The AFL has confirmed it has put in place a taskforce to work with the Tasmanian government surrounding the potential for a franchise licence for the state.
The competition had earlier confirmed that next year the AFL will put forward its position for a Tasmanian licence to club presidents, as well as a funding model for the entire industry.
The funding model will assess both club funding and the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
AFL broadcasting boss Travis Auld and AFL General Manager Sam Graham will lead the assessment of a potential bid for a Tasmanian licence.
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“We are at a very important juncture in the continued assessment of modelling for a potential team in Tasmania and the announcement today reflects the importance it has within AFL head office,” said AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan.
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“Travis and Sam will lead our work, Travis having recently played a crucial leadership role in ensuring the last two AFL and AFLW seasons were successfully navigated throughout the COVID pandemic.
“Sam, previously holding key leadership roles across game development and our growth in NSW, will solely focus on this project, ensuring we have a preferred position to take to the AFL club presidents next year.”
Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein in October confirmed that legendary coach Alastair Clarkson would work as an advisor to a state taskforce behind the bid.
It’s understood Clarkson will receive a six-month contract to advise the Tasmanian group as it prepares to pitch the idea.