By Bill Roumeliotis
Football Australia has officially unveiled the Australian Championship trophy – a bold and contemporary symbol of the country’s newest national domestic competition – at Lakeside Stadium ahead of Sunday’s match between South Melbourne FC and Preston Lions.
The reveal marks a key milestone in the build-up to the inaugural Australian Championship season, set to kick off on Friday, 10 October 2025, when South Melbourne hosts Sydney Olympic in what will be a historic opener.
Crafted by Sydney-based firm D3 Design, the trophy features a base made of Australian Blackwood – a native timber known for its strength and resilience. It is adorned with a sterling silver winner’s ring etched with the Australian Championship logo, ready to be engraved with the name of the first champions.
Nine upward-facing nickel-plated shards rise from the base, representing the competition’s core theme of “breakthrough,” while a classic black felt foundation proudly displays the Football Australia emblem.
“This trophy is more than just silverware; it represents transformative change for the domestic club football eco-system in Australia,” Nathan Godfrey, General Manager – Australian Championship, said.
“The Australian Championship was created with the fan experience in mind, and we look forward to taking the trophy on tour to each of the eight foundation clubs throughout the conclusion of the NPL state competitions. We can’t wait to see it held high by the inaugural champions in December.”
Interim Chief Executive Officer of Football Australia, Heather Garriock, added: “The Australian Championship will be a major step forward in elevating our domestic football pyramid and an exciting addition to the football calendar.
“I hope this trophy reflects that ambition and will come to symbolise much more than victory. It should represent the journey of every club, every player and every supporter who believes in the future of Australian football.”
The trophy was presented pre-match on Sunday by the presidents of both clubs – Nick Maikousis of South Melbourne FC and David Cvetkovski of Preston Lions – in a symbolic gesture of friendship and shared contribution to the formation of the Australian Championship. Applause from the 5,000-strong crowd welcomed the presentation.
Later, during halftime, the trophy was again showcased in South Melbourne’s VIP lounge, where football officials, club sponsors, local politicians and members of the Greek-Australian community gathered to celebrate the moment.
Fans at the match were also encouraged to take photos with the trophy as part of a campaign to generate excitement and connection with the new competition. Football Australia has confirmed that the trophy will tour all eight foundation clubs in the months leading up to the first matchday.
Further announcements regarding participating clubs, fixture details, broadcast arrangements and commercial partnerships will be made in the lead-up to the Championship’s debut in October.
*All photos by Bill Roumeliotis.
