Cricket Victoria and AFL Victoria announce facility agreement renewal

Cricket Victoria and AFL Victoria, in partnership with the Victorian Government, have reaffirmed their commitment to community sports by renewing the Division of Seasons agreement, which focuses on optimising the shared use of sporting facilities across the state.

Extending until 31st March 2028, this updated agreement aims to serve as a valuable resource for local government, community leagues, associations and clubs, providing clarity on seasonal fixturing and facility usage at the grassroots level.

Coordinated by Sport and Recreation Victoria, under the agreement, the winter Australian rules season will run from 1st April to 30th September each year with the summer cricket season scheduled from 1st October to 31st March.

The broad principle of the agreement is that cricket clubs are afforded priority use rights of shared facilities during the traditional summer season (October to March) and community Australian rules football clubs have priority access to shared facilities during the traditional winter season (April to September).

Commenting on the renewal, Cricket Victoria Chief Executive, Nick Cummins stated “the demand on grounds to be ready for play has never been greater.

“This agreement solidifies the commitment from both cricket and football, and the Victorian Government, to ensure access aligns with seasonal requirements.

“Football can’t wait until May, and cricket can’t delay until November. While each ground has unique characteristics, it’s critical for each code to commence play punctually as the season changes,

“Our new triage process will provide detailed guidance on identifying and escalating issues as needed.

“Local communities are the experts on their facilities, and we aim to empower them in achieving successful outcomes.”

Cummins went to highlight that many of Victoria’s shared sports facilities have been built on a longstanding history of cooperation between cricket and football, spanning nearly 150 years.

A noteworthy addition to this agreement is a newly established resolution process designed to address scheduling conflicts that may affect ground preparation for both cricket and football.

Click here for more information read the Division of Seasons and Occupation of Crown Lands used as grounds for cricket and AFL football competitions.

Image: Women training for community AFL (top) and Cricket Victoria Chief Executive Nick Cummins and AFL Chief Executive Steven Reaper make the facility announcement (below).