Remote projects survive big AFLNT staff cuts in the wake of the serious COVID-19 virus

LAST week’s suspension of community football participation in Australian football and talent programs across Australia due to the COVID-19 virus has hurt the Territory game

Fans pack the stands at the 2020 Tiwi Island Football Grand Final. Picture: Che Chorley

LAST week’s suspension of community football participation in Australian football and talent programs across Australia due to the COVID-19 virus has hurt the Territory game.

The subsequent suspension of the 2020 AFL season and immediate end of the AFLW competition has also raised questions on the viability of both the league and its clubs through the health crisis.

As a result, the operations and staff of AFLNT have been directly impacted.

Almost 80 per cent of staff based in Darwin, Alice Springs, Katherine and Tennant Creek have been temporarily stood down until the end of May.

But seven of the eight AFLNT remote projects will continue to operate on a full-time basis while it is still deemed safe to do so and the community is happy to proceed.

AFL boss Gillon McLachlan has reiterated the AFL’s commitment to the health crisis and detailed his organisation’s AFL’s approach.

“Everyone has a role to play in stopping the spread of this virus,’’ he said. “Every person in every community must take precautions to ensure they stay safe and healthy.

“Each organisation across the football industry has to take action quickly and we have sought to keep our staff fully informed, focus on their health and wellbeing and to support them as best we possibly can.’’

Staff will be able to access their available annual leave and long service entitlements.

The AFL is providing staff stood down with nine additional special leave days at full pay to provide further assistance to them and their families in difficult times.

AFLNT boss Stuart Totham said his office would follow the parent body by standing down 80 per cent of its core workforce until at least May 31.

“It’s a kick in the guts for everyone who loves and cares for our great game and has given tirelessly of themselves,’’ Totham said.

“While there are many challenges still to come, I have never been more proud to lead such a great group of people who understand that football is greater than the individual.’’