# AFL expansion and broadcasting shifts

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/afl-expansion-and-broadcasting-shifts
> Updated: 2026-08-10T06:09:38.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

The AFL has announced the creation of the Sydney Football League (SFL), which is set to become the premier football competition in New South Wales beginning in April 2027. Following a competition review, the new league aims to improve football standards in Greater Sydney and establish pathways for players and officials.

The inaugural SFL will include nine clubs organized into four divisions: Senior Men, Senior Women, Under 19 Men, and Under 20 Women. AFL Chief Operating Officer Tom Harley described the move as a “significant investment to support the growing depth of talent in the state.”

Concurrently, the AFL is adjusting its broadcasting strategies. While some AFLW matches have moved to secondary channels during news windows, the league has also cleared Thursday night broadcast slots to ensure the AFLW receives “uncontested exposure.”

## Timeline

### 2026-08-10: AFL to establish Sydney Football League as NSW premier competition in 2027

The AFL will launch the Sydney Football League in 2027 as New South Wales' premier competition, while the AFLW continues to see shifts in broadcast scheduling and exposure.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/afl-to-establish-sydney-football-league-as-nsw-premier-competition-in-2027

### 2026-07-15: A-League Men 2026‑27 season fixtures released

The A‑League Men 2026‑27 schedule is out, featuring 26 matches per club, new Grassroots Celebration rounds, an opening Sydney Derby on Oct 16, and fixtures running through the Asian Cup, broadcast on Paramount+

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/australias-a-league-unveils-202627-season-schedule

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Cite as: AFL expansion and broadcasting shifts. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/afl-expansion-and-broadcasting-shifts