at a time like this, there’s so many different pressures on families and communities,” she said.

“We want to grab these moments, to come together, to celebrate our national team, to celebrate the Socceroos, to cheer them on as one.”

Football Australia had called on the sport’s large fanbase on Wednesday evening to help convince Victorian officials to change their minds. Chief executive Martin Kugeler said on Thursday “we are grateful to the premier for listening to the views of fans”.

“This is an excellent outcome for football fans, local businesses and Victorians,” he said. “We want to see more live sites across Australia, and we encourage local and state governments nationwide to provide opportunities for fans to come together and experience the unique atmosphere of following a Fifa World Cup within their local communities.“

A senior government source told the Guardian the initial decision not to screen matches was made based on advice from Victoria police. The police’s media unit denied any involvement, however, and the Melbourne Arts Precinct declined to elaborate beyond issuing a statement.

“We welcome the Victorian government’s decision to support Fed Square in its ability to provide a safe and welcoming live site for the 2026 World Cup,” said Fed Square chief executive Katrina Sedgwick.

“We’ll work closely with the Victorian government, City of Melbourne and Victoria police to create a safe and secure environment, and we look forward to seeing the Socceroos back on the world stage, and on the big screen next month.”

Foster said Allan’s intervention was “the right decision for the community, the national team, the city of Melbourne global brand, the country”.

“Every major city needs fan zones and events to cheer on our national team in the most important sporting event there is,” he said. “Moments that bring us all together, build sense of community and last a lifetime.”

The precinct had cited the behaviour of some individuals at previous events for its approach.

Allan said the government will ensure Fed Square has the support it needs to put on the events, which have attracted more than 10,000 fans for previous tournaments.

She went further, promising the government was “looking at additional events and live sites” so fans have more options to watch.

AAMI Park and Rod Laver Arena have been used during recent World Cup tournaments as alternative live sites.

“There’s been in recent times, too much division, too many loud, boorish individuals wanting to define us. Well, I’m not not going to stand for that,” Allan said.

“Let’s come together, let’s enjoy these moments. Let’s cheer on the Socceroos, and let’s send a message loud and clear, no one’s going to get in the way of these moments where we get to join and celebrate as a nation our national team.”