The AFL Players’ Association is proud to release the fifth edition of the Insights and Impact Report, the annual publication that examines the current state of the industry through the lens of players’ lived experiences.

The Report gives a voice to players, as partners in the game, to provide an important perspective on the biggest challenges and opportunities facing them both within and outside of their workplace.

Insights are informed by survey data collected annually by the AFLPA, alongside personal conversations, meetings and regular club visits. Supported by details of the impact made by the AFLPA’s programs and services, as well as recommendations for the industry to move forward, the Report constructs a holistic picture of the game as it currently stands.

Edition Five contains chapters that dive into the game on-field, the club environment, the player experience, the players’ off-field development, and the AFLPA’s programs and services.

Within these chapters, the Report explores the players’ role as partners in growing the game, pressure on AFLW development systems, the link between workplace culture and on-field success, the effect of intensifying external scrutiny on players, the differences in experiences for Indigenous and culturally diverse players, and the support needed for past players.

Key stats from the fifth edition:

• 96% (AFLW) and 97% (AFL): Players interested in participating in representative football (see page 8).
• 217%: Increase in amount AFL players fined over two years (see page 10)
• 11%: Venues used in 2025 that were rated “very good” by AFLW players (see page 13)
• 66%: AFL players who received some form of online abuse in the past 12 months (see page 27)
• 82%: AFL players who have high levels of concern about the long-term effects of concussion (see page 29)
• 50%: AFLW clubs who always adhere to CBA standard of having a doctor at all contact training sessions (see page 30)
• 27%: Indigenous and culturally diverse AFL players who experienced racism in the past 12 months (see page 35)
• 18%: Increase in members supported by AFLPA Mental Health Navigation Service (see page 55)

VIEW INSIGHTS & IMPACT REPORT EDITION 5 HERE

AFLPA CEO, James Gallagher, said he was honoured to deliver his first Insights and Impact Report as Chief Executive.

“This report is comprehensive and transparent. It is made possible by the significant contributions of our members through collecting data and collating their views.

“The players care deeply about the game, their teammates, and their clubs and, through sharing their views over a long period time, they have helped shape the game for the better.

“As we move towards the next Collective Bargaining Agreement, identifying the opportunities and challenges for the playing group will only become more important.

AFLPA President, Darcy Moore, said: “Players are the experts on and off the field – they live and breathe the game and are the ones charged with performing at an elite level.

“As players, we’ve played our role in supporting innovation to grow the game and are committed to ongoing progress. 

“It’s vital we prioritise our people and keep listening, learning and progressing based on the unique experiences that inform this report.”