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2024 FQ Rules of Competition For Community Leagues
2024 FQ Rules of Competition For Community Leagues
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VERSION CONTROL
Date Version Details Author
Approval
Approving Officer
Dated: 10/01/2024
Due to the large demographic variance and associated competition structures in each region there will
be rule variations to maintain optimum viable football competitions. All rules will apply unless a rule is
specifically labelled to a region(s). Regions will include:
a) Regional (all regional areas listed below). Where the competition rules refer to “Regional” it will
encompass all regions below otherwise individual regions will be listed if specific rules apply only
to that region.
(i) Far North and Gulf (Cairns)
(ii) Mt Isa (Mt Isa)
(iii) Northern (Townsville)
(iv) Whitsunday Coast (Mackay)
(v) Central Coast (Rockhampton, Capricorn Coast, Central Highlands, Biloela, Gladstone)
(vi) Wide Bay (Bundaberg, Maryborough, Hervey Bay)
(vii) Darling Downs (Toowoomba, Stanthorpe, South Burnett)
(viii) Sunshine Coast (Sunshine Coast)
(ix) South Coast (Gold Coast)
b) Metro (Greater Metropolitan Brisbane region, both North and South of the River)
Away Club/Team – The Club/Team not playing the match at its home ground and/or appearing
second on the fixture list in the event a match is conducted at a neutral venue.
Facilities Lighting Standards – refers to the Football Queensland Facilities Lighting Standards
Policy as available through Football Queensland and adhering to the Australian Sports Lighting
Standards.
Field of Play (FOP) – An enclosed pitch with the entire area within temporary or permanent perimeter
fencing; or an open pitch with the entire area within three (3) metres of the boundary line of a football
pitch.
FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) – The world governing body of Football.
Final – A competitive match played to determine the winner of a Finals Series or Cup competition
administered by Football Queensland.
Finals Series – A set of competitive fixtures played separate to the Regular Season to determine the winner
Football Queensland Statewide Rules of Competition Version 2024.0.1 Page 6 of 52
of the Championship as administered by Football Queensland.
First Grade – The top team within a club's FQPL squad (not the U23's).
Fixture – Any match played in a Football Queensland Competition, Cup, other event or tournament under
Football Queensland's administration.
Fixture Suspensions – An imposed number of match(es) where a participant is disallowed from
participating as a result of disciplinary action.
Forfeit – The failure of a team to participate in a Competition Fixture.
FQ (Football Queensland) – Queensland’s governing football body.
FQ By-Law 9 – The current Football Queensland Grievance, Discipline and Tribunal By-Law (which may be
amended as appropriate).
Laws of the Game (LOTG) – The official laws of the game of football and futsal as promulgated by
IFAB and FIFA.
Penalty Shoot-Out – The alternate taking of penalty kicks from a penalty spot to determine a winner
in accordance with FIFA regulations where a match requires a result.
Playing Facilities Standards – The minimum standards a club must adhere to, to be eligible to host
fixtures, in accordance with the Football Queensland Playing Facilities Standards Policy.
Regional – Footballing activities conducted in regions of Queensland other than the metropolitan
Brisbane region. Regions include; South Coast, Darling Downs, Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay, Central
Coast, Whitsunday Coast, Northern and Far North & Gulf.
Registered – A player, team official, club official, match day coach, club Match Official or FQ Match Official
who is registered in accordance with the applicable Football Queensland Registration Regulations, and/or
FA National Registration Regulations, including without limitation seeking an International Transfer
Certificate (ITC) where applicable.
Regular Season – The duration of the season, not including Finals Series.
Replica Strip – The shirt/shorts/attire of another club or team, be it professional or amateur (e.g.
Newcastle United replica jersey).
Rules of Competition (RoC) – Referring to this document and all associated stipulations, policies,
and statutes referred to and herewith.
Sanctioned Match – Any match(es) Football Queensland approves to be played in accordance with the
Football Queensland Sanctioning Policy. This includes matches to which Football Queensland does not
appoint Match Officials.
Squadi – Football Queensland’s National Registration & Competition Management system.
Team - A football team entered by a club in a League/Competition administered by Football Queensland.
Team Official – A coach, assistant coach, manager, physio/medical staff or other club registered
participants who is listed on a Squadi Team Sheet and is allowed in the technical area during a match.
Under 23s (U23s) – The supplementary team to the ‘First Grade’ FQPL squad.
Unregistered – A player or club official who is not registered in Squadi.
Venue Managers – The business/person of football facilities not directly leased, owned or managed
by a club.
b) The Rules of Competition outlined herein are complementary to the official Laws of the Game
(LOTG) as determined by IFAB on an annual basis and can be found here.
c) All clubs, players and officials must comply with and agree to abide by the regulations of Football
Australia and Football Queensland including;
(i) National Registration Regulations
(vii) Any other relevant or applicable statutes, policies or regulations including the FQ
Disciplinary Regulations and FQ By-Laws.
(viii) Clubs must remain financial with Football Queensland and adhere to competition rules 2.2.
v. Deduct points from a club [or team(s)] for the following season where the debt remains
unpaid or accrues after 2 weeks of the completion of the outdoor season.
If Football Queensland and a club agree to a repayment plan relating to a debt owed to Football
b) To field an additional team in a single division, the club must be able to field separate teams. Player
movement will not be permitted to move between teams.
c) FQ, with feedback from clubs, will determine the number of matches to be played in each division
once the final composition is determined.
d) All competitions within Football Queensland will be contested on a “Home and Away” basis,
where possible.
e) In all competitive age groups and divisions at the conclusion of the regular season, the team that
finishes with the highest number of points is deemed the Premiers. In the event multiple teams are
equal on points, refer to section 2.9 to determine their placing.
f) At the conclusion of the regular season, the top four (4) placed teams will participate in a Finals
Series to determine the Grand Final Champions and Runners-Up. In the event multiple teams are
equal on points, refer to section 2.9 to determine their placing.
g) In the event a team has insufficient numbers to play a fixtured match, the highest division in each
age group takes priority and must be filled, consideration will be applied if the difference between
the two teams is significant. If a club fields a team in a lower division but not the higher division,
both teams may be deemed to have forfeited and subject to Penalties and Outcomes as detailed in
the Fines and Penalties Document.
h) FQ may instruct clubs to combine to form a team in a particular age if it is necessary to form a
viable competition. The playing strip will be agreed to by both clubs at the start of the season with
the guidance from FQ Competition Management.
b) All clubs participating in FQPL must hold, and be compliant with, their relevant FQPL license.
There are no finals in the Under 12 competition and scoring will not be recorded for these age groups.
i. The team in the division below will also be relegated to a lower division (if available). If this
occurs, the team who finished 2nd last in the lower division at the conclusion of the regular
season will not be relegated.
ii. If no lower division is available, the club will only be permitted to have one team which will
be included in the lowest division.
e) As clubs are only permitted to have one team within any FQPL division, if the club’s team in the
higher division is not in a relegation or promotion position, but the lower division team finishes in
a promotion position, they will not be eligible to be promoted. If that occurs the next placed team
in the lower division will be eligible for promotion.
a) The team who finished 2nd last in the higher division will be offered the opportunity to not be
relegated.
b) If they decline the opportunity, or a further vacancy arises, the team who finished last in the higher
division will be offered the opportunity to not be relegated.
c) If they also decline the opportunity, or a further vacancy arises, the position will then be offered to
the next highest placed team in the lower division, that has not yet been promoted, until a club(s)
accepts the invitation.
d) In the case of FQPL 2 (where a promotional SEQ playoff is executed), any vacancy that becomes
available rule 2.3.10.c will not apply and Football Queensland reserves the right to seek
applications from any other club to fill the vacancy.
In competitions where no relegation exists, or a vacancy occurs due to a team withdrawal or request for
relegation, Football Queensland can, if they choose, seek applications from any other club to fill the
vacancy.
NOTE: Promotion and relegation rules/procedures may be subject to change, due to variations in
competition structures.
b) FQPL 3 – 6 First Grade Men: During the finals series if an FQPL First Grade competitions proceeds
to extra time, teams are permitted to utilise the additional listed substitution and one additional
substitution stoppage opportunity (regardless of whether the team has already used the full
number of 5 permitted regular time substitutes or 3 regular time substitution stoppage
opportunities). This brings each teams’ total to 6 substitutions and 4 substitution stoppage
opportunities for the entirety of the match.
c) FQPL 3 Women, FQPL 3 – 6 Under 23 Men: teams may list a maximum of 16 players on the Squadi
Team Sheet (a starting 11 and 5 substitutes). In all competitions unlimited Return Substitutions
(Interchange) is permitted and a player who has been substituted may return to the field for
another player. Any player that is listed on the Squadi Team Sheet is deemed to have participated
NOTE: The number referenced above refers to the maximum number of Visa players listed on the Team
Sheet in any First Team Fixture.
b) FAR NORTH & NORTHERN: In exception to Rule 2.4.9a, all teams must submit a Squadi Team
Sheet. Teams that do not submit a Squadi Team Sheet with the full contingency of players after
Round 4 may be subject to ineligible player fines or withdrawal from the competition. A minimum
of 7 or a maximum of 14 players can be listed on the Squadi Team Sheet.
b) FAR NORTH & NORTHERN: In exception to Rule 2.4.9a, all teams must submit a Squadi Team
Sheet. Teams that do not submit a Squadi Team Sheet with the full contingency of players after
Round 4 may be subject to ineligible player fines or withdrawal from the competition. A minimum
of 7 or a maximum of 14 players can be listed on the Squadi Team Sheet.
A maximum of 5 team officials can be listed on a Squadi Team Sheet and allowed in the technical area
during a match. Team Officials can include; a Coach, Assistant Coach, Manager, Physio/Medical Staff,
and an Assistant. If a team official is not listed on the Squadi Team Sheet the match official can expel
them from the technical area. They will also be deemed as an “ineligible player” and subject to fines
and penalties as per section 4.15.
Clubs are accountable for their appointed Team Officials and they should be made aware that they are
governed by a Code of Conduct. Penalties of suspension of Team Officials, fines, and other penalties
and outcomes can be levied upon clubs, where it is found that Team Officials have breached the Code
of Conduct.
It is the Team Officials’ responsibility to ensure:
a) The team has a minimum number of seven (7) players to commence the match.
b) That the team does not list more than the allowable players on the Squadi Team Sheet.
c) All players taking the field are eligible to play.
d) All players taking the field of play are listed on the Squadi Team Sheet.
e) All players are ready to commence the fixture at the scheduled kick-off time.
f) Players’ behave responsibly before, during and after any game.
b) All other senior matches (FQPL and Community competitions) will normally be scheduled between
Friday and Sunday each week. Where two or more senior teams from the same club are playing at
home on the same day, these matches must be scheduled consecutively where possible.
Sunday
No senior matches will be scheduled to commence before 9.00am
No senior matches will be scheduled to commence later than 7.00pm
This is a general guide and Football Queensland reserves the right to scheduled games outside of these
times if required or if exemptions are granted.
Exemptions may be granted in the case of public holidays or where both teams agree, for any fixture(s).
Any request for an exception must be submitted in writing to Football Queensland for approval and the
decision made will be final. The request must be submitted in line with the fixture amendment process.
FQPL 3 – 6 Men and FQPL 3 Sunshine Coast Women: Where there are clashes between the First Team
and the Under 23’s (i.e., teams from the same club at different venues), the First Team match will take
priority for scheduling and the Under 23’s will be scheduled to avoid any clash (either with sufficient
time between the matches on the same day or on a different day).
Northern, Far Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday
North Gulf &
Mt Isa,
Whitsunday **Exceptions to days may be required for Remote Regional competitions and the where lighting
Coast permits allows for Girls Only MiniRoo competitions to be played on a Friday night.
NOTE: Metro Junior Competitions may be scheduled differently during term 2 to avoid clashes with the
School Football competition. For example, some Under 16 divisions will be scheduled on a Friday night
while Under 13 - 17 Girls, Under 14 Division 2 and below fixtures may be requested for Saturday to
assist with field availability.
d) Under 13 game times and format shall be as per Under 13 Playing Format.
e) The duration of matches for each age group are outlined in the table below. After normal time in
each half, the match official may add on injury/stoppage time as required, however, this is only
applicable for Senior Competitions. No extra time is added for Junior Competitions.
f) There will be no time added in Junior games, unless in the event of a serious injury requiring an
ambulance to be called to remove the injured player from the playing field. In this circumstance
the match may be abandoned, or additional injury/stoppage time may be added at the discretion
of the match official.
NOTE: No match results are to be recorded for MiniRoos and Under 12 age groups.
(v) Highest number of goals scored in matches between the teams concerned.
(vi) Lowest number of red cards accumulated.
(vii) Lowest number of yellow cards accumulated; and
(viii) Toss of a coin in the event of a tie of two (2) clubs or drawings of lots in the event of a tie of
three (3) or more clubs.
NOTE: As MiniRoos and the Under 12 age group do not keep score or play for points final season
placings will not be determined.
(i) METRO, SOUTH COAST, DARLING DOWNS REGIONS 2.10.3.a Exception: Community
Competitive Men and Women will not play extra time if the scores are equal after normal
time. Instead, they will go directly to a penalty shoot-out in accordance with FIFA regulations
will be taken to determine the winner (No extra time will be played).
b) Junior Under 13 – Under 18 Competitions: All finals matches will be played in accordance
with the fixture duration for each age group (See Table 2.7.1). If the scores are equal after normal
time, then 2 x 10-minute periods of extra time will be played in full. If the scores are still equal after
extra time, then a penalty shoot-out in accordance with FIFA regulations will be taken to determine
the winner.
c) FQ may re-arrange the draw so that the teams that were due to play the withdrawing team have a
bye. Where the competition already had a bye in each round, FQ may change the draw as it sees
fit to eliminate the bye.
d) FQ reserves the right to negotiate with another club/team to come into the competition as a
replacement. FQ also reserves the right to decide how points are attributed to the replacement
team for the remainder of the season.
e) The withdrawn club involved will be subject to potential disciplinary action, sanction, and
penalties. Please refer to the Fines and Penalties Document for further information.
f) Any actions taken by Football Queensland under this section as a result of a team withdrawal from
a competition is done so at its absolute discretion and is not subject to appeal.
d) In the event these provisions create an anomaly, or are impossible to adhere to, then FQ will
determine, in its sole discretion, the application of the above rules. The decision of Football
Queensland in this respect is not subject to appeal.
e) The club of the additional team involved may be subject to penalties as determined by FQ.
f) Note – Points accrued in another competition prior to being added to a new competition will not
carry over to the new competition unless FQ deems otherwise.
(ii) Has a 48-hour buffer from any other scheduled matches that may impact either team.
(iii) Meets facility standards including lighting if the match is to be scheduled at night.
(iv) Consideration for match official appointments (ie the pairing of the games).
Request made inside 14 days’ notice of the scheduled match must provide the following:
a) All requirements outlined in 3.3.3.c, as well as;
b) Available registered club Match Officials that may replace Football Queensland Match Officials for
the match and any paired matches if Football Queensland Match Officials are unable to meet the
new appointments.
NOTE: requests made outside of standard business hours just before a match will not be addressed. If
clubs do not proceed with the scheduled match, they may be deemed to have forfeited the match and
(ii) The impact on Match Official appointments, (including paired games - ie the game before
or after where the same Match Officials are appointed)
(iii) The availability of dates to replay the match.
d) FQPL Competitions with First Team and Under 23 teams: If matches in these competitions are
postponed or abandoned due to any circumstances, Football Queensland reserves the right to
reschedule matches on any day, time and venue and in any format as it sees fit. Under 23’s must
always be scheduled to be played before the First Grade Team, even if matches must be played
across different nights.
Any team that wishes to forfeit a match prior to the scheduled day and time must notify Football
Queensland through Squadi. Football Queensland will then notify the opposition team and match
officials.
Any team that is not ready to commence a fixture or finals match within 15 minutes of the scheduled
kick-off time commencing, (this includes the ground of the HOME team not being ready for kick-off
in the opinion of the match officials, i.e., the field must be correctly marked, with nets and corner posts
up and goals anchored if required), will be deemed to have forfeited the match.
Any club who receives a forfeit due to venue standards must contact FQ Competitions via Squadi prior
to 12pm of the next business day and outline the events that led to the match not being played.
A team deemed to have forfeited may submit a request to review the forfeit if they believe the forfeit
was caused by extraordinary circumstances. The request must be submitted by Club Management in
writing (or Squadi incident report) to Football Queensland within three (3) days of the forfeit. Football
Queensland will review the request and deliver a determination. Football Queensland’s decision
regarding the forfeit shall be in its absolute discretion and shall be final and not subject to appeal.
If any team forfeits a fixture for any reason on three or more occasions in the same competition season
without satisfactory explanation provided in writing to Football Queensland, they will be asked to show
cause as to why they should not be withdrawn from the competition. The decision of Football
Queensland to withdraw a team from the competition shall be in its absolute discretion and shall be final
and not subject to appeal.
Any team refusing or failing to play the team against which it has been drawn, shall be deemed to have
forfeited the game and must contact FQ Competitions prior to the match.
In FQPL Competitions, if a club does not have sufficient players to field an Under 23’s and First Team,
the 1st team shall take priority. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action against the offending club
and both the Under 23’s and First Team fixtures will be deemed a forfeit.
TIME RESULT
Abandoned before half-time Replay (unless clubs agree for the result to stand)
Abandoned during half-time break Result Stands
Abandoned into the second half Result stands
Any yellow or red cards issued during an abandoned match that has been overturned and a forfeit
Football Queensland’s determination on the outcome of any abandoned match shall be in its absolute
discretion and final and not subject to appeal.
c) For an individual to be eligible they MUST upload a current, recognizable, passport style photo to
their Squadi profile on registration to confirm the identity of the individual. Any player who does
not fulfill this requirement could be deemed an ineligible player for all matches they have
participated in. Sanctions and penalties may apply to clubs, teams and/or individuals as per
Section 4.15.
d) All players must be registered and active in Squadi in be eligible to participate in any fixtures.
e) Amateur players can register and are permitted to be registered at any time. The registration of a
player with a club is effective from the date of registration as approved in Squadi online
registration. Unless cancelled earlier, registration is effective from the date of the registration until
31st December of that year.
f) Amateur players are not permitted to re-register with another club within their region after 30th
June each year. This is only applicable to players within the same region, players from another
region (or member federation) are also permitted to register at any time. These players may still be
subject to finals eligibility clauses.
i. NOTE: Players are not able to register for any FQPL competitions after 30 June.
Players are only eligible to play in Senior Divisional and Junior Divisional Competitions. This
includes new registrations and players who are moving between clubs from a different
region. Players who register after 30 June are not eligible to be borrowed into the FQPL
competitions. These players may still be subject to finals eligibility clauses. Clubs may apply
for an exemption on this rule on behalf of the player. FQ will assess all exemption requests
based on their merits. The decision of Football Queensland will be in its absolute discretion
and shall be final and not subject to appeal.
b) A player is eligible to play in matches under the jurisdiction of FQ, provided they are
registered in line with Football Australia National Registration Status and Transfer Regulations
and Football Queensland Registration Procedures.
c) A player is eligible to play in matches under the jurisdiction of FQ, provided they are not under
suspension by any Federation; it is the responsibility of the player and club to be aware of their
suspension status.
d) A registered player is eligible to take part in matches under the jurisdiction of FQ provided they are
e) The player is not in breach of any visa player restrictions imposed by these rules of competition
(FQPL only).
f) The player is adhering to the correct grading and borrowing regulations as outlined in this
document.
If a player is found to have participated in a match while in breach of any of the above eligibility
requirements, the Penalties and Outcomes as per section 4.15 will apply.
b) In the event that a player is being borrowed by a team different than intended for their first fixture,
the club will need to advise the Football Queensland Competitions Team by completing the ad
hoc dispensation form for the player being borrowed by a higher team and inform of the player’s
correct team.
[METRO: The only exception to this rule is in the senior metro competitions, where players are
eligible to play without restriction during the first 4 scheduled rounds of the season to assist clubs
in the grading process of their players. After the scheduled round 4 date as per Season Calendar,
players will be graded into the team where they play their first fixture after the Round 4 scheduled
date. For avoidance of doubt if Round 4 is postponed due to severe weather the original Round 4
Season Calendar date will apply and the first game played after this date will be considered their
first fixture for grading purposes.]
c) If a Club has been given dispensation to have two or more teams in the same junior or senior
division, players are only permitted to play for one team in that competition division. This does not
exclude them from playing for other teams within the Club in other competition divisions (subject
to all Player Eligibility Rules).
d) If a player changes clubs during the season, then the “count” of matches played at a level does not
carry over from their previous club to their new club. There is no restriction on what division a
player can take part in for the new club so long as it is in line with competition rules 4.1.f. This does
not include Cup Competitions where restrictions may apply if a player changes clubs – see
relevant Cup Competition Rules.
e) The onus is on the club to be aware of where their player played their first fixture and was
subsequently graded. A club can enquire as to the ‘grading’ status of their player according to
their understanding, to Football Queensland, if required.
b) Boys turning 16 years of age in 2024, or girls turning 15 years of age in 2024 will be required to
complete an Ad Hoc Dispensation Request Form before participating in the senior competition.
c) REGIONAL: Masters (over 35’s) Players who participate in the Masters competition are also
eligible to participate without restriction in the Community Senior Competitions only. If a player is
borrowed into any FQPL division, they will be regraded to the FQPL division and will be unable to
return to the Masters competition.
d) SUNSHINE COAST: A player must be turning 35 year of age in the calendar year to be eligible to
play in the Masters Over 35 competition and turning 45 year of age in the calendar year to be
eligible to play in the Masters Over 45 Competition.
b) A team using a player from a lower division/age group at the expense of available players from
their own team is in breach of the spirit of this rule and may be subject to disciplinary action.
c) Participation in Cup Competitions does not contribute towards the number of times a player may
be borrowed into a higher competition.
d) There will be no restriction on the movement of players between FQPL and Under 23 match-day
squads week in and out.
(i) METRO: In exception to 4.6.1.d no more than 5 First Grade starting players may play in the
Under 23 division the following week. Clubs can submit an exemption request to play more
than the 5 starting players down in exceptional circumstances. The determination made by
Football Queensland in regard to the request will be final and not subject to appeal.
e) METRO, SOUTH COAST AND DARLING DOWNS REGIONS: Players may be borrowed to play
in higher ranked competitions but may only do so for a maximum of six (6) matches. The maximum
number refers to the total number of games the player has played and not to each team they may
play in. On the seventh (7th) game the player will be regarded as per section 4.10.
(i) The exception to above rule is players being borrowed into the FQPL 3 Metro Women
competition. The borrowing limit will be relaxed to 11 games for players graded to a Clubs
highest divisional Metro Community Womens Team.
f) SUNSHINE COAST, WIDE BAY, CENTRAL COAST, WHITSUNDAY COAST, NORTHERN AND
FAR NORTH & GULF REGIONS: Clubs may demote a maximum of four (4) players from the
previous round to a single division lower. They may not demote a player more than one (1) division
in a given round. E.g. A player cannot be demoted from Division 1 to Division 3.
g) FAR NORTH & GULF: Starting 11 players from First Division cannot play down into the Second
Division that same weekend (goals keepers are exempt from this rule)
h) FAR NORTH & GULF - MT ISA: Clubs are not permitted to play more than three (3) players up an
age group at any one time, without first being granted approval by FQ. Clubs may make an
application to FQ to allow additional players to play up.
i) DARLING DOWNS: For the 2024 season the Metro FQPL 5 and its U23 competition will be
deemed a higher level of competition than that of the Darling Downs FQPL 3 and U23 Men. The
following borrowing rule will apply for any club that participates in the both the Metro FQPL and
Darling Downs FQPL competitions.
(i) Players nominated in the FQPL3 team will be permitted to play in the FQPL5 competition
without restriction, however
(ii) The player may play a maximum of 6 games in the FQPL5 team/s and on his 7th, game will
be automatically regraded to the FQPL5 team/s and will not be permitted to return to
FQPL3 (including finals/play off games)
(iii) Clubs will be permitted to demote a maximum of three (3) U23 players from FQPL 5 to their
FQPL 3 Senior Squad in a given week. These players will not be permitted to play in any
FQPL5 (Main team or U23 team) (fixture on the same weekend and the player must be 23 or
younger.
b) If a club has two or more teams in the same senior division, junior players are not permitted to be
borrowed into both teams in that division. Clubs can submit an exemption request for exceptional
circumstances due to low player numbers. Any decision made by Football Queensland in regard
to the request will be final and not subject to appeal.
c) METRO: Junior Players graded into a Junior team who are turning 16 years of age (male) or 15 years
of age (female) may play in the NPL and FQPL First Team and Under 23 Team without restriction for
the purposes of development.
d) METRO: Junior players graded into a junior team may be borrowed into Senior Community teams
however, borrowing limits will apply. Players who have been listed on the Squadi Team Sheet
more than six (6) times in total in any higher Junior or Senior Community Divisional competition for
their current club will be regraded. Please refer to section 4.10.2. regarding rules and restrictions.
e) SOUTH COAST AND DARLING DOWNS: Age eligible junior players graded into a Junior Team
can be borrowed into senior competitions without restriction.
f) SUNSHINE COAST, WIDE BAY, CENTRAL COAST, WHITSUNDAY COAST, NORTHERN AND
FAR NORTH & GULF: Age eligible junior players graded into a Junior Team may be borrowed into
Senior FQPL and Community teams in an unlimited capacity, however senior borrowing rules will
apply.
For example: An Under 18 player is borrowed into the FQPL Under 23 team during Round 1. In
round 2 the player may only be borrowed in that division, the higher division or one division
lower. So, in this example in round 2 the player may return to playing for their Under 18 team
without restriction but also may be borrowed into the FQPL Main team, FQPL Under 23 team or
the Men’s Community Division 1 team. They player may not be borrowed into the Community Men
Division 2 team.
(i) The only exemption to this rule is age eligible junior girls being borrowed in the Northern
region FQPL Womens and Senior Womens Community competitions. They may continue to
be borrowed across both competitions without restriction.
NOTE: Although senior borrowing rules will apply, Junior Players will not be included in the 4 player
borrowing limit and can be used in addition to the 4 senior players.
a) All players in Football Queensland competitions are required to play in their eligible age group
unless dispensation has been granted by the Competitions Team. Any dispensation request made
to Football Queensland to play outside of a player’s eligible age group should be made only if in
the best interests of the individual player considering their technical, physical,
psychological and social development.
b) REGIONAL: Where a combined age group is required for competition viability players born in the
Eligible Year of Birth for each age may participate in the competition. For example, Players born in
2008 and 2009 may play in a Combined Under 15/16 competition. Players born either a year
above or below this age group must apply for dispensation to participate in the competition using
the permanent dispensation request form.
Age Competition Eligible Year of Birth Eligible in adherence with Competition Rule Limitations
Regional Players born in 2008 playing in a combined age
Under 18 Players born in the competition. Player must also receive FQ dispensation
years 2006 or 2007 approval.
Regional Players born in 2009 playing in a combined age
Under 17 Players born in the year competition. Player must also receive FQ dispensation
2007 or 2008
approval.
Under 16 Players born in 2008 Players born in 2009
Under 15 Players born in 2009 Players born in 2010
Under 14 Players born in 2010 Players born in 2011
Under 13 Players born in 2011 Players born in 2012
NOTE: Any player playing outside of their designated competition (up or down) as per their birth year
(reference table above), must apply to Football Queensland for dispensation through a Dispensation
Request form.
b) No team may have more than 2 players playing below their designated age group (e.g., an U14
Division 2 team may not have more than 2 players born in 2009 (15 years old) in their team). The
exception to this rule is for Girls Only teams, where a maximum of 3 players can be granted
dispensation into a team, upon application.
c) In any instance of a player wishing to play down an age group, the player’s club must submit a
Permanent Dispensation Request form to Football Queensland. The determination as to whether a
player can play below their designated age group shall be a decision for Football Queensland in
its absolute discretion and whose decision shall be final and not subject to appeal.
d) Clubs may seek dispensation for the following reasons:
(i) Playing below their designated age group due to physical size
(ii) Playing below their designated age group due to team viability
(iii) Playing below their designated age group due to being born in the last 3 months of the
year
(iv) Playing below their designated age group for social/cultural grounds
(v) Playing below their designated age group due to NEVER being previously registered under
FA or NEVER previously playing football
f) If dispensation is granted for a player to play down an age group, said player may be unable to be
borrowed into another team in their original age group under any circumstance at any point
throughout the season. If a player is found to have been borrowed into a team in their original age
group without approval from Football Queensland, they will be deemed to be an ineligible player.
g) Football Queensland reserves the right to revoke any dispensation approval regarding a player
playing below their designated age group at any point in time.
h) The decision of Football Queensland will be final on whether to allow a dispensation for a player to
play below their designated age group.
b) FAR NORTH/NORTHERN: In exception to rule 4.7.3.a, all players wanting to play one or more
years above their designated age group must be granted dispensation from FQ. All dispensation
requests must be submitted through the adhoc exemption request form.
c) Any players wishing to participate in age groups two or more years above their eligible age must
also complete the Permanent Dispensation Request Form for a determination from FQ.
d) In exception to rule 4.7.3.a any player wishing to play up in a combined age group i.e., an Under
15 Girl wanting to play in an Under 17 Girls competition or an Under 14 Boy wishing to play up in a
combined Under 15/16 competition, must complete an Ad hoc dispensation form.
All U13 competitions (excluding any combined No more than 6 players born in the year 2012 (turning
12 in 2024) can be listed on the Squadi Team Sheet
Under 12/13 age groups) for any fixture *this includes borrowed players
All U14 competitions (excluding any combined No more than 7 players born in the year 2011 (turning
Under 13/14 age groups) 13 in 2024) can be listed on the Squadi Team Sheet
for any fixture *this includes borrowed players
All U15 competitions (excluding any combined No more than 6 players born in the year 2010 (turning
Under 14/15 age groups) 14 in 2024) can be listed on the Squadi Team Sheet
for any fixture *this includes borrowed players
All U16 competitions (excluding any combined No more than 6 players born in the year 2009
Under 15/16 age groups) (turning 15 in 2024) can be listed on the Squadi Team
Sheet for any fixture *this includes borrowed players
Clubs may apply to Football Queensland to allow an exception to these restrictions in extraordinary
circumstances for a particular match or for the full season. The decision of Football Queensland will be
final on whether to allow an exception. There shall be no appeal from the decision of Football
Queensland in respect of the granting of an exception.
d) In the event that a club does not have options available to borrow players within the above
outlined rules, the club must apply to Football Queensland for Exception to borrow no more than
2 players that are not permitted to be borrowed within the above requirements, and to field no
more than 12 players’ total. This exception must be confirmed in writing before the player(s) can
take the field of play.
e) Players are not permitted to borrow from mixed teams to specific boys or girls teams or vice versa
without the consent of Football Queensland via an Adhoc Dispensation Form. The decision of
Football Queensland shall be in its absolute discretion and shall be final and not subject to appeal.
f) If a club is ever in doubt, please contact Football Queensland Competitions, PRIOR to adding
players onto a Squadi Team Sheet.
NOTE: For reference, please refer to the Appendix of Player Movement Tables.
(ii) If the number of games played are equal for two or more teams the player will be graded in
to the highest of the divisions.
Once the player is regraded into a team all previous borrowed games in any higher division will remain
as part of the player's borrowing tally. Should the player exceed the 6-game borrowing total in higher
divisions the player will further be regraded into the higher division.
(ii) If the number of games played are equal for two or more teams the player will be graded to
the highest of the divisions.
If a junior graded player exceeds the allowable borrows and subsequently become regraded into a
senior team, they will no longer be eligible to be borrowed freely into the FQPL First Team or Under 23
team and regular borrowing limits will apply from the time of regrading.
Once the player is regraded into a team all previous borrowed games in any higher Senior Community
divisions will remain as part of the player's borrowing tally including FQPL. Should the player exceed
the 6-game borrowing total in higher divisions the player will further be regraded into the higher
division.
.
4.10.3 Regrading of Junior Players in Junior Competitions [Regional Competitions]
SOUTH COAST, DARLING DOWNS REGIONS: In accordance with junior borrowing rules if a junior
player plays more than six (6) matches for any higher junior division(s)/age group(s) that player is no
longer eligible to play in their original division including finals and will be automatically regraded to the
higher division. Should the player have played for multiple age groups/divisions the player will be
graded into the team where;
(i) The player has played the greatest number of games.
(ii) If the number of games played are equal for two or more teams the player will be graded to
the highest of the divisions.
SUNSHINE COAST, WIDE BAY, CENTRAL COAST, NORTHERN, FAR NORTH AND GULF: In
accordance with Junior borrowing rules if a junior player plays more than six (6) matches for any higher
junior division(s) in their age group that player is no longer eligible to play in their original division and
will be automatically regraded to the higher division. Should the player have played for multiple
divisions the player will be graded into the team where;
(i) The player has played the greatest number of games.
(ii) If the number of games played are equal for two or more teams the player will be graded to
the highest of the divisions.
Players may be borrowed to play up an age group if required however FQ will monitor this and should
FQ deem that the club is taking advantage and continually playing a child repetitively across two age
groups FQ reserves the right to re-grade the player.
REGIONAL: Once the player is regraded into a team all previous borrowed games in any higher
division will remain as part of the players borrowing tally. Should the player exceed the 6-game
borrowing total in higher divisions the player will further be regraded into the higher division.
b) Clubs may apply to FQ to run their own internal MiniRoos competition. FQ may decline this
application in its absolute discretion, this is not subject to appeal.
c) In the event FQ grants the application all players must still be registered in Squadi.
b) REGIONAL: Players are eligible to play for the team in which they played the most games. If the
player has participated in an equal number of matches in two or more divisions, the player will be
deemed to be eligible for only the highest division and/or any higher division in the finals series.
c) REGIONAL: Eligible Junior Players may play in Senior Finals for the team in which they have
played the most games (Subject to Player Eligibility and Borrowing Rules). A junior player who has
not played in the senior competition during the regular season may apply for an exemption to play
in the finals series. The decision of Football Queensland will be final on whether to allow an
exception. There shall be no appeal from the decision of Football Queensland in respect of the
granting of an exception.
d) SOUTH COAST AND DARLING DOWNS REGIONS: In addition to rule 14.4.e A player must have
played a minimum of 6 games for the club in the team they intend to play finals for. They will also
be able to be borrowed into higher level competitions so long as they meet player eligibility and
borrowing rules.
f) SUNSHINE COAST, WIDE BAY, CENTRAL COAST, NORTHERN, FAR NORTH AND GULF: In
addition to rule 4.14.e. Players must have participated in a minimum of 6 matches for their club
across the season to participate in finals. For clarity purposes this is a minimum of 6 games in junior
competitions or a minimum of 6 games in a senior competition.
g) SUNSHINE COAST, WIDE BAY, CENTRAL COAST, NORTHERN, FAR NORTH AND GULF: In
addition to rule 4.14.f, Junior graded players may also participate in Senior Finals so long as they
meet the senior finals eligibility.
h) FAR NORTH AND GULF: In addition to 4.14.i. A player must have participated in five (5) fixture
rounds for the club, they are registered for that season to be eligible for finals.
i) FAR NORTH AND GULF: For the purpose of determining final series eligibility for junior divisions
against all girls' competitions, the junior age group will be considered a higher grade than the
girls only competition. A junior female player participating in both the junior girl’s competition
and the junior grade will not be permitted to play down into a younger junior grade competition
but may participate in a higher junior grade final.
j) FAR NORTH AND GULF: Players participating in the Gulf MiniRoos U11 are eligible to participate
in Junior Competitive Finals series. (3 x under 11’s can be borrowed into the 12/13 combined age
group each week).
k) FAR NORTH AND GULF: For all Gulf Premier League Men’s & Gulf Premier League Women’s
regular season matches, players will be required to play a minimum of three (3) matches to be
eligible for the finals series.
Offence Competition Penalties and Outcomes for Penalties and Outcomes for
1st Offence Repeat Offence (Same Team)
Participation in match Financial penalty as per Financial penalty as per Fines
while in breach of All Competitions Fines and Penalties and Penalties Document
registration Document
Participation in match
while in breach of Financial penalty as per
borrowing restrictions Fines and Penalties Financial penalty as per Fines
as without the approval All Competitions Document and Penalties Document
of Football Queensland.
Overturning of Result Overturning of Result
As per Section 4
Participation in match
while in breach of Finals Financial penalty as per
Eligibility restrictions Fines and Penalties Financial penalty as per Fines
without the approval of All Competitions Document and Penalties Document
Football Queensland.
Overturning of Result Overturning of Result
As per Section 4.13
Participation in match Financial penalty as per Financial penalty as per Fines
when not listed on the FQPL 3 - 6 Men Fines and Penalties and Penalties Document
Squadi Team Sheet (If FQPL 3 Women Document
player is determined to (including U23s) Overturning of Result
meet all other eligibility Overturning of Result
requirements).
Junior and Senior Financial penalty as per Financial penalty as per Fines
b) Football Queensland may suspend, expel or take whatever disciplinary action it deems necessary
against the offending clubs or players.
If a Finals Series match or Cup match is declared a “No Result”, Football Queensland may determine
that the match be replayed.
b) It provides suitable goal nets, safely fastened to the ground and corner flags; if portable goals are
used, they are anchored as per the Australian Standards.
c) It provides toilets/lockable dressing rooms for players and match officials that are hygienic and
clean.
d) It has adequate toilet/refreshment/canteen facilities (within reason) open to the public.
g) The dimensions of the playing field shall conform to the Laws of the Game and preferably shall be
consistent with the dimensions specified in the Laws for International matches. The minimum
acceptable dimensions for the FQPL Men & Women is 90 metres (100 yards) long and 60 metres
(66 yards) wide.
h) Any club whose facilities do not meet the requirements specified may be fined, suspended or
have its home fixtures played away.
In the event the HOME team’s ground is not ready, in the opinion of the match officials, to commence a
fixture or finals match by 15 minutes after the scheduled kick-off time; maybe deemed to have forfeited
the match and will be subject to Fines & Penalties as outlined in the 2024 Fines & Penalties document.
b) The Technical Area must be positioned inside or on the fence line (where grounds are fenced) or at
a maximum of two (2) metres from the touch line at unfenced grounds. Any structure must be at
least two (2) metres from the touch line.
c) For all matches played during the Regular Season and Finals Series, a maximum of eleven (11)
persons in FQPL First grade Men or ten (10) persons in all other competitions are permitted to
occupy the Technical Area for each club during any fixture. This includes the six (6) named
substitutes in FQPL Men First Grade or five (5) named substitutes in all other competitions and up
to five (5) Team Officials. This can include the coach, assistant coach, the substitutes and team
trainer or medical staff.
d) Occupants of the Technical Area must be either a registered Player, or a registered Team Official
who can provide the appropriate accreditation at all times; All occupants must be selected on the
Squadi Team Sheet, to be allowed in the Technical Area.
e) All substitutes must wear bibs or an alternative-coloured uniform to both team strips. They must be
seated within the technical area but are permitted to warm up outside of the technical area in an
area furthest from the opposing team. This is for match officials and players to distinguish them
from on-field players.
f) A Player or Team Official who is under suspension must not occupy a seat in the Technical Area.
g) Only one person at a time is authorized to convey tactical instructions to the players during the
match and they must return to their position after giving these instructions.
i) All substitutes must be seated within the Technical Area. Substitutes are permitted to warm up
outside of the Technical Area, provided they are wearing bibs or an alternative-coloured uniform
to the team strip. When warming up, substitutes are requested to choose an area furthest from the
opposing team.
j) All occupants of the Technical Area must behave in a responsible manner. The Match Official has
the right to eject any person from the Technical Area at any time as he/she sees fit. The game will
not recommence until that person has left to the Match Official's satisfaction.
k) Smoking and drinking alcohol within the confines of the playing barrier fence is strictly prohibited.
This includes the team bench within the Technical Area and all its occupants, including players,
coaching staff, club marshals and officials.
The penalty for breach of this Clause 4.2 shall be at Football Queensland’s sole and absolute discretion.
5.3 LIGHTING
Clubs wishing to host twilight and night fixtures must ensure their venue complies with the Football
Queensland Facilities Lighting Standards. The club is to submit a certified field lighting audit to Football
Queensland for each field (as desired) prior to the season’s commencement and have received
approval for competition play by Football Queensland. Certification is based on an audit of the lighting
system by a qualified lighting consultant/electrician and the club is to pay the cost of the audit. This
applies to any fixtures wishing to be scheduled after 3:15pm.
5.4 MEDICAL
All Venue Managers and/or clubs must provide spectator and player medical support service during
scheduled matches.
5.4.1 Stretchers
Venue Managers and/or clubs must ensure the availability of at least one stretcher suitable for first aid
and emergency use at all scheduled matches and only utilise under the supervision of an appropriately
qualified person.
b) Ensure the contact(s) has supplied a mobile phone number with their contact details to Football
Queensland.
Each club is only responsible for notifying their own club members of field closures.
If Football Queensland elects to postpone a match, Squadi will generate a notification to both clubs.
If matches have not been postponed by 3:30pm, it is then the Match Official’s (this includes Club Match
Officials) decision, on arrival, as to whether matches are to go ahead. Should the Match Official
postpone matches, the Match Official must submit an abandoned match notification via
Squadi.
Should a match be postponed after 3:30pm clubs will incur a charge of 50% of the assigned Match
Official fees.
If any HOME club does not abide by the Wet Weather Procedures, they may be deemed to have
forfeited the match and will be subject to the Penalties and Outcomes as detailed in Section 3.4.1.
If Football Queensland elects to postpone a match, Squadi will generate a notification to both clubs.
If matches have not been postponed 3 hours before the match kickoff time, it is then the Match Official’s
(this includes Club Match Officials) decision, on arrival, as to whether matches are to go ahead. Should
the Match Official postpone matches, the Match Official must submit an abandoned match
notification via Squadi.
If any HOME club does not abide by the Wet Weather Procedures, they may be deemed to have
forfeited the match and will be subject to the Penalties and Outcomes as detailed in Section 3.4.1.
Junior FQA and Community HOME team to provide ONE Ground Official
Competitions AWAY team to provide ONE Ground Official
MiniRoos and Under 12 HOME Club to provide ONE Ground Official per 2 fields being utilized.
Competitions If a centralised venue the home team must provide ONE Ground Official.
Match Officials will report breaches of the match ball licensing arrangement to FQ. Licensing regulations
provide that any clubs that breach the licensing requirements may be liable for a fine for each breach.
FQ reserves the right to mandate a match ball brand for the purposes of commercial sponsorship within
the competition. Mitre is the official match ball for 2024. Below is a table of the minimum match ball
AWAY teams must take their alternate strip (shirts, shorts, and socks) to every match and
will be required to change if the appointed Match Official requests it as per requirements
listed below in 5.8.1.
Team Managers should check the strip worn by their opponents to avoid the likelihood of a clash. The
penalty for breach of this clause shall be as per the Fines and Penalties Document.
In the event any parts of either team’s kit clashes after changing, a combination of Main and Alternate
strips must be worn to avoid any clash.
NOTE: MiniRoos and U12 may wear bibs to resolve kit clashes.
If a Competition Fixture does not commence due to an inability to resolve a clash of strips, and it can be
established that a club did not comply with the requirements above, the offending club may be
deemed to have forfeited the match and will be subject to the Penalties and Outcomes as detailed in
Section 3.4.1.
5.10 JEWLERY
In accordance with FIFA "Laws of the Game", a player is forbidden to wear any jewelry.
5.11 ALCOHOL
It shall be the licensed Venue Manager and/or club responsibility to enforce all Liquor Licensing
requirements in the sale and responsible service of alcohol.
Should persons be seen to be in breach of these rules, the ground official should advise such person to
conform to the rules immediately. Should such person(s) refuse to adhere to that request, the ground
official shall be at liberty to contact the police to have such person(s) removed.
If clubs believe information (results, goal scorers and/or cards) have been recorded incorrectly in
Squadi, an email must be sent to FQ Competitions no later than 7 days after the match result has been
loaded. The email must be sent by a designated Club Official.
No Club Official or Match Official has the power to refuse to allow an opposition player to take the field
for any reason. If there are any discrepancies between the Squadi Team Sheet and the players and team
officials participating in the match the Match Official must include this in an incident report.
Any breaches the submission of Squadi Team Sheets will be subject to fines and penalties in accordance
with Section 4.15 and the Fines and Penalties Document.
c) In the event a club official approaches the Match Official seeking to protest the fielding of an
ineligible player, the Match Official should instruct the club official to send the protest through a
Squadi incident report.
d) The Match Official must check that clubs do not list more than seventeen (17) players in FQPL First
Grade Teams, sixteen (16) players in FQPL U23s/Community Seniors/U14 – U18 Community
Juniors and fourteen (14) players in the Under 13 Community Juniors on the Squadi Team Sheet for
any match;
e) Please note that the Squadi Team Sheets, Match Official Summary & Send-Off/Incident Reports
from the appointed match official will be accepted transcript.
b) DARLING DOWNS, SUNSHINE COAST, WIDE BAY, CENTRAL COAST, WHITSUNDAY COAST,
NORTHERN, FAR NORTH AND GULF: Regular Season Fixtures - fees are split 50/50 between the
c) The Match Official Fee Structure per competition can be found on Football Queensland website.
d) Elimination/Qualifying, Semi and Preliminary Finals – fees will be shared equally by competing
teams.
e) Grand Finals – fees will be paid by Football Queensland.
f) Forfeited and abandoned matches – please refer to Fines and Penalties document.
Senior and Junior Playing Senior Player Movement Eligibility (Divisions based on the Metro 2023 compe��on and may be subject to change)
Metro FQPL FQPL FQPL FQPL FQPL
Players Graded Division NPL
NPL FQPL FQPL FQPL
U23 1 1 U23 2
2
FQPL
3
3
FQPL
4
4
FQPL
5
5
FQPL
6
6
CM CM CM CM CM CM CM CM CM
Div 1 Div 2 Div 3 Div 4 Div 5 Div 6 Div 7 Div 8 Div 9
U23 U23 U23 U23 U23