I think FFA fears that if they don't restrict NZ players in the A League by having them deemed imports then the A League sides will see NZ as a good source of relatively cheap and useful squad members, just like the state leagues currently do. I'd say there are probably a dozen NZ players not tied to the Phoenix who could be included in other A League rosters right now. That would translate into a bigger pool of professional NZ players and thus a stronger All Whites down the line. I don't think the FFA sees that in their interest, even though we're in different confederations because one day NZ just might join the Asian confederation if Oceania is downgraded. The other Asian confederation members probably share this sentiment too.
I can see no other reason for the current restrictions being placed on NZ players in the A League and the unfair restrictions imposed on the Phoenix. For this reason alone I think NZ players should be a priority at the Phoenix, almost to the extent that if a potential/actual All White is available he should be signed over an imported player. The only problem could be is if the Phoenix fielded a majority NZ squad, then FFA might get nervous about it becoming a shadow All Whites using the A League for development and pull the plug on NZ participation. I think we'd be foolish to think the FFA has our best interests at heart.
Why are you looking at the FFA in that way?. They have (And didn't have to) went directly to the AFC meeting @ there HQ and asked to have the Nix's in the ACL should they qualify.
The FFA also has allowed the Nix's to participate in its FFA Cup (because of more politics about Chatham cup).
The FFA Cup will allow kiwi contingent guys like Michael Eagar to get some lime-light to shine should his or other teams(With kiwi's) make the last 32. And should they win get a chance to play in the ACL.