Football Australia announces new National Second Division start, structure, potential clubs
The long-awaited National Second Division is now set to kick off in October next year with a new structure and potential new clubs revealed.
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A new National Second Division start date, new structure and six potential new clubs have been revealed by Football Australia.
The long-awaited second tier of Australian football had been close to collapsing due to Football Australia’s financial issues.
However, the competition is now set to kick off in October next year, delayed from an originally proposed March start.
The NSD will feature 16 teams – eight to-be-decided teams joining the eight foundations clubs – in a group stage model and concluding with a finals series.
The eight foundation clubs will be granted automatic entry and be joined by eight clubs comprised of NPL state premiers from each respective domestic competition.
The competition will run across nine weeks from October to December.
Eight clubs were locked in to launch the new league in 2023, four from NSW and four from Victoria.
APIA Leichhardt, Avondale, Marconi Stallions, Preston Lions, South Melbourne, Sydney Olympic, Sydney United 58 and Wollongong Wolves will be recognised as foundation members.
Six clubs have since been recognised as potential additions but could not meet financial requirements to play a full standalone home-and-away season as originally proposed.
Those clubs have been revealed as Adelaide City from South Australia, Caroline Springs George Cross from Victoria, Gold Coast United and Sunshine Coast from Queensland, Gungahlin United from the ACT and South Hobart FC from Tasmania.
Heidelberg United had also been in the running.
Football Australia believes the new competition dates and structure will better align the NSD with the A-League calendar.
FA CEO James Johnson labelled the announcement as a “landmark moment”.
“The introduction of the National Second Tier is a landmark moment for football in Australia,” he said.
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“Following productive discussions with our eight foundation clubs and consultation with other stakeholders, we are committed 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.”
In making the announcement, Football Australia committed to a third selection process to further the pool of potential clubs.
A competition name and new trophy design will be unveiled in the coming months.
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