The season began on 6 August, with Melbourne hosting the Central Coast at home.

[2] As well as these major changes to the league, the Pre-Season Challenge Cup was no longer held as part of the 2009–10 season due to a busier regular season schedule,[3] and clubs attracting higher profile pre-season friendlies.

It was awarded to Premiers Sydney FC who scraped in by 4 points from rivals Melbourne Victory.

* The Newcastle Jets' Tarek Elrich received a direct red card in their round 7 fixture against Sydney FC.

[36] * Adelaide United's Iain Fyfe received a direct red card in their round 19 fixture against Perth Glory.