The AFL appeals board has reduced the penalty for Lance Collard from nine games to four for allegedly using a homophobic slur, a decision that has been widely condemned across the sport. The board stated that the reduction was due in part to the fact that the recipient of the remark, Frankston player Darby Hipwell, was not offended by the comment.
In its ruling, the appeals board noted that “football is a hard game” and that “it is commonplace that players can employ language from time to time which is racist, sexist or homophobic whilst on the field.” This reasoning has been criticised as dangerous and contrary to the AFL’s stated zero-tolerance policy on such behaviours.
Former AFLW player Kate McCarthy and reporter Marnie Vinall have echoed concerns that the decision undermines years of advocacy for inclusivity. Critics argue that excusing slurs as an inevitable part of a competitive environment emboldens harmful behaviour and sends a troubling message to players and fans.
The board’s commentary has been described as insulting to workers in other high-stress professions, such as healthcare and emergency services, where such language would result in serious repercussions. The decision has also been criticised for implying that homophobic slurs are acceptable as long as they are not directed at a queer person.
Mitch Brown, who came out publicly last year, expressed disappointment, noting that the ruling appears to reverse progress made in eradicating homophobia, sexism and racism from the sport. He emphasised that slurs cause harm to the entire LGBTQIA+ community, regardless of the intended target.
