The National Premier Leagues Northern NSW is a regional Australian Professional association football league comprising teams from Northern New South Wales. As a subdivision of the National Premier Leagues, the league sits at Level 1 on the Northern New South Wales league system (Level 2 of the overall Australian league system). The competition is administered by Northern NSW Football, the governing body of the sport in the northern region of the state (the southern region is mostly governed by Football NSW). Prior to 2014, the league was formerly known as the Northern NSW State Football League.

History

The league originally started with 12 teams, all with a first grade, reserve grade and youth grade team. The league was then downsized to 10 teams still with all three grades. For the 2009 season it was decided by Northern New South Wales Football (the governing body) to downsize the league once again to 8 teams in order to improve the quality and give local players a chance to enter the A-league through the competition. The teams competing in the 2009 season were decided on the second of September 2008, with Highfields Azzurri FC and Lake Macquarie City Roosters FC being relegated to the Northern NSW State League Division 1.

Teams were judged on criteria which included facilities/ground (30%), financial status (25%), management (20%), playing strength/coaching staff (15%) and development program (10%). An independent body, chaired by former NSW gaming minister Richard Face, was assigned to make the decision.

From the 2017 season onward the competition once again expanded to 11 teams with Lake Macquarie being promoted from the Northern NSW State League Division 1.

From the 2020 season onward the competition contracted back to 10 teams after Newcastle Jets Youth transferred into the NPL New South Wales structure, now playing in the NPL NSW 4 competition. The reason was because the Newcastle Jets and Northern NSW Football believed that transferring the Youth Jets to the Sydney-centred competition would help develop their youth players.

From the 2022 season onward the competition once again expanded to 11 teams with the inclusion of Cooks Hill United being promoted from the HIT Northern League One.

From the 2023 season onward the competition once again expanded to 12 teams with the inclusion of New Lambton being promoted from the HIT Northern League One.

The Australia Northern NSW Premier League is a premier soccer competition that showcases the best talent in the northern region of New South Wales. Established to promote and develop the sport at a grassroots level, the league features a diverse array of clubs, each representing their local communities with pride and passion.

Competing teams engage in a thrilling season of matches, where skill, strategy, and teamwork are put to the test on the pitch. The league not only serves as a platform for aspiring players to showcase their abilities but also fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among participants and fans alike.

With a focus on nurturing young talent, the Northern NSW Premier League is a vital stepping stone for players aiming to progress to higher levels of competition, including national leagues and professional opportunities. The tournament is characterized by its vibrant atmosphere, with dedicated supporters cheering on their teams, creating an electric environment at every match.

Throughout the season, clubs compete for the coveted championship title, culminating in a thrilling finals series that determines the league champion. The Northern NSW Premier League is not just about the game; it’s about building community, promoting healthy competition, and celebrating the beautiful game of soccer in Australia.