The AFL’s vision is for everyone to have the opportunity to love and connect with Australia’s game. In order to do this, AFL Queensland strives to ensure a safe, positive and inclusive environment for all.
From Maccas South East Queensland Junior football through to senior competitions in the TPIL Lawyers QAFL and Bond University QAFLW, programs and education initiatives have been introduced to ensure everyone can have a positive experience at the footy.
Orange Wristbands
As part of AFL Queensland’s focus on supporting young officials, orange wristbands have been introduced in 2026 to help identify junior umpires on game day.
The initiative serves as a visual reminder to players, coaches and spectators that many umpires are developing their skills and learning the game, just like the players they officiate.
It aims to encourage patience, understanding and respect towards young officials while helping create a supportive environment for umpire development.
Supportive Sidelines (Junior Competitions)
This weekend, during matches played from 29 to 31 May, AFL Queensland’s Supportive Sidelines initiative will take place. Parents and guardians are encouraged to clap and cheer participation and sportsmanship but leave instruction to the coaches.
Supportive Sidelines aims to play an important role across junior competitions by encouraging positive interactions between fans and players and reducing unnecessary interference during games.
By creating calmer sidelines, players can focus on developing thier skills and listening to their coaches’ instruction.
Sit Down Round (Youth Competitions)
Sit Down Round will take place in Queensland Youth Competitions also across the weekend of May 29 to 31. Sit Down Round is a key initiative aimed at ensuring all coaches and officials on game day practice calm leadership.
During the designated round, coaches and officials are asked to remain seated throughout matches unless required for operational purposes.
Ground Marshalls (Junior and Senior Competitions)
Ground Marshalls are home-club volunteers that ensure a safe, welcoming environment for everyone on match day.
Visible to spectators, coaches, umpires and players by their orange bib, they act as a supervisor and support for umpires and a point of contact for any issues that might arise.
They continue to play a vital role in supporting positive environments across both junior and senior Australian rules football.
To further strengthen the program, AFL Queensland has introduced a new online Ground Marshall accreditation module, providing volunteers with the tools and education needed to confidently manage match day environments.
Together, these initiatives form part of AFL Queensland’s continued commitment to ensuring our game remains a welcoming, respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
We want everyone to have a Great Day at the Footy.