A New Era for Football in Sydney
The Sydney Football League (SFL) will become New South Wales’ premier Australian Rules Football Competition from 2027.
Established following a comprehensive competition review and extensive consultation with clubs, stakeholders, partners and the AFL Commission and Executive, the SFL has been designed to elevate the standard of football across Sydney while strengthening opportunities for talent development and retention.
The SFL has been created to:
- Elevate the standard of Australian football across Greater Sydney
- Develop, retain and attract talented players, coaches, umpires and officials
- Provide a clear premier pathway within New South Wales
- Strengthen connections with existing talent pathways and national football structures
- Deliver a truly Sydney-wide competition representing key regions across the city
The competition will complement existing pathways, including the Talent League, and sit alongside other premier state competitions such as Queensland’s QAFL.
Competition Structure
The SFL will feature four divisions from its inaugural season:
- Senior Men's
- Senior Women's
- Under 19.5 Men's
- Under 20 Women's
The four-tier structure will provide opportunities for emerging and established talent while supporting the continued growth of football across New South Wales.
Foundation Clubs
Nine foundation clubs have been awarded licences to compete in the SFL from 2027 following a competitive tender and assessment process.
| CLUBS | REGION |
| South West Sydney Blues | South West |
| St George Dragons | South |
| Sydney University | City & Inner West |
| UNSW Eastern Suburbs Bulldogs | East-Bayside |
| UTS Australian Football Club Bats | East Parkside |
| North Shore Bombers | North Shore |
| Manly Warringah Wolves | Northern Beaches |
| Pennant Hills Demons | North West |
| East Coast Eagles | West |
