AFL Victoria announces change to player points system

There will be a slight change to the controversial player points system next year making it easier for some clubs to attract players. Here’s what we know.

AFL Victoria has confirmed the controversial Player Points System (PPS) used in local footy competitions across the state will undergo some changes for season 2024.

The game’s governing body announced on Thursday, a small update to the points allocated for individual players and one-point players (the smallest amount one person can be allocated).

In its statement, AFL Victoria said the “modifications” came after consultation with stakeholders in metro and country competitions.

The changes will only be in place from next season and are not retrospective.

“An assessment of player pathways identified that after seven seasons, the policy needed to be reviewed to make it easier for clubs and leagues to attract one-point players, where the player pathway has previously made it prohibitive,” the statement said.

“The review determined that the system requires localised solutions which are best managed at the metropolitan league or country region level.

“Where the player pathway from junior to senior football in an area or region can restrict clubs being able to access one-point players, a metropolitan league or regional body may now adopt By Law clauses which create a clearer player pathway between junior and senior clubs.

“All By Laws clauses must be approved by AFL Victoria following endorsement by the CCSP Advisory Panel, with the definition of the one-point category variable depending on local conditions.

“The adoption of specific league or region By Laws is not compulsory nor automatic and it is not expected that all leagues or regions will seek to deviate from the current policy interpretations.”

In the same statement, it was also confirmed a introduce an Community Club Sustainability Program integrity program.

This will help with the delivery of the CCSP.

The integrity program team will include a lead to oversee the program.

“For competing 2024 grand finalists and as deemed necessary, integrity reviews of clubs will be conducted by the integrity team under the guidance and support of the AFL Victoria integrity lead.

Originally published as AFL Victoria announces change to player points system