VAFA Statement – January 2026

In January 2026, the VAFA appointed an independent investigator to examine allegations regarding inappropriate costumes worn by a number of players from a VAFA club at a private end-of-season function, and the subsequent circulation of images on social media.

The Club and all witnesses cooperated fully with the investigation, which found that four players breached the National Community Football Policy General Code of Conduct and the VAFA Social Media Policy.

The VAFA laid charges and a tribunal hearing was conducted last night, at which all four players pleaded guilty. Penalties of suspensions ranging from two to three matches were imposed and have been accepted by all players.

The VAFA and the Club have also confirmed the following undertakings:

• Players in leadership roles will be stood down until they complete appropriate education sessions, after which their positions will be reviewed;
• The Club will conduct two respectful relationships workshops (as recommended by AFL Victoria) for the men’s playing and coaching group,;
• The Club will undertake a whole-of-club “Healthy Club” workshop facilitated by Relationships Australia.

The VAFA remains committed to upholding its values of respect, inclusion, community and integrity, and to educating all members in support of these principles.