2025/26 Age Groups & Specifications (FAQ's)

Based on community feedback, the double-barrelled age group names (e.g. “13's (U14)”) have been replaced with simplified terminology such as “13s,” “14s,” etc. This clearer naming better reflects the structure of our NSW competitions, particularly since the majority of athletes compete only at a grassroots or club level. 

While the naming conventions used in NSW do not currently align exactly with those used at the national level, all athletes—both in NSW and nationally—compete in age groups based on year of birth. This ensures consistency in athlete groupings regardless of terminology.

NSW Athletics takes a holistic approach to its competition framework, aiming to meet the needs of the entire athletics community—from grassroots participants to high-performance athletes. While alignment with national structures is considered, our first priority is ensuring the model works for the broader NSW membership.

It is also important to note that fewer than 2% of NSW athletes attend National Championships, meaning the current disconnect in age group labels affects only a small segment of the membership.

Encouragingly, a significant national review is now underway, focused on aligning age groups and specifications across all states and territories. NSW is actively participating in these discussions to ensure our athletes, coaches, and stakeholders are well represented as we work toward a more unified national framework.

No. Masters age groups will still be determined as per the first day of competition, as per World Masters Athletics rules.

No. Specifications remain unchanged from the 2024/25 season. This decision provides consistency and certainty for athletes, coaches, and event organisers.

NSW Athletics has intentionally retained different specifications in 12 events to better suit the full range of participants, particularly those at the grassroots level. Athletes still have opportunities to compete using National specifications in events such as the Treloar Shield and targeted weekly competitions.

Following the recent announcement from Athletics Australia and Little Athletics Australia regarding the joint staging of the Australian Junior Championships and Australian Little Athletics Championships in 2026, a national review of age groups and specifications is now underway. This process aims to identify a more consistent and unified structure across all states and territories.

Yes. The dual hurdles pathway will continue for male athletes in the 14s, 15s, 16s, and 17s age groups. This approach recognises the wide range of athletes, clubs, and venues across NSW, the logistical challenges with equipment, and the importance of maintaining a pathway for those aiming to compete at the National Championships.

The hurdles type (collapsible or senior) that will be used at Zone, Region, and State Junior Championships are outlined in the table below. Please note that this may not apply to other competitions such as the Treloar Shield or Country Championships, where equipment and workforce availability may influence the hurdle heights and spacings offered. Always refer to the specific competition information for confirmation.

*May not be offered at Zone or Region

Yes. Athletes may either progress (through the Zone and Region pathway) in the 1500m walks or directly enter the 3000m walks (at state Championships), ensuring multiple development pathways remain available.

From feedback in year 1, athletes may now contest both events at the State Championships.

Further information regarding the including Event offerings for the Zone, Region and State Pathway will be released in future releases but in the next few months.