Fan Engagement 3 min read

AFL Announces Bigger Fuel Discount for Gather Round Weekend

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The AFL has announced a partnership with Shell V-Power to provide a 10 cents per litre discount on fuel throughout the 2026 Gather Round weekend.

The initiative, running from Wednesday, 8 April to Monday, 13 April, aims to alleviate cost-of-living pressures for families as global petrol prices surge due to ongoing international conflicts.

The timing of the promotion is designed to support the thousands of fans driving to South Australia for the festival of football, as well as families travelling during the national school holiday period.

Emphasising the league’s commitment to maintaining the affordability of the sport, AFL CEO, Andrew Dillon, said: “We know there are many cost-of-living pressures on families… and we are continuing to look at ways to keep our game as affordable and accessible as possible.”

“We hope this offer will help ease pressures on families across the country,” Dillon said.

Noting that the partnership is designed to give back to the community, CEO of Viva Energy (the exclusive licensee of the Shell brand in Australia), Scott Wyatt, added: “We’re proud that our partnership… is giving people a little more back in their pocket and helping make the experience more affordable.” 

Accessibility and Activation

To access the discount, fans must utilise the league’s digital infrastructure:

  • Platform: Download the AFL Live Official App.
  • Method: Click the ‘Shell Fuel Discount’ banner to generate a single-use barcode.
  • Availability: A new barcode becomes available daily at 9:00 a.m. throughout the promotional window.
  • Participating Sites: Valid at Shell Reddy Express locations nationwide for both petrol and diesel.
  • Ongoing Value: Outside of the Gather Round period, the app continues to offer a standing discount of 4 cents per litre.

Broader Transport and Sustainability Context

The fuel discount is part of a wider trend of transport-related incentives across the AFL landscape.

The announcement coincides with recent state government initiatives aimed at reducing the financial barrier to match attendance:

  • Victoria: The State Government recently announced that all public transport in April is free, aligning with South Australia and Western Australia’s existing models where transport is included in the ticket price.
  • New South Wales: A similar transit program remains in place for GWS GIANTS fixtures at Engie Stadium.

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