Dear Clubs,

Football Queensland is pleased to confirm the implementation of the fifth and final stage of transformation to the FQ Academy Leagues Girls competition structure, last communicated in September 2025. 

In line with the ongoing progression of female participation across the state and country, the competition structure evolution has been designed to enhance competitive playing opportunities for young female players and will bring the FQ Academy Leagues Girls competitions into full alignment with the FQ Academy Boys pathway. 

Under 9/10 Girls 

As outlined in FQ Memo 33-25, the Under 9/10 Girls age group will become part of the regular FQ Academy Leagues competition structure from 2027, with mandatory participation in this league for FQ Academy League 1 Gold rated clubs only at this stage following optional participation in 2026. 

The implementation of the Under 9/10 Girls age group provides an earlier focus on establishing sound technical competencies in young female players in line with their male peers.   

Under 16 Girls and Under 18 Girls 

2027 will also see the introduction of the final youth cohort with the addition of an Under 16 Girls age group, resulting in an additional age group of best practice delivery supported through the FQ Club Development and Assessment process. 

The introduction of the Under 16 Girls age group will bring the youth age group structures for both boys and girls into alignment from 2027. 

The transition of the existing youth age group from Under 17 Girls to Under 18 Girls will also take place from 2027 and provide a critical bridge from Youth to Senior football (Under 23 and Seniors), delivering a continuous pathway for female players within the FQ Academy system and closing out the player journey. 

Further information on club league placements for 2027 will be released in due course in line with FQ’s club assessment timeline. 

Any further enquiries can be directed to Football Queensland via technical@footballqueensland.com.au 

End.