As the Big V and Sandgropers prepare to clash in front of a sold-out Optus Stadium for AAMI AFL Origin, the AFL today announced a major funding boost for Western Australia's local football community.
In collaboration with the WA Government and WA Football, all profits from ticket sales of AAMI AFL Origin will be allocated into a new initiative - the Origin Community Fund.
It is projected that more than $1 million will be invested into grassroots and regional development through the Origin Community Fund, ensuring the success of AAMI AFL Origin flows directly back into community football to strengthen talent pathways across the state.
The Origin Community Fund will focus on delivering a multi-year investment into regional and rural hubs to increase equity and access; providing talent pathways and coaching opportunities as well as the implementation of school-based and participation programs, so that everyone can love and connect with Australia's game.
AFL CEO, Andrew Dillon said the return of AAMI AFL Origin demonstrates the deep connection West Australians have to the game, and the importance of reinvesting in its future.
"AAMI AFL Origin has highlighted the extraordinary passion West Australians have for football and for representing their state," Dillon said.
"Importantly, the return of Origin is not just about celebrating the elite game, it's about creating a legacy for the next generation of talent.
"Through the Origin Community Fund, we're ensuring the success of this match delivers a lasting impact, with more than $1 million projected to be reinvested into grassroots and regional football, strengthening talent pathways and creating greater opportunity across the state.
"This investment will help more young people in regional and rural Western Australia see a clear pathway to the elite level, while supporting the coaches, schools and local clubs that are so critical to securing the future of our game."
WA Football Executive Manager Performance Pathways & Development, Peter Bell said the funding would go a long way to increasing equity and access for young footballers around Western Australia.
"We're extremely grateful for the AFL's support as part of the Origin Community Fund as we strive to make our game more accessible for all Western Australians," Bell said.
"The funding will go a long way to increasing equity and access for those in regional and low socio-economic areas in WA, as well as those from First Nations and Multicultural backgrounds.
"We're looking forward to providing a higher level of coaching and training in the regions, and creating regional talent programs so young footballers in those areas can get access to similar opportunities to those living in the city."
Western Australian Minister for Sport and Recreation Hon Rita Saffioti MLA said:
"The WA Government is ensuring the 2026 AFL Origin delivers lasting benefits for community football, with proceeds being reinvested back into the game here in Western Australia.
"Western Australia has a strong football tradition, including in regional areas, and reinvesting proceeds back into WA football helps support opportunities regardless of where players live."
The Origin Community Fund reinforces the AFL's commitment to ensuring major events deliver meaningful outcomes, with investment directed into grassroots initiatives focussed on growing participation, strengthening talent pathways and supporting the next generation of talent.
A similar legacy followed the success of the 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final played at Optus Stadium when the WA Government and the AFL announced a joint commitment of $5 million towards football development in the Kimberley region.
The State Government and AFL each contributed a 50:50 share towards funding the program, providing $1 million per annum to be invested in the Kimberley Investment Framework (KIF) to deliver Initiatives over five years.
AAMI AFL Origin will be delivered with the support of the Western Australian Government, through Tourism WA, and showcase the best of the state to fans all over the country.
The 2026 AAMI AFL Origin match will be broadcast on Seven Network and Foxtel, as well as 7plus and Kayo streaming platforms, spotlighting Perth and its world-class sporting facilities to the rest of the nation.
The match will begin at 4.40pm AWST / 7.40pm AEDT. For more information, head to Origin.AFL