Information
As a newly established club, we understand you may have questions about who we are and why Southern Highlands FC is the right choice to support your child’s football journey. To make things easier, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions and answers that highlight what we offer and how we operate.
Frequently asked questions
If your question isn’t covered here, or you’d prefer to speak directly with one of our team members, please fill out the form below—and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Is Southern Highlands FC part of Highlands Soccer Association or Highlands Football Club?
No, Southern Highlands FC is not part of or affiliated with Highlands Soccer Association or Highlands Football Club. Southern Highlands FC is an independent club and is registered as a team with the Junior Premier League Australia.
Why was Southern Highlands FC established, and what does it offer my child?
Southern Highlands FC was founded to create exceptional development pathways for young football players in the Southern Highlands. As a not-for-profit club, every dollar is reinvested into enhancing the player experience—through expert coaching, quality equipment, tailored matchday and training kits, well-maintained facilities, and competition opportunities in the Junior Premier League Australia (JPL).
We emphasise development on and off the pitch—building confidence, resilience, teamwork, and a lifelong love of the game. Located at Frensham Sports Ground in Mittagong, we offer a family-centred, community-driven environment where ambitious young players can flourish.
Can my child play for Southern Highlands FC and simultaneously play for their current local or HFC team?
At SHFC, we fully support and encourage multi-club participation. We understand many players juggle commitments across clubs, and our schedule supports that - most JPL matches are held on Sundays, which helps families coordinate across different teams. However, other clubs may have their own policies on multi-club participation, so it's best to confirm directly with them.
Is there a registration fee? How much is it and what does it cover?
Yes. For players selected into SHFC’s JPL squads, a registration fee of approximately $850 per season applies. As a not-for-profit, all collected fees go directly back into the club - supporting coaching, gear, league registrations, and overall player experience and development.
We are actively pursuing sponsorship to help reduce these costs and make high-level football more accessible to all families.
When will the next JPL trials be held, and how can I register?
The trials for our 2026 JPL squads have now concluded and at this stage, no new trial dates have been confirmed.
When new opportunities are scheduled, details will be posted on our JPL Trials page.
If you’re interested in being considered for future JPL trials or joining our programs, please submit an Expression of Interest via the JPL trials page. This will ensure you’re notified as soon as new trial dates are announced.
How often will training occur, and are there additional development opportunities?
Selected players will train twice a week under the guidance of experienced coaches. Additionally, SHFC hosts open holiday clinics during school breaks—these are excellent opportunities for local players to sharpen their skills in a fun, inclusive setting, and even get noticed for future selection.
What is the Junior Premier League (JPL) and why is playing in it beneficial?
The JPL originated in the UK around 2011 as a structured, competitive youth soccer league that simulates professional standards. It has since expanded globally and is set to launch in Australia in early 2026.
Being part of the JPL offers:
- Elite competition with over 30 matches per season
- Access to specialist coaching focusing on individual growth and teamwork
- Pathway opportunities toward professional academies
- A culture emphasizing personal development—including discipline, resilience, and confidence.
Where are JPL games played? / How far will I have to travel to matches?
Southern Highlands FC competes in the JPL (Junior Premier League) Australia NSW competition. As part of this league, our teams can expect to travel for away games to various locations within the region — including areas such as Sydney, and surrounding districts.
The final list of participating clubs and the full match schedule are currently being finalised by JPL Australia. Once confirmed, all details including venues, dates, and travel requirements will be shared directly with our players and families.
Home matches will be played at Frensham Sports Ground, 101 Range Road, Mittagong.
How does the club ensure child safety and wellbeing?
Child safety is at the core of SHFC’s values. We strictly adhere to the NSW Child Safe Standards, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. This includes; All club staff and volunteers holding WWC Certification, embedding child safety in our leadership, governance, training practices—and giving young players a voice in decisions that affect them.
How does SHFC support community and family engagement?
We pride ourselves on a supportive, welcoming atmosphere that appeals equally to players, parents, and families. At SHFC, you’ll find a tight-knit, family-friendly culture—one where parents, kids, and coaches collaborate to foster growth both on the field and off it