Football Australia reveals ‘Champions League’ style national second tier competition

Following the confirmation of its National Second Tier (NST) format in October last year and described as offering “a national stage for clubs, communities and the future” of the game, Football Australia has this week revealed the ‘Australian Championship’.

Releasing the official name and brand for the long-anticipated competition, a statement from Football Australia advised that the competition provides “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 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.

It will feature blend eight foundation clubs with eight member federation invitational clubs selected from the National Premier Leagues (NPL).

The long-awaited move will include a group stage - four groups of four teams playing home and away matches - with the top two in each group crossing over to a elimination Finals Series, culminating in the inaugural Australian Championship Final in early December 2025.

Introducing the competition, Football Australia Chief Executive, James Johnson stated “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.”

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.

The initial plan to launch a standalone, home-and-away league in November 2023 was the preferred option of the eight foundation clubs unveiled.

However, challenges in finding at least four more clubs from a further two states that met its necessary sporting, financial, and geographic criteria forced Football Australia to alter its plans in the 15 months since

Brand Identity
The Australian Championship’s brand identity aims to reflect the competition’s energy, ambition, and momentum with a design featuring Championship Green and Deep Steel, symbolising growth, resilience, and unity while celebrating the raw talent and vibrant communities that make Australian football unique.

Images: Australian Championship sides Sydney Olympic and Marconi Stallions clash in NSW National Premier Leagues competition (top, credit: Football NSW) and the logo for the Australian Championship (below, credit: Football Australia).