The Australian Football League (AFL) has announced its decision to maintain general admission ticket prices for the seventh consecutive season, indicating its commitment to making the sport more accessible during turbulent economic times.
This move means general admission tickets will remain priced at $27 for adults, $18 for concession tickets, and $5 for juniors aged 14 and under, with children aged four and under continuing to enter free of charge. A family ticket consisting of two adults and two children will still be available for $54 as well.
AFL Chief Executive Andrew Dillon emphasized the significance of this price freeze, especially for families grappling with the challenges posed by the cost-of-living crisis. "On any weekend, there could be four to five matches in Victoria, and we understand the cost-of-living pressures across every household and every business, which is why we are committed to ensuring as many people as possible can enjoy the excitement of our game firsthand," Dillon stated.
Dillon acknowledged the support from AFL clubs, which set their home match ticket prices, thankfulness directed to those who assisted with the continuation of the price freeze at the iconic MCG and Marvel Stadium venues. This decision is timely, considering last year saw record-breaking attendance figures, with more than 7.7 million fans attending home and away matches.
The 2025 AFL fixture is set to showcase 89 home and away matches, with 47 matches taking place at the MCG and 42 at Marvel Stadium. Ticket sales for the upcoming season will begin at midday on February 19 for the general public, with AFL and club members able to purchase their tickets earlier, on February 18.
This price freeze is not just significant for the current ticketing structure; it reflects the league’s broader commitment to affordability, particularly as it follows initiatives such as the freezing of entry-level finals tickets and the Kids Go Free campaign during school holidays. Dillon remarked, "We are proud to keep the game affordable so fans can enjoy the sport." He noted how the commitment endeavored to provide families opportunities to support their teams without the financial burden often associated with attending live events.
Commentators are viewing this price freeze as unprecedented. SEN's Sam Edmund commented on the decision during his show: "Seven years in a row they've frozen general admission ticket prices for AFL games, which is quite extraordinary!" With the upcoming season on the horizon, there's optimism about matching attendance records from last year.
With 2025's season quickly approaching, the AFL is enthusiastic about seeing what engagement looks like, predicting another full stadium for their matches. They are not only maintaining ticket prices but also fostering community enthusiasm and excitement around their events. This reinforces the notion of the AFL being one of the most loved sports organizations within Australia.
Overall, the announcement reflects the AFL's significant work toward maintaining fan engagement and ensuring attendance remains sustainable for families across the nation. With the constraints brought on by rising costs, fans can still relish the thrill of live football without facing exorbitant pricing.
Fans eagerly await the new season as ticket sales approach, excited to once again fill the iconic venues of Australia. The AFL's proactive approach demonstrates their acknowledgment of the economic climate and the necessity to connect families and communities through sport, irrespective of financial constraints. The 2025 season is shaping up to be not only about stops and runs but about inclusivity and community spirit as well.