The decision to move the AFL Women's grand final from the Gabba to Metricon Stadium has been condemned as an affront to the women's game. Despite a successful inaugural season, the venue change has highlighted ongoing prioritisation issues within the AFL.
The Gabba became unavailable due to new turf being laid for the men's Ashes Test, scheduled for November. This forced the grand final, which was set to be hosted by the top-placed Brisbane Lions, to be moved to Metricon Stadium, where it will now serve as a curtain raiser to a men's match.
Former players and coaches, including Jonathan Brown and Leigh Matthews, criticised the decision. Brown labelled footballers as 'second-rate citizens' in Brisbane, while Matthews noted the contrast with Etihad Stadium's quick turnaround after an Adele concert. AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan expressed anger but confirmed the men's round-two match would not be moved.
Critics argue the issue is gendered, pointing to the AFL's willingness to sacrifice the women's final while prioritising men's fixtures. Lions CEO Greg Swann stated that 'all hell would break loose' if the men's game was shifted. Some players, like Adelaide coach Bec Goddard, have accepted the change graciously, but the controversy persists.
Meanwhile, Cricket Australia announced a landmark pay deal for female cricketers, with an average 125% pay rise. This contrasts with the AFLW's ongoing struggles for equal treatment.
