Minister for Tourism and Hospitality
Minister for Major Events
Jinson Charls
Minister for People, Sport and Culture
Joint Media Release CLP backs AFL, major events, and our unique Territory lifestyle
9 May 2026
Finocchiaro CLP Government commits $9 million over three years to support AFL matches in the Territory from 2027 onwards.Darwin to host back-to-back AFL fixtures during Sir Doug Nicholls Round, with Alice Springs to host the 2026 'Heart of the Nation' match.AFLW locked in 2026 as the Government backs women's sport, participation and community connection
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is reinforcing its commitment to back major events, grassroots sport and the unique Territory lifestyle, with $9 million committed over three years in the Territory Budget to support AFL matches in the Northern Territory from 2027 onwards.
The announcement comes as Darwin prepares to host two AFL fixtures across consecutive weekends including the Sir Doug Nicholls Round, with thousands of fans expected to pack TIO Stadium for the Gold Coast Suns' annual Top End matches.
The Government has also confirmed AFLW football will return to the Territory for 2026, while Alice Springs' Traeger Park will again host the annual 'Heart of the Nation' AFL match between Melbourne and GWS on Sunday 31 May 2026.
Minister for Major Events, Marie-Clare Boothby said the commitment reflected the Government's long-term focus on securing major events that drive visitation, support local businesses and strengthens our Territory spirit.
"We are serious about major events because they are part of what makes the Territory lifestyle so unique," Minister Boothby said.
"They fill our hotels, support local cafes and restaurants, create jobs and give Territorians the opportunity to experience elite sport right here at home.
"We know people travel for events, and we want more visitors coming to the Territory, staying longer and exploring more of our regions."
"Backing AFL is about more than football. It is about rebuilding the economy, supporting our community and restoring the Territory lifestyle."
Minister for People, Sport and Culture Jinson Charls said AFL remains deeply connected to communities across the Territory.
"AFL has a long and proud history in the Northern Territory and participation rates continue to lead the nation," Mr Charls said.
"The Northern Territory has the highest participation rate for girls and women in Australian Rules football in the country, and the return of AFLW in 2026 is another exciting opportunity to inspire the next generation."
"AFL plays an important role in Territory life, with tens of thousands participating and the game continuing to connect people and communities beyond match day."
The Territory's AFL fixtures continue to deliver strong economic and tourism outcomes, with previous matches attracting significant interstate visitation and national broadcast exposure.
The 2025 Territory Demand Tracker showed more than half of interstate holiday visitors attended an event while in the Territory, highlighting the important role major events play in driving visitation and supporting the visitor economy.
Minister Boothby said the Government was focused on building a strong pipeline of events across both Darwin and Alice Springs, and throughout the year.
"From Sir Doug Nicholls Round in Darwin to the Heart of the Nation game in Alice Springs, these events showcase the best of the Territory to a national audience," she said.
"In our year of growth, certainty and security, we are continuing to back the events, experiences and lifestyle that make the Territory the best place to live, work, visit and invest."
