In a landmark development for Australian football, the long-awaited national second tier competition has been confirmed to kick off in October 2025. The announcement from Football Australia marks a major step forward for the sport and is set to provide a new platform for clubs and talent across the country to shine.
16 Clubs, Champions League-Style Format
The new tournament will feature 16 clubs from each state and territory, including eight foundation members recognized for their historical significance and contributions to Australian football. These iconic clubs are:
- APIA Leichhardt
- Avondale
- Marconi
- Preston Lions
- South Melbourne
- Sydney Olympic
- Sydney United 58
- Wollongong Wolves
Interestingly, Avondale is the only foundation club that was not previously part of the now-defunct National Soccer League, underlining their meteoric rise in recent years.
The remaining eight spots will be filled by the premiers of the existing National Premier League competitions across the country. This ensures geographical representation from:
- New South Wales
- Northern New South Wales
- Victoria
- South Australia
- Western Australia
- Australian Capital Territory
- Tasmania
- Queensland
In an format reminiscent of Europe’s old Champions League structure, the 16 teams will be divided into four groups of four. They will play home-and-away fixtures within their groups, with the top two from each advancing to a knockout stage.
This exciting knockout phase will culminate in a grand final in early December, where the first ever champion of Australia’s national second tier will be crowned in what promises to be a historic occasion for the sport.
A “Landmark Moment” for Australian Football
Football Australia chief executive James Johnson hailed the introduction of the national second tier as a “landmark moment” for the game in the country. He emphasized the governing body’s commitment to “creating a competition that not only elevates our game but also enriches the football community at all levels.”
“The national second tier will provide a new platform for iconic clubs to showcase their talent and connect with fans nationwide.”
– James Johnson, Football Australia CEO
The announcement comes after prolonged discussions between Football Australia, the eight foundation clubs, and other key stakeholders in the football community. The collaborative effort underscores the significance of this development and the unity of vision for growing the game.
Name, Trophy, and Future Plans
While the official name of the competition and the trophy the clubs will be vying for are yet to be revealed, Football Australia has indicated these details will be unveiled in the lead-up to the October 2025 start date. The governing body is likely to engage fans and the broader football community in this process to ensure maximum buy-in and excitement.
Looking further ahead, Football Australia has also shared its long-term vision for the national second tier to evolve from the initial Champions League-style format into a full home-and-away season league. This would represent a natural progression as the competition matures and cements its place in the Australian football landscape.
However, question marks remain over how promotion and relegation between the A-League Men and the national second tier would work, if implemented at all. While this is a contentious issue that divides opinion, what’s clear is that a well-implemented second tier has the potential to revolutionize the Australian football ecosystem.
Excitement Building Across the Country
The confirmation of the national second tier has been met with enthusiasm from clubs, players, and fans alike. Many see it as a missing piece of the puzzle in Australia’s football development pathway, providing a crucial link between the semi-professional NPL competitions and the fully professional A-League.
For the foundation clubs in particular, it represents an opportunity to write a new chapter in their storied histories and introduce themselves to a new generation of fans across Australia. The likes of South Melbourne, Marconi, and Sydney Olympic are names that resonate deeply with football traditionalists and the communities they represent.
Players too are excited by the prospect of a new national stage on which to showcase their talents. With many young Australian footballers struggling for opportunities at the highest level, the national second tier could prove to be the ideal proving ground for the stars of tomorrow.
“As a player, you always want to test yourself at the highest possible level. The national second tier is going to provide that platform for so many talented footballers across the country who are hungry for an opportunity.”
– Football Australia source
Fans, meanwhile, are already dreaming of away days and crosstown rivalries reborn. The prospect of a return to the passionate atmospheres and tribal loyalties of the NSL era is a mouth-watering one for those who remember Australian football’s golden age.
Of course, challenges remain in terms of logistics, infrastructure, and ensuring the financial viability of the competition and its clubs. But with a clear vision, strong leadership, and the unified support of the football community, there’s reason to believe the national second tier can thrive and become a vital part of Australia’s sporting landscape.
The Countdown Is On
As the countdown to October 2025 begins, the hard work continues behind the scenes to bring the national second tier to life. From branding and marketing to infrastructure upgrades and player recruitment, there’s plenty to be done to ensure the competition hits the ground running.
But for now, Australian football can bask in the glow of a historic announcement and dream of the possibilities ahead. The national second tier represents a new era for the game in the country, one that promises excitement, opportunity, and growth at every level.
So let the countdown begin – Australian football’s bright future starts now with the launch of the national second tier.
