Overview

• The number of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander players in the AFL has fallen from a peak of 87 in 2020 to just 62 in 2025, the lowest in 19 years.
• Indigenous leaders Michael Long and Stephen Michael are advocating for a whole-of-game approach to improve talent pathways and support First Nations players.
• Long has engaged with AFL clubs to discuss resource allocation and hopes the Sir Doug Nicholls Round will highlight the urgent need for action.
• A 2021 proposal for mandatory Indigenous recruitment by former Essendon list boss Adrian Dodoro failed to gain traction, leaving gaps in talent development.
• This year’s Dreamtime at the 'G match may feature only two Indigenous players, underlining the ongoing decline in representation at the elite level.