Why Bailey Smith’s headband is one of the hot topics among AFL clubs
The AFL has sent a seven-page memo to clubs, outlining a raft of proposed changes for season 2026, including one as a result of the actions of the Cats star.
AFL
10th December 2025
Why this former No.1 pick is going back into the draft
The AFLW trade period finished on Wednesday with some premiership-winning stars switching clubs, and a former No.1 pick having to re-enter the draft after her move to the rampant Roos fell through.
North Melbourne still confident of landing former AFLW number one pick
North Melbourne have been unable to trade for Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner but the two-time defending AFLW premiers are still confident they'll secure the former number one draft pick.
Ten more AFL Origin stars named as WA makes controversial pick, Victoria adds third-gen prodigy
Kysaiah Pickett and Luke Jackson headline a star-studded crop added to the Western Australian State of Origin side.
Controversial Daicos incident now worth a suspension as AFL proposes further rule changes
The AFL has proposed multiple changes to its regulations for the 2026 season including the ability to suspend players for stomach punches.
Cats unveil flag-winning AFLW coach in first move to signal new era
Geelong has announced Mick Stinear as their new AFLW coach, just weeks after his departure from Melbourne.
9th December 2025
Dyson Heppell joins Collingwood in coaching development role
Essendon champion Dyson Heppell is headed to Collingwood in a development role in Craig McRae’s team.
Arrest made after alleged threats to Crows footballer
SA Police have arrested a 31-year-old man after he allegedly sent five threatening messages on social media to a Crows player, who the ABC understands is Izak Rankine.
Tigers eye surprise with No.1 pick after major trade; bids to shape top 10 — AFLW Draft Watch
AFLW draft prospect Scarlett Johnson is firming as this year’s Pick 1 favourite, with Richmond strongly considering taking the Northern Knights star with the first selection next week.
Magpies champion cops major blow in $3m court fight with his former manager
Collingwood champion Scott Pendlebury’s hopes of recovering an alleged $3 million from his former business partner in court have taken a major hit.
AFL reveals full 2026 AAMI Community Series pre-season fixture including unique triple-header
Footy is just 78 days away - not that we’re counting, or anything.
6th December 2025
When will construction begin on the Hobart stadium?
That and other questions answered now that the $1.13 billion stadium project has passed Tasmania's parliament.
5th December 2025
'We've won': Tassie celebrates AFL licence confirmation
Tasmania's AFL licence is now unconditional and they are celebrating.
'Fair assumption': Devils boss warns debut in new stadium could suffer delay
The Tasmania Devils CEO says the club will likely play in the AFL from existing venues for a year longer than expected, while awaiting construction of the Macquarie Point stadium.
Carlton cut ex-AFLW skipper months after she gave birth
The Blues made the brutal call on Kerryn Peterson, leaving her with a decision on whether to try and continue her career.
‘Let me be here’: How young gun overcame the odds to become a top AFLW draft prospect
Chloe Baker-West was told she couldn’t do it.
Tasmania isn't quite done with having awkward conversations with the AFL
When it comes to the Macquarie Point stadium in Tasmania, there is clearly something deeper at play than seats, concrete and a roof. You simply couldn't vote for it otherwise, writes Chris Rowbottom.
4th December 2025
‘The Tasmanian people have spoken’: Devils on track for AFL entry, but $1.13b stadium a year behind
After years of public debate, controversial plans for Macquarie Point stadium in Hobart have passed Tasmania’s upper house.
It's a 'Yes'. Hobart's AFL stadium gets final parliamentary approval
A $1.13 billion stadium on the edge of the Hobart CBD has been approved by Tasmania's upper house, satisfying a key condition for the state's AFL licence.
Hobart’s new stadium likely go ahead
After years of divisive debate, Hobart’s controversial stadium looks set to pass parliament. Ellen Coulter reports from Hobart. .
Tigers sack their coach months after re-signing him
Richmond have sacked their AFLW coach and head of football after a review led by ex-Carlton footy boss Brad Lloyd.
‘Need a different voice’: Tigers dismiss AFLW coach after review led by former Blues boss
Richmond has dismissed AFLW coach Ryan Ferguson following a “comprehensive external review” of its women’s program.
An arrest, the Rat Pack and a speech that brought the house down: Swan quips his way into Pies’ hall of fame
Dane Swan wasn’t sure he deserved to be in the Collingwood Hall of Fame. He thinks he bullied the Magpies into it.
‘Hope they respect that’: No.1 pick draft bound AGAIN; 13-trade Deadline Day chaos — Wrap
Thirteen deals were struck during a frantic final day of the AFLW trade period.
3rd December 2025
Devils done: Crucial votes confirmed as Tasmania to build $1bn stadium for 19th AFL club
Tasmanian parliament will approve the construction of the $1.13 billion Macquarie Point stadium in Hobart, allowing the Tasmania Devils to become the AFL’s 19th club.
‘The hardest decision I’ve ever had to make’: Devils, stadium to get the green light from parliament
The proposed Macquarie Point stadium – and the AFL’s newest club, the Tasmania Devils – are all but locked in after an historic day on the Apple Isle.
Hobart stadium secures enough support — as it happened
A stadium on Hobart's waterfront has gained enough support to pass parliament, after key independents declared they would support the contentious project — as it happened.
‘Proven record’: Crows lock in ex-Eagles, Suns player to be new AFLW coach
The Adelaide Crows have appointed Ryan Davis as the club’s new women’s senior coach.
2nd December 2025
The eight AFL draftees primed to make an instant impact in 2026
Every club hopes to find a draft gem who can improve their fortunes immediately. We have identified which of this year’s draftees could do exactly that.
Bulldogs' top AFLW draft pick wants to join Kangaroos
The Kangaroos' domination of the AFLW is set to be given another boost, with a former number one draft pick confirming she wants to head to North.
Text messages, emails could cost Scott Pendlebury millions in court feud with former manager
Key text messages and emails sent by Scott Pendlebury could prove costly in a court feud with his former business partner.
The 'yes stadium' and 'no stadium' split still divides Tasmania
By the end of this week, Tasmania will know whether or not Hobart will have a new AFL stadium. Many Tasmanians are still making up their own minds about whether they support it or not.
1st December 2025
Kangas go back-to-back to complete perfect AFLW season
North Melbourne pulled off a perfect season and become the first AFLW team to win back-to-back flags with a 40-point win over the Brisbane Lions.
How do you replace departing Lions’ champions? Pass the torch to these men
Recruits, senior champions and even Gout Gout were on deck as the Brisbane Lions’ quest to cement another dynasty well and truly launched.
Fifteen people, one vote: The future of the Tasmania Devils is on the line this week
If Tasmania’s upper house doesn’t approve the new, roofed stadium at Macquarie Point in Hobart, the Devils may well be dead before they’ve even truly begun. Here’s the state of play heading into this week’s crucial vote.
AFLW juggernaut set for major trade coup just days after record-breaking premiership
North Melbourne’s formidable AFLW outfit looks set to somehow find an extra gear, with yet another elite talent requesting a trade to join the powerhouse.
What to expect as decision day on Macquarie Point stadium finally arrives
The long-running debate over whether an AFL stadium should be built on Hobart's waterfront is reaching an end, as the parliamentary vote takes place this week.
30th November 2025
For the second straight year, Essendon will have a contested board election
After a year of drama, injury and disappointment, Essendon face their second contested board vote in two years. President Andrew Welsh is one of two board members up for re-election.
From GF-or-bust to starved finals contenders: Every AFL club’s early pass mark for 2026
For many, the idea of success or failure in sport is very simple — you either win it all, or you’ve wasted the season.
The Kangaroos banned one phrase this season. On Sunday, celebrating with fans, they could finally use it
With the self-inflicted pressure of going through the AFLW season undefeated released, North Melbourne had the chance to relax and soak up the adoration of their fans.
Lions 'threw the kitchen sink' but nothing could halt Roos' perfect season
Creating history by winning consecutive premierships and completing an unbeaten season is just reward for North Melbourne's boundary-pushing AFLW program.
'Now or never': Pro-stadium rally gathers ahead of crucial parliament vote
Supporters of Tasmania's proposed AFL stadium have gathered on Hobart's parliament lawns on Sunday to show their backing of the controversial build.
‘Little bit to weigh up’: Roos’ great opens up on future in emotional post-GF interview
North Melbourne veteran Emma Kearney has said she is likely to “go around again” following the Kangaroos’ 40-point AFLW Grand Final victory against the Brisbane Lions at Ikon Park on Saturday night.
Emotional scenes as AFLW premiers rush to embrace sidelined star after GF
During their AFLW premiership celebrations, North Melbourne players make sure to take time for Mia King, who just missed the grand final with a knee injury.
Hobart's future will be decided in just days as the city holds its breath
Since its inception, the stadium project has divided the Hobart community in a tug of war between development and preservation of its historic waterfront. In just days, the door will shut forever on one side of the debate.
‘We needed some mongrel’: The harsh moment that led to back-to-back Kangaroo flags
When North Melbourne lost to Melbourne in 2023, veteran star Emma Kearney called for a harder edge. Her teammates answered the call.
29th November 2025
If any other team wants to win a premiership, they must get on North's level
North Melbourne proves to be ground breakers and history makers as it extend its match-winning streak to 27 games in a comprehensive win over Brisbane. .
‘We may never lose again’: Euphoric scenes as Roos win back-to-back AFLW flags, go undefeated
North Melbourne have done the remarkable, going through the entire 2025 season without dropping a game to win their second straight flag. Follow along for all the reaction.
100m penalty gifts easy goal
Kate Shierlaw was gifted a goal after Shannon Campbell conceded a rapid-fire 100-metre penalty — first for pushing after the mark, then for failing to clear the protected area.
‘All I’ll say’: Mason Cox breaks silence on ‘shock’ Collingwood exit
New Fremantle recruit Mason Cox has taken a subtle swipe at his former club after he was sensationally axed by Collingwood in October.
Brisbane facing 'toughest task' in AFLW final
9news Melbourne captures fans and players arriving for the AFLW grand final.
Kangaroos outmuscle Lions to win second straight AFLW premiership
North Melbourne outclasses the Brisbane Lions by 40 points in the AFLW grand final to capture a history-making second consecutive premiership.
27TH HEAVEN! AFLW history as Kangas go back-to-back to complete PERFECT season
North Melbourne’s perfect 15-game season is complete.
What would it be like to visit the proposed Hobart stadium?
From potential gridlock to an "immersive" viewing experience, let's set aside the politics — just for a moment — and look at what planning documents tell us about the building at the heart of Tasmania's fiery stadium debate.
Season 10 delivered thrills but the AFL should not be patting themselves on the back
We’ve come a long way since the history-making lockout at Ikon Park in 2017, but now isn’t the time for the AFL to sit back and pat itself on the back.
‘Teething problems’, or something untenable? Behind the brewing tensions at AFL House
Tensions between the AFL’s two key football lieutenants have threatened to destabilise Andrew Dillon’s senior team just months into his controversial head-office restructure.
28th November 2025
AFLW have-nots receive league boost on grand final eve
Three of the AFLW's worst-performing clubs will receive boosts to their lists, with the help announced the day before the grand final.
What time does the AFLW Grand Final start, and when is the entertainment?
The 2025 AFLW Grand Final has arrived, with North Melbourne and the Brisbane Lions set to go head-to-head in the decider for a third consecutive season.
Roos coach sheds light on 'really difficult' AFLW grand final omission
North Melbourne coach Darren Crocker says telling Mia King she isn't going to play in the AFLW grand final is "one of the harder conversations" he's had to have.
‘Tell me to retire’: How a football legend broke her own promise
If Emma Kearney becomes a three-time premiership player on Saturday night it could signal a big career change for the AFLW champion.
Essendon’s injury curse continues: Martin to miss 2026 after further knee surgery
The Bombers’ bad luck on the injury front has worsened again. Meanwhile, Brian Cook’s appointment to mentor CEO Paul Guerra comes after a season of huge change at Melbourne.
Trio of clubs granted special assistance package by AFL after lowly seasons
The AFL has granted Collingwood, the Gold Coast Suns and GWS Giants special assistance packages after their continued underperformance in the AFLW across recent seasons.
Everything you need to know ahead of tonight's AFLW grand final
Wondering what time the AFLW grand final starts and how you can watch it live? We've got you covered.
Blueprint behind AFLW’s most ‘boring’, unstoppable force... and ridiculous 26-game record explained
Across the last few seasons of AFLW, no team has come close to being more consistent than North Melbourne.
‘They can win’: Where ‘all-time’ GF will be won and lost and why $5 outsiders can cause boilover
The biggest game of the year is upon us with the Roos and Lions set to go head-to-head in what promises to be a thrilling contest in this year’s 2025 AFLW Grand Final.
The second-chance saloon: How one club’s trash becomes another’s treasure
Many delisted AFL players are on the lookout for new teams this off-season – but how has your club fared in the recycled market in the past?.
27th November 2025
Melbourne star finds Origin eligibility loophole
Melbourne star Kysaiah Pickett will play for W.A in State of Origin, despite being drafted out of S.A.
‘Lot more to offer’: Eagles recruit excited for new chapter after Pies departure
Ex-Magpie Fin Macrae has admitted he was “frustrated” by his lack of senior opportunities at Collingwood at times as he looks to capitalise on an AFL lifeline at West Coast.
Premiers, BOG Medal and first goal: 14 Fox Footy pundits deliver ultimate GF Crystal Ball
Arguably the two best and most bankable teams of the decade will collide on Saturday night in the 2025 AFLW grand final, with the North Melbourne Tasmania Kangaroos taking on the Brisbane Lions at Ikon Park.
AFL to overhaul MRO grading system with new flexibility after cases divided footy world
The AFL will overhaul its match review system to allow for more lenient suspensions for some rough conduct cases.
Blues exodus twist in Voss fate; Vic big guns risking axe: 2026 AFL coach pressure gauge
Similar to death and taxes, another certainty in life is external pressure on AFL coaches.
Why a second job is a joy for Ash Riddell in the lead-up to grand final
Roos star — and grade 6 teacher — Ash Riddell has an entire school behind her ahead of this Saturday's AFLW grand final.
26th November 2025
AFL’s biggest broadcast partner isn’t happy with its deal – and it’s pulled the plug before
The British sports streaming giant has recently terminated domestic soccer deals in France and Belgium.
Jamarra the Cat: AFL re-works controversial draft system... which would’ve changed a No.1 pick
The AFL has tweaked the zones for its controversial Next Generation Academy system, such that Jamarra Ugle-Hagan would’ve gone to Geelong with the No.1 pick instead.
Former umpire charged with betting offences relating to 2022 Brownlow Medal count
Former AFL umpire Michael Pell is facing more charges over alleged suspicious gambling related to the 2021 and 2022 Brownlow Medal counts, while a fifth man has also been charged.
Hird sorry for Merrett after trade drama
Essendon great James Hird expresses his sympathy for Zach Merrett after his failed bid to land at Hawthorn.
Merrett gives up Bombers captaincy after failed Hawks trade
Zach Merrett steps down as Essendon men's captain after his failed trade request to Hawthorn left his position untenable.
‘Not the right person’: Zach Merrett steps down from Bombers captaincy after failed trade
Essendon superstar Zach Merrett has stepped down from his captaincy position, the club confirmed on Wednesday.
Essendon avoid a summer of discontent with Merrett’s captaincy call
Zach Merrett reached his decision to vacate the captaincy in the past few days after meetings with club president Andrew Welsh, CEO Craig Vozzo and senior coach Brad Scott.
‘Chip on my shoulder’: Tom McGuane lifts lid on draft ‘disappointment’, AFL lifeline with Crows
Adelaide train-on talent Tom McGuane says he has a “chip on my shoulder” after being overlooked by Collingwood as a father-son prospect and passed over at the drafts.
25th November 2025
One more than Erin: North star’s stunning new AFLW mark, teammate laughs off Nasiah-like snub
North Melbourne superstar Jasmine Garner has won the AFLW MVP award for the third time, one more than one of the legends of the women’s game.
How the late Troy Selwood helped AFL draftee make it
West Coast draftee Josh Lindsay speaks on the influence the late Troy Selwood had on his journey to the AFL.
Roos star puts heat on AFLW battlers to lift standards ahead of grand final
Emma Kearney says the pressure is on other clubs in the AFLW to raise their standard to North Melbourne's ahead of the club's third straight grand final.
First-ever back-to-back flags, or all-time streak broken? AFLW Grand Final Ultimate Guide
The 2025 AFLW grand final will this Saturday be contested by two of the most successful clubs in the league’s history.
Eagles draftee Lindsay wants to carry on Selwood legacy
West Coast draftee Josh Lindsay has opened up about the devastation of losing his mentor Troy Selwood, saying the former Brisbane tagger played a vital role in helping him get on an AFL list.
‘I have to live up to the hype’: Dons draftees eye Hawks blockbuster
As Zach Merrett settles back into life at Essendon after his failed trade bid, the club’s boom draftees say they’re ready to help with the heavy lifting in 2026.
How Riddell's rise to become AFLW's best mirrors Kangaroos' dominance
Overlooked in multiple drafts before making her debut in 2019, North Melbourne's Ash Riddell is now the best player in the league.
Riddell credits Roos teammate after winning AFLW's top individual honour
Ash Riddell says her close relationship with North Melbourne teammate Jasmine Garner helped her win the AFLW's best and fairest award.
Kangaroos star Ash Riddell wins AFLW best and fairest award
Runner-up to Adelaide's Ebony Marinoff last year, Riddell polled 23 votes to add the league's highest individual honour to her fifth All-Australian selection.
24th November 2025
Ash Riddell was crowned AFLW’s best and fairest. But this moment had the audience gasping
After years of being overlooked for the league’s highest accolade, Ash Riddell has finally won the AFLW’s best and fairest award.
Kangaroos superstar finally wins AFLW’s top gong after years of snubs... and two more this year
North Melbourne finally has an AFLW best and fairest medal in its trophy cabinet, with Ash Riddell claiming the women’s game’s top honour.
Nic Nat on hand to help out as West Coast’s newest recruit eyes ruck role
The silver lining from West Coast’s one-win campaign in 2025 was a bumper draft haul last week.
Louisa Bonner's Welcome to Country speech
Louisa Bonner draws attention to the issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people during her Welcome to Country.
In pictures: the 2025 W Awards in Melbourne
The AFLW’s best and fairest winner and All Australian team to be announced at the W Awards.
Merrett lifts lid on 'awkward' return
Zach Merrett opens up on his return to Essendon after his failed bid to land at Hawthorn.
Svarc reveals Lions' GF loss 'drives everything'
Ruby Svarc says last season's grand final defeat was the catalyst that led to a complete revision of the Lions' strategy for the 2025 season.
Demons coach walks out after prelim final thriller, now tipped to defect to rival club
Melbourne AFLW premiership coach Mick Stinear has quit the club and is expected to take a rival job for next season.
As his mates headed to schoolies, a dual-code phenom began his AFL ascent
He had rugby league clubs chasing him, and he turned them down. Now he spearheads a draft class eager to take over the AFL.
‘I just want the Australian public to know’: Why pointed Welcome to Country speech was given
A prominent family member of the first Indigenous Australian to become a member of any parliament of Australia has defended her pre-game speech ahead of the AFLW final between Carlton and Brisbane.
