AFL

Dust off your scarves as the 2025 AFL season is just around the corner! Here is everything you need to know to be ready for a massive season of footy.

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Everything That Is Happening in the World of AFL Right Now

Our favourite months of the year are the AFL ones. If you agree, you are likely spending every spare minute soaking up the news and happenings in the AFL world between each weekend’s run of games. Well, we’re making it easy for you with this dedicated AFL news page.

Add this page to your bookmark list for two reasons:

We will continually update it with the latest AFL news so you’ll always know what is happening across the sport

This is a link to our dedicated AFL season tickets page – you’ll be able to search by team or by round and find the best seats at the best prices for every AFL match of the season. It’s your golden pass to see all of the action live

Now that we have those two important parts sorted, let’s push on and learn what is happening in the AFL world that is worth looking at right now.

AFL player watch

The early rounds of the 2025 AFL season are already throwing up some intriguing storylines about player futures and contract tensions.

Some veterans are finding themselves in tricky spots. Dylan Shiel at Essendon is weighing up his options with limited club movement prospects, while Collingwood’s Will Hoskin-Elliott is battling to maintain his place in a competitive lineup.

Sam Docherty at Carlton is still finding his feet, potentially facing VFL time if he can’t lock down a consistent role. West Coast’s Oscar Allen is perhaps the most fascinating case – a young captain with multiple clubs reportedly keen to snag him, navigating contract negotiations while his team rebuilds. The “bidding race” for his signature could get spicy.

On a brighter note, veterans like Taylor Walker are defying age, continuing to impress with clever positioning and benefiting from Adelaide’s revamped ball movement strategies.

North Melbourne’s rising midfield

Something special is brewing at North Melbourne. After years of struggle, the Kangaroos have just delivered a statement performance that’s turning some heads and restoring faith among their followers.

Their demolition of Melbourne was a declaration. Led by emerging stars like Tom Powell and Tristan Xerri, the Roos dominated across the field, outplaying a star-studded Demons midfield with remarkable efficiency.

Coach Alastair Clarkson’s draft strategy is finally bearing fruit. Young guns like Powell, who collected a team-high 31 disposals, and key defender Charlie Comben are proving they’re more than just potential – they’re the real deal.

The stats tell a compelling story: 52 more disposals, 19 more contested possessions, and a performance that suggests North Melbourne isn’t just rebuilding – they’re reloading. Fans who’ve endured tough seasons can finally see a light at the end of the tunnel.

Adelaide’s midfield revolution

If we want to talk about a transformation, we need to talk about the currently second-placed Adelaide Crows. They have gone from being labelled “vanilla” to potentially championship contenders in just 12 months. Their midfield, once criticised for being predictable, is now destroying the competition.

Led by skipper Jordan Dawson and the resurgent Matt Crouch, the Crows have found a magic formula. Izak Rankine’s electric play and emerging talents like Sid Draper have injected serious X-factor into their engine room. Their forward line is equally impressive, with Riley Thilthorpe, Darcy Fogarty, and, in some ways, Taylor Walker (who needs to retire) forming a three-headed monster that’s terrifying opponents. Two massive wins – by more than 10 goals each – have already stamped the Crows as serious contenders.

With an average midfield age of just 24 and a newfound confidence, the Crows are making statements. We never thought we’d say this, but Adelaide are a premiership contender.

The AFL is heating up in Round 3

Port Adelaide’s debuting their third new player in as many weeks, though they’re nursing a brutal blow with Jack Lukosius suffering a fractured kneecap that’ll sideline him for 2025.

Carlton’s got some injury headaches, with star forward Harry McKay’s availability for Friday’s clash against the Bulldogs still uncertain due to lingering illness. The Demons are also feeling the pinch after a tough loss to North Melbourne, with Matthew Jefferson undergoing hand surgery and Jake Lever nursing a rolled ankle.

Richmond’s looking to bounce back after getting belted by Port Adelaide, planning to welcome back Tom Lynch from suspension. Meanwhile, the GWS Giants are potentially set for a massive boost, with Kieren Briggs, Jesse Hogan, and Jake Stringer all potentially returning.

The AFL rumour mill

All eyes are on Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and his uncertain future at the Western Bulldogs. Coach Luke Beveridge is treading carefully, describing the situation as “a bit rubbery” while emphasising the club still holds out hope for Ugle-Hagan’s return.

Beveridge’s comments suggest the club is taking a patient approach, recognising Ugle-Hagan’s personal challenges while keeping the door open for his potential comeback. Media speculation is running wild, with some pundits suggesting Sydney might be a front-runner if he decides to leave.

The coach drew an interesting parallel, comparing Ugle-Hagan’s journey to his own experiences of maturity, noting that young players develop at different rates. He’s adamant that any decision will be made through “groupthink”, prioritising what’s best for the player and the club.

Meanwhile, the speculation hasn’t been helped by Ugle-Hagan’s social media presence, with reports suggesting he’s been more active online than at team events. The Bulldogs are walking a delicate line, trying to support their young star while maintaining team cohesion.

AFL Tickets & Match Day: Your Essential Fan Guide

This is the best spot on the internet for true footy fans who are looking for the perfect seats to catch all the high-flying marks, spectacular goals, and bone-crunching tackles of the AFL season.

At Queen of Tickets, we pride ourselves on being the best source for AFL tickets for every match throughout the season. From the opening bounce of Round 1 to the unbeatable atmosphere of the Grand Final at the MCG, we’ve got premium seating options to suit every budget.

You’ll never miss a game thanks to our user-friendly platform and 100% guaranteed tickets. Queen of Tickets makes securing your perfect seats quick and hassle-free. An unforgettable AFL experience starts here!

Going to an AFL match is one of life’s great thrills, but sometimes, figuring out tickets and match day details can be a bit confusing. We’ve put together this guide to answer all your questions about AFL tickets and match day logistics so you can focus on enjoying the game!

AFL Ticket Access

What’s the difference between General Admission and Reserved Seating?

General Admission (GA) lets you enter designated areas in the stadium, but seats are first-come, first-served. Reserved Seating guarantees you a specific spot. So, if you want to lock in a particular seat, you’ll want to opt for a reserved ticket.

When are AFL tickets released for the general public?

The exact timing is usually announced closer to the start of the Toyota AFL Premiership Season. Fixtures for later rounds (like Rounds 16-23) often come out partway through the season, with the final Round 24 scheduled even later. The AFL likes to keep some flexibility in the schedule, so stay tuned to official AFL and club communications to make sure you don’t miss out.

Why do tickets for popular games sell out so quickly?

Popular games can have thousands of people trying to buy tickets at the same time, which is why they sometimes sell out in minutes or even seconds! When someone starts a purchase, those tickets are temporarily held for them, making them unavailable to others. If they don’t complete the transaction, the tickets go back into the pool. To boost your chances, have your Ticketek or Ticketmaster account details and payment info ready before sales open, and avoid using multiple browsers or devices, as this can actually slow down your purchase.

Can I get a refund or exchange if I can’t make it to a match anymore?

Generally speaking, tickets can’t be refunded or exchanged just because your plans have changed, you’ve changed your mind, or you made a mistake when purchasing. AFL tickets are typically non-refundable, but life happens, and if you get stuck, contact Queen of Tickets, and we’ll see what we can do.

What happens if an AFL match is cancelled, postponed, or rescheduled?

If a game is completely cancelled, you’ll typically get an automatic refund to your original payment method. For postponed or rescheduled games, the event organiser might offer options like a refund or credit. The AFL reserves the right to change the fixture at any time, and they’re generally not responsible for indirect losses (like accommodation or flight costs) if a game changes. This is especially worth keeping in mind if you’re travelling interstate for a game – consider travel insurance!

AFL Match Day

When do the stadium gates open before an AFL game?

Stadium gates usually open about 90 minutes before the scheduled start time unless otherwise specified. For popular matches, it’s a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes before the game starts to allow enough time for entry, especially if you’re carrying a bag that needs to be checked.

What should I do if my ticket doesn’t scan at the gate?

If your mobile ticket won’t scan, just find one of the helpful membership staff members nearby. They’re usually stationed at the ticket boxes near the stadium gates (like the South, East, and North gates at Adelaide Oval). They’re there specifically to help with these issues and will make sure you get to see the game.

Where are the General Admission areas located at AFL stadiums?

General Admission areas are different at each stadium since every venue has its own unique layout. For example, at Adelaide Oval, all the purple areas on the seating map are for General Admission. Always check the stadium’s official seating map or match day guide for specific details about your venue.

What items aren’t allowed in AFL stadiums?

Stadiums have rules about prohibited items to keep everyone safe. Here’s what you generally can’t bring:

• Weapons, illegal drugs, flares, fireworks, pyrotechnics, laser pointers
• Professional cameras with large lenses or tripods, drones, and remote control vehicles
• Large flags/banners (bigger than 1.6m), musical instruments, folding chairs/stools, confetti, shredded paper, balloons, inflatable items
• Glass bottles, cans, outside alcohol (though homemade food and non-alcoholic drinks in plastic bottles are usually okay – see next question)
• Large bags (bigger than 40cm x 40cm x 40cm or non-pliable), unauthorised advertising material

Your bags will likely be searched when you enter, and large bags might not be allowed in or might need to be checked at a cloakroom.

Can I bring my own food and non-alcoholic drinks into the stadium?

This varies by venue, but most stadiums are pretty reasonable about letting you bring homemade food and non-alcoholic beverages. They need to be properly packaged (plastic bottles are fine, but glass and cans usually aren’t) and in reasonable quantities, typically limited to one serving per person. Thermoses with tea or coffee are usually okay, too. Water bottles are generally welcome and can be refilled at stations throughout the stadium.

What facilities are available at major AFL stadiums?

The big AFL stadiums like the MCG and Marvel Stadium have got you covered with everything you might need:

• Parents’ Rooms with changing tables, microwaves, and private feeding areas
• First Aid stations staffed by St John Ambulance personnel
• Accessible facilities, including lifts, ramps, and sensory rooms
• Cashless payments at many venues, including Marvel Stadium (so bring your cards!)
• Cloaking services for items that can’t come into the stadium

How long does a typical AFL game last?

A men’s AFL match usually runs for just under three hours from start to finish. The game has four quarters of 20 minutes of actual playing time, but “time-on” is added for stoppages (like injuries or throw-ins), which typically makes each quarter around 25-30 minutes. There’s a six-minute break between the first and second quarters (quarter-time) and between the third and fourth quarters (three-quarter-time), with a longer 20-minute break at half-time. AFLW games have shorter quarters (17 minutes plus time-on) and typically wrap up in under two hours.

What’s the best way to get to and from AFL stadiums?

Public transport is definitely the way to go, especially in Melbourne. Venues like the MCG and Marvel Stadium have excellent train, tram, and bus connections, with extra services running before and after games. Walking from nearby train stations (like Flinders, Jolimont, or Richmond for the MCG) is popular and adds to the pre-game buzz as fans stream toward the stadium together.

What should I bring to an AFL game for maximum comfort?

Besides your ticket or membership, a few items can make your day much better. For day games, definitely bring a hat and sunscreen, as some venues don’t have enough shade for everyone. A folding camping chair or blanket can be a lifesaver if you’re sitting on grassy embankments or in general admission areas without fixed seating. It’s a good idea to bring your own water bottle (you can refill it inside) and some homemade snacks if you’re on a budget. If you’re a real footy buff, a small radio with earbuds lets you listen to the commentary while watching the action.

Any tips for first-timers to make the most of their AFL experience?

If it’s your first time at the footy, try to arrive early and soak up the pre-game atmosphere. Walk along the river toward the MCG and check out the statues outside the stadium. If you’re new to the game, just follow the crowd’s reactions, cheer when they cheer, and clap when they clap! Be aware that rivalry games can get a bit more passionate in terms of fan behaviour. For day games, try to grab a seat out of direct sunlight if you can. Most importantly, just enjoy the unique experience of being part of a roaring crowd watching one of Australia’s greatest sporting traditions!