AFL to ‘ban’ broadcasters from only using ‘white men’ to cover footy

The AFL has reportedly introduced a “social inclusion clause” into its next broadcast deal with Channel 7 and Foxtel in an effort to diversify the presentation of matches.

The AFL has reportedly introduced a “social inclusion clause” into its next broadcast deal. Picture: SEN Breakfast

The AFL has reportedly introduced a “social inclusion clause” into its next broadcast deal in an effort to diversify the presentation of matches.

The agreement with broadcasters Channel 7 and Foxtel will ban them from only using “white men sitting behind a desk” from next season, football reporter Tom Morris said.

The Channel 9 reporter made the claim on SEN Breakfast on Thursday alongside retired AFL legend Garry Lyon.

The AFL has introduced a "social inclusion clause to diversify the presentation of football" at Channel 7 and Fox Footy from 2025 onwards.@tommorris32 explains 👇@SENBreakfast | #AFLpic.twitter.com/iAqzcJYNJq

— SEN 1116 (@1116sen) August 1, 2024

“There is a requirement or commitment from the AFL that has been ticked and signed as part of this agreement to have diverse voices, to have representation from minorities,” Morris said.

“It is the first time it has been written into a broadcast rights agreement, meaning you can’t just have white men sitting behind a desk for every single broadcast that you do.

“You need to diversify, that is across Seven and Fox.”

Former Demons great Lyon remained sceptical about the reported change.

“That won’t make much difference anyway, will it?” he asked.

“There’s women and is that what you are alluding to? Women play a massive part in both broadcasts.”

The agreement with broadcasters Channel 7 and Foxtel will ban them from only using “white men sitting behind a desk”. Picture: Seven

The purported move has sparked fierce debate between football fans on social media.

“How about we just give the job to whoever is best at it? Workplace quotas (are) not the answer and will just ensure an inferior product,” one user wrote online.

But other commenters welcomed the move.

“Fair enough it’s not like the old private school white boys club is kicking it out of the park,” a user wrote.

“I’m sure this already exists. Sounds like AFL just put it in writing now,” another wrote.

The AFL was contacted for comment.