Football West has formally launched the application process for potential inclusion in the new National Premier Leagues WA competition, which will kick-off next season.

Football Federation Australia technical director Han Berger was guest speaker at the fifth and most recent information session held at Dorrien Gardens on Wednesday, where he outlined the importance of the NPL to raising football standards across the country.

NPL competitions have already kicked off in New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, ACT and South Australia but after careful consideration, feedback from stakeholders and the need for further information from the FFA, Football West decided against an early launch and will instead proceed in 2014.

Interested clubs are invited to complete an application form, which can be downloaded here, and submit it to Football West before June 28.

The National Premier Leagues concept was developed by Football Federation Australia and is intended to give state-based competitions a more consistent structure, enhance player development and create a vibrant match-day experience.

Clubs will be asked to raise the bar in terms of coaching, youth development, facilities and presentation, which will result in better players in an improved competition.

The winning WA club will compete in an NPL finals series involving the Champion team from the other member federations. A two-tier State League will continue to operate below the NPL-WA.

NPL entry is open to clubs which meet the eligibility criteria and is not restricted to current State League clubs. Regardless of the number of applicants, a club which fails to meet the eligibility criteria will not be granted a licence.

Each NPL team will be required to field a first team, under-20s and under-18s as well as junior teams in each age group from under-12 to 16.