AFL Barwon announces ‘Barwon Blueprint’ initiative to strengthen the future of community sport.

AFL Barwon has today announced the establishment of a Steering Committee to lead the development of the Barwon Blueprint - a long-term, region-wide strategy focused on strengthening the sustainability, competitiveness and future viability of community football and netball across the Barwon region. 

The Steering Committee will undertake a comprehensive review of competition structures, club sustainability, participation pathways and competitive balance levers across senior and junior netball and football leagues.

The key output of this work will be a recommendations report outlining a long-term competition roadmap, including structural options and transition plans. 

The initiative comes in response to ongoing concerns about widening competitive gaps, increasing pressure on volunteer-driven clubs, and the need to ensure local sport remains strong and sustainable for future generations.

AFL Barwon CEO and Chair of the Steering Committee, Kate Patterson, said the review represents an important opportunity for the region to work collaboratively on the future of community sport.

“Our region is widely recognised as one of the strongest community football and netball regions in Victoria, but we cannot afford to be complacent,” Kate said.

“We are seeing clear sustainability challenges caused by competitive imbalance, and participation issues that impact long-term club viability in some parts of our region, while others are experiencing rapid growth. This project is about taking a proactive, evidence-based approach to ensure our competitions remain strong, relevant and sustainable well into the future.

“Importantly, this process will be genuinely collaborative and consultative. Clubs, leagues, volunteers and key stakeholders will all have an opportunity to contribute to shaping the future direction of football and netball in our region.”

The Steering Committee will examine a broad range of issues, including competition structures, club movement mechanisms, junior-to-senior pathways, participation growth, operational impacts and support mechanisms for clubs.

Chair of the AFL Barwon Board, Ashley West, said the review is focused on protecting the long-term health of local sport rather than short-term outcomes.

“Community sport is one of the foundations of our region. It brings people together, creates connection and provides opportunities for people of all ages to participate and belong,” Ashley said.

“To protect that future, we must be prepared to have constructive conversations and make considered decisions that support the long-term sustainability of clubs and competitions across the region. 

“This is not about winners and losers between leagues or clubs. It is about ensuring the entire ecosystem of community football and netball remains strong, competitive and viable for decades to come.” 

The Steering Committee will include representatives from AFL Barwon, all four regional leagues, AFL Victoria, Netball Victoria and independent subject matter experts. Stakeholder consultation will occur throughout 2026.

A final recommendations report is expected to be presented.

To learn more about the Barwon Blueprint and register for project updates, visit www.aflbarwon.com.au/the-barwon-blueprint