The AFL Women’s (AFLW) competition has become a celebrated fixture in Australian sports, showcasing incredible talent and inspiring fans worldwide. However, one frequently discussed topic is how much AFLW players get paid. Player salaries have evolved significantly since the league’s inception, reflecting both progress and the ongoing push for gender equity in sports.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll break down AFLW salaries, explain how they’re structured, compare them to AFL wages, and discuss what the future holds for player pay in women’s football.
How Are AFLW Salaries Structured?
AFLW salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) negotiated between the AFL and the AFL Players Association (AFLPA). These agreements set out the pay scale for players, along with other benefits like travel allowances, maternity leave, and injury coverage.
Key Components of AFLW Salaries:
- Tiered Salary System
Players are categorized into tiers based on their experience, skill level, and role in the team:- Tier 1: Top players (captains, marquee players, or stars)
- Tier 2 and 3: Core squad members
- Tier 4: Developmental players or rookies
- Length of the Season
The AFLW season is shorter than the AFL men’s competition, which directly impacts player earnings. In 2023, the AFLW season included 10 home-and-away rounds plus finals. - Part-Time Nature of Contracts
Most AFLW players hold part-time contracts, as the league is still transitioning toward full professionalism.
Current AFLW Salaries: A Breakdown
As of the 2023 AFLW season, the average player salary has risen significantly thanks to recent agreements. Here’s a look at the numbers:
2023 Salary Highlights:
- Minimum Salary (Tier 4): $39,184 per season
- Average Salary: $46,280 per season
- Top Players (Tier 1): $71,935 per season
This represents a substantial increase from the league’s early years, where minimum salaries were under $10,000.
Comparison: AFLW vs. AFL Salaries
While AFLW salaries have improved, they remain far behind the salaries earned by players in the AFL men’s competition. Here’s how they compare:
- AFL Average Salary (Men’s): $372,224 (2023)
- AFL Top Players: Over $1 million annually
- AFLW Top Players: $71,935 annually
Why the Disparity?
- Revenue Differences
The AFL generates billions of dollars annually through ticket sales, broadcast rights, sponsorships, and merchandise. AFLW, while growing rapidly, is still building its financial base. - Season Length
The AFL season consists of 23 rounds plus finals, significantly more than the AFLW’s 10-round season. - Historical Context
AFL has been a professional sport for over a century, while AFLW only began in 2017. The league is still in its growth phase, which limits its financial capacity.
Additional Benefits for AFLW Players
Beyond salaries, AFLW players receive a range of benefits designed to support their careers and well-being:
- Travel Allowances
Players are reimbursed for travel and accommodation expenses when attending away games. - Maternity Leave
AFLW contracts include progressive maternity leave policies, ensuring players can take time off without financial penalties. - Injury Coverage
AFLW players are covered for medical expenses related to injuries sustained during games or training. - Professional Development Opportunities
Many AFLW clubs offer players access to education and career programs, helping them prepare for life after football.
The Journey Toward Pay Equity
Early Salaries (2017–2020)
When AFLW launched in 2017, salaries ranged from $8,500 to $17,000. While these numbers were modest, they marked an important step in providing professional opportunities for women in football.
Recent Progress (2021–2023)
The AFL and AFLPA have worked together to increase player salaries with each new CBA. By 2023, total player payments had increased by 94% compared to 2021, reflecting the league’s commitment to growth.
Long-Term Goals
The AFL has outlined a pathway toward full-time professionalism for AFLW players. This includes plans to:
- Expand the season to 14–17 rounds.
- Increase total player payments significantly.
- Provide full-time contracts for all players.
Challenges in Achieving Pay Equity
While the AFLW has made impressive strides, several challenges remain:
- Revenue Generation
The league must continue to grow its revenue streams, including ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and sponsorship deals. - Balancing Sustainability
Rapid increases in salaries without corresponding revenue growth could strain the league’s finances. - Cultural Perceptions
Shifting societal attitudes about women’s sport is an ongoing process, requiring continued investment in marketing and fan engagement.
The Future of AFLW Salaries
The future of AFLW salaries looks promising, with strong momentum toward achieving full professionalism. Here’s what we can expect:
1. Longer Seasons
Expanding the season to 14 or more rounds will provide players with additional earning opportunities and align the AFLW more closely with the men’s competition.
2. Increased Sponsorship Deals
As AFLW continues to attract larger audiences, sponsorship deals will play a significant role in driving revenue growth. Companies like NAB and Nike are already key partners.
3. Global Recognition
With growing international interest in women’s football, AFLW could follow the lead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, which has demonstrated the global potential of women’s sports.
FAQs About AFLW Salaries
1. Do AFLW Players Work Other Jobs?
Yes, many AFLW players balance football with part-time or full-time jobs in other industries, including teaching, healthcare, and media.
2. Are AFLW Players Paid During the Off-Season?
No. Players are only paid during the AFLW season, which contributes to the need for supplementary income.
3. Will AFLW Salaries Ever Match AFL Salaries?
While parity may take time, the AFL has committed to closing the gap by expanding the league and increasing investment.
Conclusion: How Much Do AFLW Players Get Paid?
AFLW players earn between $39,184 and $71,935 per season, with an average salary of $46,280. While these figures reflect significant progress since the league’s launch in 2017, there is still a long way to go in achieving pay equity with the AFL men’s competition.
As the league continues to grow in popularity and revenue, AFLW salaries are expected to rise, offering players greater financial security and professional opportunities. The AFLW’s journey serves as a testament to the power of persistence and advocacy in advancing gender equity in sports.
Call to Action (CTA)
What are your thoughts on AFLW salaries and the future of women’s football? Share your insights in the comments below! For more updates on AFLW, visit the AFLW Official Website.
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