What changed
2026-08-27 04:49 UTC → 2026-09-08 00:12 UTC ·
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WorkSafe Victoria opened Following an investigation into by James Peters KC, the AFL concussion management in July 2026. By early August, it was revealed that fined the Geelong Football Club had required player Jake Kolodjashnij to sign a confidential 2024 waiver shifting all liability for future brain injuries onto the athlete. The AFL Players Association (AFLPA) identified the agreement as a breach $140,000—consisting of workplace-safety rules and the collective bargaining agreement. AFL Commission chairman Craig Drummond, who served as Geelong president when the deal was signed, issued a public apology on 8 August 2026, admitting the club “went too far” $100,000 fine and acknowledging a “process failure.” Drummond has recused himself from suspended $40,000 sanction—for entering an unauthorised contract variation and failing to lodge the investigation. Geelong coach Chris Scott stated he was kept “at arm’s length” from document with the situation. Former player Jimmy Bartel criticized AFL and AFLPA. While the move as either “gross incompetence or a deceitful act.” On 10 August, investigation confirmed the AFL engaged King’s Counsel James club breached rules, Peters to assist in investigating KC found the club’s handling of failure to lodge the agreement. Geelong indicated it would use email correspondence waiver was an “oversight rather than an attempt to argue deceive” and noted that Geelong had consulted with doctors, lawyers, insurers, and the player’s family. AFL Commission chairman Craig Drummond apologized, stating the player’s health was aware of the negotiations, despite primary focus, though he noted the document not being formally disclosed. By 12 August, Kolodjashnij player’s private medical information had stepped away from both AFL and VFL football, leaving his playing been released without consent. As of early September 2026, Jake Kolodjashnij’s professional future in a “holding pattern.” On 15 August, Joel Selwood defended Scott, arguing remains uncertain. The 30-year-old has not played since Round 18 and is currently undergoing a coach likely lacks knowledge of the “specific intricacies” new series of contract documentation. By 18 August, the AFL issued the concussion tests. The club a ‘please explain’ notice regarding the waiver. Following the investigation, the AFL fined is reportedly navigating medical uncertainty following the Geelong Football Club $140,000, comprising a $100,000 fine departure of previous medical staff. Despite pressure from teammates and the activation of a suspended $40,000 sanction AFLPA for third-party agreement reporting failures. James Peters KC found the club breached AFL rules by entering an unauthorised contract variation and failing to lodge his return, the document decision remains with the AFL and AFLPA. club, leaving his long-term status in a state of uncertainty.