VETO SPORTS State League Men’s 2025 promotion and relegation reminder

At the turn of the half-way point of the 2025 VETO Sports State League Men’s (SLM) season, Promotion and Relegation battles loom as we prepare for the new 7-division competition structure which comes into effect in 2026.

The new league structures, which were announced in December 2024, will see the SLM competition expand from the current 5-division structure to 7-divisions, marking a pivotal step forward for senior community football.

The decision, made after extensive consultation with Clubs, introduces a more streamlined and consistent framework for competition. Under the new model, all leagues within each division will be zoned geographically into North-West and South-East regions.

The updated structure changes will also see the introduction of a standardised Promotion and Relegation system across all divisions, providing clubs with a clear pathway for progression.

Football Victoria Manager of Community Competitions Dylan McKenzie believes the changes are a win for all State League clubs across the state.

“We’re incredibly excited to align with the senior community football pyramid and provide a clear pathway and consistent promotion and relegation system for our clubs.

“After consultation with clubs across the state, we are confident these changes place an emphasis on competitiveness and fairness across all divisions.”

The 2026 changes are summarised in the below tables:

For a detailed explanation of the 2025 Promotion and Relegation regulations head here.  

If you have any questions, please contact the competitions department on 03 9474 1800 and press ‘2’ for community competitions when prompted or via email: competitions@footballvictoria.com.au.