The AFL has informed clubs on Thursday of the vaccination update that will now allow players to participate at the top level, regardless of their dosage status.
The league 'strongly encourages' an up-to-date vaccine status, but revealed it's not a requirement in the revised position of the AFL and all its stakeholders.
AFL GM of Football Andrew Dillon said the changes coincided with the requirements of the industry and were in line with the states and territory's.
“The health and safety of our players, staff and the wider community has been one of the guiding principles governing the AFL’s ongoing response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” Dillon said.
“Our AFL industry has continued to adapt to the circumstances in front of us, and while we have removed the mandatory vaccine mandate, we still maintain the view that vaccinations are the best form of defense in minimizing the impacts of COVID with the focus now on keeping “up to date” with all recommended boosters.
“We will continue to monitor the COVID situation as it evolves. If we need to adjust over the coming weeks and months, we will do so in consultation with the respective governments and medical professionals.
“As an industry we are committed to providing a safe environment for all our people and doing what we can to reduce the risk and impact of transmission of COVID-19 within the community.”
What rules have changed since 2021?
Previously, all players, coaches and those involved within the industry were required to be fully vaccinated, consistent with the state and territory guidelines.
In line with the revised position of the state and territory, the AFL has now removed the mandate to be vaccinated and instead 'strongly encourages' the vaccine to tackle COVID-19.
Did any players refuse to be vaccinated?
AFL players Liam Jones (Carlton) and Cam Ellis-Yolmen (Brisbane) failed to meet the league's vaccine requirements and were unable to participate in the competition, resulting in them playing state and amateur football around the country.
AFLW star Georgia Patrikios (St Kilda) also sat out season six of the Women's league but will now resume training ahead of the seventh edition.
When will the new rules come into effect?
As of Thursday July 14, 2022.
More: Want more AFL? Watch Warriors On The Field celebrating Aboriginal Australia and its long history and association with the AFL. Streaming on AMAZON PRIME VIDEO
