AFL Breaks Participation Record, Reflecting Strong Grassroots Growth

Off the back of record membership numbers across the league, the AFL has had another win off the field, confirming that over 528,000 registered participants in 2024, surpassing last year’s record of 526,000. This increase underscores the league’s ongoing efforts to expand its reach and influence across Australia.

The 2024 participation figures encompass a wide range of programs, including community football at junior, youth, and senior levels, as well as the AFL Nines, NAB AFL Auskick, and the newly introduced NAB AFL Superkick. These programs are essential in nurturing talent and promoting the sport at the grassroots level.

The participation numbers are also set to rise even further as registrations continue for NAB AFL Superkick, NAB AFL Auskick, and AFL Nines, particularly during terms three and four as spring approaches. The AFL has reported a national participation growth of 4% compared to last year, indicating a robust interest in Australian Rules Football across the country.

Tasmania and the Northern Territory have witnessed the most significant increases, with participation spikes of 13% and 9%, respectively. In the Northern Territory, girls now make up over 40% of Auskick participants, and the number of junior footballers in Tasmania has increased by 9%. Queensland has also seen a 6% rise in participation, contributing to a combined total of over 120,000 participants alongside New South Wales.

Traditional football strongholds like Victoria, Western Australia, and South Australia continue to show solid numbers, with 222,000, 84,500, and 64,000 participants, respectively. Women and girls now account for 20% of all community football registrations nationally, highlighting the sport’s growing inclusivity.

NAB AFL Auskick is particularly popular among children and families, showing a 7% increase from 2023. The program is on the verge of surpassing its previous record of 125,000 participants, set last year.

Additionally, 6.5% of participants identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, with the AFL’s participation programs seeing a 2.5% increase. There has also been a 3.8% rise in participation from players with parents born overseas, reflecting the AFL’s appeal to diverse communities.

This growth results from several game development initiatives, including family-friendly session times for NAB AFL Auskick and Superkick, more all-girls and wheelchair NAB AFL Auskick offerings, and the introduction of AFLW Community Camps. These initiatives demonstrate the AFL’s commitment to making the sport accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Rob Auld, the AFL’s Executive General Manager of Game Development, expressed his satisfaction with the growing participation. “We are incredibly proud and humbled that more than half a million Australians are actively involved in footy and love our game,” Auld said. He highlighted the importance of grassroots football in sustaining the sport for future generations and thanked all participants and volunteers for their dedication.

With a goal of reaching one million participants by 2033, the AFL is poised to continue its growth, backed by a commitment to investing in game development initiatives. The record-breaking participation numbers in 2024 signify a promising future for Australian Rules Football, driven by strong community engagement and support.