AFL boss Gill McLachlan makes no apologies for stance on social issues

Last year’s scandal-heavy footy season drew plenty of public criticism, but AFL boss Gillon McLachlan remains adamant the code is working to be better.

AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan has welcomed the focus back on footy on the field but also made no apologies for the league’s stance on social issues off the field.

Speaking at the season launch on Thursday night McLachlan spoke with passion about the game he described as the “greatest show on earth”.

“We lead the community on social issues,’’ McLachlan said.

“And those who yell at us to stick to football don’t understand who we are and what we mean in the community – we don’t lecture or tell others what to do. We simply say to everyone in this country that we represent you, or we aspire to. We make it known what we stand for, the AFL and our clubs.

Gillon McLachlan and Laura Blythe arrive to the 2023 Toyota AFL Premiership Season Launch. Picture: Getty Images

“It’s why there will be more than 1.2m club members this year, another record. Sure it’s about going to the game, but it’s as much about that tribal and social connection our clubs have with a record number of people every year.

“It’s not a transaction. It’s about belonging and you don’t get that if people don’t know who you are and what you stand for.

“That’s why we are at record attendances, viewership and participation.

“And, yes, people know we are flawed at times – and like everyone we don’t get everything right — but we are aspiring to be better always.”

Chairman of the AFL Commission Richard Goyder (R) presents Bruce McAvaney Life Membership during the 2023 Toyota AFL Premiership Season Launch. Picture Getty Images

McLachlan pointed out the league’s strong balance sheet and the new $4.5b broadcast deal with about 10 per cent of revenue going into game development.

Importantly he said Tasmania was crucial to the national game.

“To be truly national and truly representative Tasmania needs a team,’’ he said.

“And, with the support of the clubs and the Commission, we need a stadium. Like in Adelaide. Like in Perth. Like on the Gold Coast, the stadium would not only transform football but transform the city. And the state.

Gill McLachlan speaks during the season aunch at Malthouse Theatre. Picture: Getty Images

“And because the deal — if we get there — will be good and because we can afford it and because as a code we make big decisions even if we know the execution is hard. We would not be who we are if we avoided the challenges.”

He added: “This year it is exciting to work closely with our clubs to wipe away any and all references to COVID and concentrate on bringing fans back to our games. And bringing joy back to the game”.

AFL chairman Richard Goyder announced legendary broadcaster Bruce McAvaney would be inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame — the 11th person to enter in the media category.