Overview

• The AFL and the Western Australian government are in the final stages of negotiation over how to split hosting costs and gate takings for the match.
• If confirmed, the state-v-state fixture will count towards players’ pre-season schedules and replace a club pre-season game for selected athletes.
• Optus Stadium in Perth has been chosen for its 61,000-plus capacity and proven suitability after hosting the Indigenous All Stars and an NRL State of Origin match earlier this year.
• A formal announcement confirming the date, venue and match details is expected later in 2025.
• Unconfirmed team lists for Victoria and Western Australia have circulated in the media but official squads will not be named until the AFL’s announcement.