More Queensland help for the AFL

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has confirmed an approach for more AFL teams to temporarily relocate to Queensland and stay for the remainder of the season.

The announcement came with confirmation Queensland had recorded no new COVID cases overnight and has had no cases of community transfer since May.

The Premier spoke to AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan this morning who was informing players and teams.

“I stress none of these measures can happen without strict quarantine protocols and the COVID management plan that has allowed the AFL season to proceed,” the Premier said.

“The health of Queenslanders comes first.

“But this is a way we can further help Victoria.

“AFL is more than a sport in Victoria.

“I’m sure Victorians would rather the season went ahead in Queensland than not have a season at all.”

Teams already in Queensland include:

• St Kilda
• Richmond
• North Melbourne
• Essendon
• Western Bulldogs and
• Carlton

All other Victorian-based teams will eventually be temporarily relocated to Queensland for the remainder of the home and away season with some teams spending time out of Queensland while completing games in other states such as WA.

“This is a great boost for AFL in our state and the Suns and Lions,” the Premier said.

“And I think Queenslanders should adopt a visiting team and show them what Queensland hospitality is all about.”

The AFL is in the process of booking accommodation for hundreds of players and officials.

The Premier said that’s good news for Queensland’s economy.

“Our economic response is only possible because of our health response and for that I thank each and every Queenslander,” the Premier said.

AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan said the Queensland Government had shown great support for the competition and said all clubs who had moved to Queensland had been extremely complimentary of the training and accommodation facilities.

“I want to thank the Queensland Government for helping us in developing the appropriate protocols and arrangements that allow out teams to be based in the state and for the AFL season to continue for our supporters right around the country,” Mr McLachlan said.

The Premier also took the opportunity to bid for the AFL Grand Final.

“If the season is largely played in Queensland then I think it’s only fair we also host the Grand Final.”

ENDS

Media contact – Shane Doherty 0439 624 473