Following the confirmation of the National Second Tier (NST) format in October, Football Australia has today announced the launch of the Australian Championship, the official name and brand for the long-anticipated competition.
This transformative initiative marks the next era for Australian football, providing a new national platform to showcase the talent, passion, and heritage that unite communities across the country.
Scheduled to kick off in October 2025, the Australian Championship will feature 16 teams in a dynamic and sustainable format, blending eight Foundation Clubs with eight Member Federation Invitational Clubs selected from the National Premier Leagues (NPL).
This innovative format bridges state-based competitions with the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s pathway, redefining Australian football’s domestic football ecosystem and creating new opportunities for players, clubs, and communities to shine.
Football Australia Chief Executive Officer James Johnson hailed the Australian Championship as a bold leap forward for the sport: “The Australian Championship is much more than a competition – it’s a national celebration of football; uniting proud historic clubs, emerging talent, and inter-generational community connection. It reflects the core values of Australian football: authenticity, opportunity, and ambition.”
“This competition will complement the A-League, NPL, and Hahn Australia Cup, providing a connected, meaningful pathway for players and fans alike. Today’s brand launch is a statement of our commitment to grow domestic football in Australia and unlock its full potential,” Johnson added.
The competition format will include a group stage – four groups of four teams playing home and away matches – with the top 2 in each group crossing over to a high-stakes elimination Finals Series, culminating in the inaugural Australian Championship Final in early December 2025.
This innovative format prioritises competitive integrity, fan engagement, and commercial viability, creating a platform for players, clubs, and communities to thrive.
Designed to deliver competitive integrity, excitement, and commercial appeal, the Australian Championship will celebrate Australian football’s authenticity, ambition, and connection while engaging fans nationwide.
What the Australian Championship stands for
- Authenticity: Celebrating local clubs, iconic grounds, and historic rivalries.
- Discovery: Unveiling new talent and rising stars from across the country.
- Connection: Bridging state competitions, professional pathways, and grassroots football.
- Pride & Belonging: Uniting fans, players, and communities through football’s universal appeal.
Clubs and Pathways
The eight clubs confirmed as Australian Championship Foundation Clubs include APIA Leichhardt FC (NSW), Avondale FC (VIC), Marconi Stallions FC (NSW), Preston Lions FC (VIC), South Melbourne FC (VIC), Sydney Olympic FC (NSW), Sydney United 58 FC (NSW), and Wollongong Wolves FC (NSW).
These clubs represent the heart of Australian football with rich histories, fierce rivalries, and strong community ties. They will be joined by eight Member Federation NPL Clubs, drawn from their respective NPL competitions across Capital Football, Football Queensland, Football NSW, Football South Australia, Football Tasmania, Football Victoria, Football West and Northern NSW Football.
This unique structure ensures the Australian Championship remains inclusive, aspirational, and representative of the national football landscape.
Football fans are encouraged to follow the NPL competitions and Hahn Australia Cup around the country throughout the 2025 season to get a glimpse of the talent and rivalries set to feature in the Australian Championship. From the local grounds to the national stage, these clubs will bring the raw energy and excitement that define Australian football.
Brand Identity: Bold, Vibrant, and Dynamic
The Australian Championship’s brand identity, anchored by the theme of “Breakthrough,” reflects the competition’s energy, ambition, and momentum. Its bold design features Championship Green and Deep Steel, symbolising growth, resilience, and unity while celebrating the raw talent and vibrant communities that make Australian football unique.
Stay Connected and Join the Journey
Fans can stay up to date with the Australian Championship by visiting the official website and following its social media channels. A dedicated fan registration page through Football Australia’s Football Account, offers exclusive access to news, ticketing information, competitions, and more as the countdown begins to October 2025.
Further announcements, including fixtures, participating NPL teams, broadcast details, and commercial partnerships, will be made in the lead-up to the competition’s historic debut in October 2025.
