Key highlights of the NST competition model for 2025 include: 

• Commitment to Play: Football Australia, alongside the NST Foundation Clubs and key stakeholders, share a commitment to launch the NST Competition in 2025. This decision ensures alignment with the original strategic objectives of connecting the football pyramid in Australia and elevating iconic clubs to the national stage.
• New Competition Structure: The NST will feature a 16-team format, consisting of group stage matches and culminating in an elimination Finals Series. This structure has been designed to ensure the competition model is sustainable while maintaining a high degree of competitive integrity and commercial appeal.
• Team Composition: The eight NST Foundation Clubs will be granted automatic access and are joined by eight invitational clubs comprised of the Member Federation NPL State Premiers from the respective domestic season - delivering a national competition.
• Season Timeline: The NST competition will be held annually between October and December, initially across nine matchday rounds, and concluding with a Championship Final in early December. The spring calendar window provides the agility to expand and align within the Domestic Match Calendar ensuring optimal fixturing for players, fans, and stakeholders.
• Brand Launch: Football Australia can confirm the competition’s name, brand identity, marketing collateral, and the new trophy design will be unveiled in the coming months, setting the stage for a memorable debut season.