Geelong Football Club fined $140,000 by AFL over concussion waiver

The Australian Football League (AFL) has fined the Geelong Football Club $140,000 following an investigation into a concussion waiver included in defender Jake Kolodjashnij’s 2024 contract. The penalty consists of a $100,000 fine and the activation of a previously suspended $40,000 sanction related to third-party agreement reporting.

An independent review by James Peters KC found that the club breached AFL rules by entering into an unauthorised contract variation and failing to lodge the document with the AFL and the AFL Players’ Association (AFLPA). The waiver required Kolodjashnij to assume legal responsibility for future brain trauma to allow him to continue playing after multiple concussions. While the review concluded the failure to lodge the document was an administrative oversight rather than a deliberate attempt to deceive, the AFL Commission noted the incident raises significant questions regarding informed consent and player safety.

Geelong officials maintained they acted in good faith, noting the arrangement was made in consultation with medical experts and the player’s family. Jake Kolodjashnij has since returned to training. AFL Commissioner Paul Bassat stated that the league will continue to work with medical experts and the AFLPA on policy matters regarding player health and safety.