AFL boss Gillon McLachlan has reiterated that the league's position on fan behaviour has not changed amid a recent highlighting of increased security at matches.
The CEO fronted a press conference on Tuesday in which he responded to criticism stemming from a reported crackdown on crowd behaviour.
Reading from a prepared statement, McLachlan said that there hadn't been a directive to change the way security and police acted at games.
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"It is devastating to think that our fans believe something has changed that is trying to limit their enjoyment at the footy," McLachlan said, while reminding people of their responsibilities to fans.
"Every fan must feel they can express themselves, but likewise, every fan has a right to feel safe.
"We have been the family game, a passionate game, we're not a game of abuse or anti-social behaviour."
McLachlan said he had been in touch with venues and police to ensure they "get the balance right" and that security were properly trained.
The league boss said the security and policing was normally left to venues, though refused to apportion blame for the recent bad publicity.
A viral photo of security staff wearing 'Behavioural Awareness Officer' vests drew criticism over the weekend, with McLachlan saying he thought it was a bad look: "My personal view is - they're not right and they should go."
McLachlan was also asked about comments Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett made regarding security contractors
Kennett suggested some of the staff were "new arrivals" to Australia and didn't have an understanding of the game.
McLachlan said he was disappointed with Kennett's comments and had spoken to him about the matter, with the former Victorian Premier expressing his regret over the comments.
This morning I spoke to Gill McLachlan about my comments yesterday 're a Behavioural Awareness Officer at Marvel Stadium at Friday night's game. I expressed my regret at using some of the words I did and apologise for doing so.
— Jeff Kennett (@jeff_kennett) June 18, 2019
