Players’ Care | Supporting causes that matter to players
AFL Players Care is the official charity initiative of AFL and AFLW players.
Created by players, for communities, the program gives players the opportunity to support causes they care about and contribute to organisations creating meaningful change across Australia.
Each season, player contributions are directed to charities chosen by players, ensuring support reaches causes that reflect the values and passions of the playing group.
In 2025, AFL Players Care donated more than $225,000 to 30 Australian charities, supporting organisations working across areas including mental health, medical research, family support, regional communities, youth services and climate action.
Through AFL Players Care, players come together to create impact well beyond the game.
Sustainability | Helping protect the future of football
Players recognise that a healthy environment supports healthy communities, strong local clubs and the long-term future of the game.
The AFLPA works alongside players and partners to support practical sustainability initiatives, reduce environmental impact and promote climate action across the football industry.
This includes support towards player-led charity Footy for Climate, contributing to community sustainability programs, improving waste management practices and advancing our commitment to reduce emissions and achieve net zero targets.
By combining advocacy with action, players are helping create a more sustainable future for the players in the game and the football communities that sit around the game.
Ladder | The players’ charity
Ladder is the official charity of AFL players. Established in 2007 by former AFL players Mark Bolton, Paul Licuria and Joel Bowden, Ladder exists because players saw an opportunity to support young people facing disadvantage and help prevent the cycle of homelessness before it begins.
Today, Ladder helps young people build confidence, connection and opportunity through mentoring, education and employment support, wellbeing programs and community engagement.
Players continue to be at the heart of Ladder’s work, contributing financially, volunteering their time, serving on the Board, mentoring participants and advocating for positive change.
In 2025, Ladder supported 280 young people through mentoring and early intervention programs, helping participants strengthen their wellbeing, build trusted relationships and reconnect with education, training and employment opportunities.
For almost two decades, Ladder has demonstrated the impact of players working together to support young people and create lasting change.
Social Leadership
AFL and AFLW players are committed to creating positive impact beyond football.
Whether supporting charitable causes, contributing to a more sustainable future, or helping young people overcome disadvantage, players use their collective voice, influence and resources to make a difference in communities across Australia.