How to get an AFL player agent.

To be represented in AFL contract negotiations you must use an agent accredited by the AFL Players’ Association, or negotiate yourself through a parent or legal guardian. An agent can approach a player from 1 October in the year they turn 16, but can only sign them once they are at least 17 and eligible for the next draft.

1. Understand the rules

Only an AFL Players’ Association accredited agent, or your parent or guardian, can negotiate an AFL playing contract. You can also represent yourself. Knowing this keeps you from wasting time with anyone who is not accredited.

2. Know what to look for

Accreditation is the baseline, not the differentiator. Look for an agent who is genuinely across contracts and commercial detail, who you will actually deal with directly, and who thinks about your whole career rather than just the next deal.

3. Reach out

You do not have to wait to be approached. Get in touch, tell them honestly where you are and what you want, and see whether they are a fit. A good agent will give you a straight read even if the answer is "not yet".

4. Have the first conversation

Treat the first call as a two-way interview. Ask who will manage you, how they charge, and what they will do for you before and during your first season. If you want a head start, see our guide to the questions to ask a sports agent before you sign.