WorkSafe Victoria launches investigation into AFL concussion practices

WorkSafe Victoria has opened an investigation into the Australian Football League’s concussion management, focusing on the league’s handling of head impacts during training and its collision‑load tracking since November 2022. In‑game incidents are excluded and the regulator expects to provide an update by July 28.

The probe follows an epidemic of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) diagnoses among former players – 33 ex‑AFL athletes have been posthumously diagnosed, 19 of whom died by suicide. The AFL’s current 12‑day return‑to‑play policy has been criticised, with research indicating brain disturbances can persist for up to 28 days after a concussion. Notable neurologist Paul McCrory quit the league’s concussion advisory group in 2021, and former Victorian Coroner John Cain has called for limits on contact during training.

WorkSafe is also reviewing the death of local Victorian footballer Nathan Fitzgerald, who suffered a fatal head injury during a match. Letters from grieving friends and former players have urged the AFL to strengthen its duty of care for current and future athletes.