Football Victoria (FV) has confirmed ten clubs will join VETO Sports State League Women's 4 in 2027, marking a significant milestone in the transformation of senior women's football across Victoria.
The announcement forms part of FV's broader commitment to strengthening women's football, creating better experiences for players and ensuring the game continues to grow sustainably at every level.
Following an extensive review and consultation process and as announced in September, a new senior women's competition structure will be introduced in 2027, designed to deliver more competitive leagues, clearer player pathways and greater opportunities for women to participate in football in a way that suits their ambition and motivation for playing football.
The reforms recognise that as women's football continues to grow, the competitions supporting it must evolve too. The changes were informed by feedback from more than 400 senior female players, consultation with clubs and collaboration with the FV Football Development Committee and Football Advisory Panel.
As part of the transition to the new structure, FV invited applications from clubs seeking to join VETO State League Women's Division 4 for the 2027 season. Applications were assessed against a range of criteria, including:
- Women's and girls' programs: Existing participation and development opportunities for female players
- Player pathways: Opportunities for junior girls to progress into senior football
- Playing history: Recent performances and demonstrated experience in senior women's football
- Proposed squads: Player numbers and readiness to compete at State League level
- Coaching: Coaching resources and capability to support player development
- Facilities: Access to suitable facilities to support the delivery of a senior women's program
- Financial requirements: Capacity to meet the financial commitments of competing at State League level
Following this process, FV is pleased to confirm the following ten clubs have successfully secured places in VETO State League Women's Division 4 for 2027:
- Mount Eliza SC
- Surf Coast FC
- Yarraville FC
- East Bentleigh SC
- Bunyip & District SC
- Berwick City SC
- Frankston Pines SC
- Werribee City FC
- Berwick Churches SC
- Northcote City FC
All remaining applicant clubs have been accepted into the new Women’s Community League for 2027, ensuring continued opportunities for women across Victoria to participate in competitive football.
FV Executive Manager Operations and Membership, Frank Karatzas, said the reforms demonstrate FV's commitment to improve the experience of women and girls across the game.
"We're delighted to welcome these ten clubs into the VETO Sports State League Women's 4.
“There was significant interest in the available vacancies and we thank all applicant clubs for the quality of their submissions and their demonstrated commitment to the growth and development of women’s football.
"Today’s announcement is an important milestone, but is also part of a much bigger journey. We look forward to seeing how these reforms enhance the experience for women in football and keep them connected to our game for years to come."