AFL Barwon will introduce a two-tier system for women’s and girls football next season.
Promotion and relegation will also come into effect after the 2025 season.
The proposed divisions in senior footy, based on the 2024 ladders are Anglesea, St Joseph’s, Newtown & Chilwell, Grovedale, Geelong Amateur, St Mary’s, Barwon Heads, Lara, Torquay and Thomson in Division 1.
Division two will feature Drysdale, Geelong West Giants, South Barwon, Belmont Lions, Modewarre, St Albans and North Geelong, as well as second teams from Barwon Heads, Geelong Amateur and Grovedale.
AFL Barwon also confirmed that Saturday will be considered the primary day of play.
Further details are still to be finalised around how AFL Barwon will assist clubs with managing games on Saturday, with the governing body looking to facilitate multiple female football gala days in a bid to maximise exposure for the league.
AFL Barwon group manager of operations Lisa Patterson believed the changes introduced for the 2025 season helped support the growth of female football in the region.
“Aligning with our male competitions by moving the day of play to Saturday, it allows for a greater showcase of female football in our region that will ultimately strengthen club unity,” Patterson said.
“It’s a significant step forward in promoting inclusiveness, enhancing club culture, and aligning with the continued evolution of female football.”
The 2025 fixtures have been proposed for public release prior to December 20, while a workshop is expected to be held in January for clubs to further discuss competition changes.
