After an epic grand final, we’re turning just one eye towards the upcoming AFL free agency and trade period. So, you might be wondering, when does it all begin?
» Every trade rumour, all in one place!
» Complete list of free agents
» Every club’s draft picks
Things officially begin on Friday 7 October, when the free agency period opens.
During this time, clubs can either sign unrestricted free agents or make offers to restricted free agents.
Unrestricted signings are processed immediately, but restricted free agents must wait for their current club to decide whether or not they will match the offer.
The clubs of restricted free agents have three days in which to make this decision. If they decide to match the offer then the free agent must decide either to stay with their current club or look to move clubs via another means. If they decline, then the player immediately joins their new club.
Then on Monday 10 October, starting from 10am, the trade period is officially open.
This means clubs are allowed to lodge trades between two or more parties, and it’s where the bulk of player movement takes place.
Due to new rules introduced last year, clubs have the ability to trade players as well as draft picks for both the current year and also one year in advance.
On Sunday 16 October at 5pm, the free agency period officially ends – all offers to free agents must be lodged by this time.
Wednesday 19 October is the latest possible date by which clubs can make matching decisions on restricted free agents.
Finally, the trade period comes to a close – usually with a flurry of activity! – on Thursday 20 October, at 2pm. All trades must be lodged by this time.
The Roar will be providing extensive coverage of this year’s free agency and trade period, so buckle up and get ready for what should be an entertaining off-season.
All times are AEDT.
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