The AFL North East Border (AFLNEB) region has seen a positive trend in community football participation, with significant growth in recent years, particularly in the post-Covid environment. Compared to 2019, the region has experienced a marked increase in participation, and 2025 shows steady growth compared to 2024, according to data from AFLNEB. A key area of focus has been community-driven football, including club-run and community-run Auskick and Superkick centres. The 2025 season has shown strong growth across almost all categories and age groups, with the exception of junior football, which saw a slight decline compared to 2024. The decline was most noticeable in the 11-year-old age group, who were affected by the COVID years, a time when they would have typically been introduced to Auskick as six-year-olds. However, junior participation is still up by 21 per cent compared to 2019, which is an encouraging sign for the future. “It’s been fantastic to see participation across the region not only bounce back but grow beyond pre-covid levels,” AFL North East Border region manager Zac Hedin said. “The commitment from our local clubs, volunteers, and communities has been the driving force behind this continued growth.” Youth football is in a solid position, with a three per cent increase from 2024 and an impressive 11 per cent growth from 2019. Hedin said it is a credit to the dedication of junior clubs and teams, particularly given the high dropout rate traditionally seen at this stage. Senior football remains below 2019 levels but has stabilised over the past two years, showing signs of improvement. Community-driven Auskick and Superkick centres have seen remarkable growth, with a 10 per cent increase from 2024 and a 13 per cent increase from 2019. “Auskick continues to be a vital part of our football ecosystem,” Hedin said. “We’ve seen incredible energy from community centres who are running innovative programs that make it fun and accessible for kids to get started in the game.” The women and girls segment continues to expand, with the introduction of the under 12 age group in the local NEB Female Football League helping to strengthen the pathway for girls. The initiative provides a clear route for girls to progress from Auskick to community football, creating more opportunities for participation at all levels. “The growth in female participation is one of the real highlights this year,” Hedin said. “With a 54 per cent increase since 2019, we’re seeing more girls picking up a footy and staying involved longer. “The addition of younger age groups at community football level gives them more options and opportunities to get and stay involved.” Key participation stats for 2025 • Total Community Participants: 5710 (+1% vs. 2024, +7% vs. 2019). • Junior Football Participants: 1390 (-4% vs. 2024, +21% vs. 2019). • Youth Football Participants: 1838 (+3% vs. 2024, +11% vs. 2019). • Senior Football Participants: ,481 (+1% vs. 2024, -2% vs. 2019). Community Auskick/Superkick Centres • Total Participants: 1853 (+10% vs. 2024, +13% vs. 2019). Women and Girls Participation • Total Community-Led Participation (Clubs and Auskick): 964 (+11% vs. 2024, +54% vs. 2019). Total Community-Led Participation (Clubs and Auskick Centres) • Total: 7563 (+3% vs. 2024, +8% vs. 2019).
