AFL NSW-ACT

Supporting Football Across New South Wales and the ACT

AFL NSW/ACT is the state and territory body responsible for growing and developing Australian Rules Football across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Its work connects community participation, local clubs, schools and talent development, helping people become involved in the game and continue their football journey.

From a child’s first experience of Auskick to senior competition, coaching, umpiring and volunteering, AFL NSW/ACT supports opportunities to participate both on and off the field. Its official website provides information about local leagues, development programs, club resources and football news across the region.

Opportunities to Play and Participate

Football offers different ways to get involved, depending on age, experience and personal goals. Programs include NAB AFL Auskick, Superkick, junior and youth football, senior competitions, Masters and social formats such as AFL Nines. School programs and competitions also introduce students to the game and create opportunities to develop skills, confidence and teamwork.

Participation is not limited to playing. Coaching, umpiring and volunteering provide other ways to contribute, learn new skills and remain connected to the football community.

Player Development and Talent Pathways

AFL NSW/ACT works with the Sydney Swans and GWS Giants to support junior Academy and development programs across the state and territory. These programs provide opportunities for emerging players to develop their football and work towards higher-level competition, including potential pathways to AFL and AFLW clubs.

For players and families considering the next stage of their development, the official AFL NSW/ACT Talent Pathwaysinformation provides an overview of available programs and links to the Swans and Giants Academy zones. This is a useful starting point for understanding the broader development opportunities alongside club football.

AFL Sydney and the Sydney Football League

AFL NSW/ACT supports a football system that provides opportunities for different levels of participation and ambition.

From April 2027, the Sydney Football League (SFL) will become New South Wales’ premier Australian Rules Football competition. Its inaugural structure includes Senior Men’s, Senior Women’s, Men’s Under 19.5s and Women’s Under 20s, with nine licensed foundation clubs, including the Pennant Hills Demons. The competition is designed to strengthen playing standards and development opportunities for players, coaches, umpires and officials.

AFL Sydney will continue alongside the SFL, providing men’s and women’s divisional football, underage competitions and Masters football. Additional teams fielded by SFL clubs will participate in the appropriate AFL Sydney divisions, maintaining opportunities for players with different experience levels and football goals.

For Pennant Hills, this structure brings together participation in the premier competition with an ongoing place in community and divisional football.

Supporting Coaches, Umpires and Volunteers

Strong football programs depend on the people who organise, teach and support the game. AFL NSW/ACT’s coaching and umpiring development work focuses on improving standards, supporting participation and creating opportunities to progress through the football system.

Through the AFL’s broader resources, clubs and volunteers can also access practical information about club management, facilities, participation, safety and inclusion. These resources support the work undertaken behind the scenes to keep local football operating.

Safe, Inclusive and Respectful Football

A positive football environment depends on clear expectations and respect for everyone involved. AFL NSW/ACT publishes codes of conduct covering clubs, players, officials, supporters and umpires, while the National Community Football Policy Handbook provides guidance on registration, member protection, safeguarding, health and safety, and disciplinary processes.

Players, families, coaches and volunteers should refer to the current competition rules and official policies when seeking information about their responsibilities. These resources support fair participation and help clubs provide welcoming environments on and off the field.

Leaving the Game Stronger for Future Generations

The commitment to leaving football and its community in better shape is reflected in three principles highlighted on this page: Accountable, Progressive and Respectful.

Accountable

Take responsibility for actions, commitments and results. Communicate openly, act honestly and make timely decisions. Follow through on promises, support others and remain committed when challenges arise.

Progressive

Keep looking for ways to improve. Respect the game’s history while remaining open to new ideas, better practices and opportunities to strengthen football for future generations.

Respectful

Value different backgrounds, abilities and perspectives. Listen to others, recognise their contributions and work cooperatively. Treat people with fairness and humility, helping create an environment where everyone feels welcome and able to contribute.

Find Out More

Visit the AFL NSW/ACT website for official news, participation opportunities, league information, talent pathways and resources for players, families, coaches, umpires and volunteers.