The AFL and Fanatics have announced the return of the Junior and Youth Girls (JYG) Uniform Grants Program, with $250,000 in funding available to help community football clubs provide uniforms designed specifically for girls.

Now in its third year, the program will continue to support community leagues, clubs and umpire associations across the country to create more welcoming and inclusive environments for junior and youth girls.

Junior and youth girls' participation in Aussie Rules has grown by 10 per cent since the grants program was introduced in 2024, with more than 130 community clubs cross Australia receiving funding the purchase uniforms for junior and youth girls.

The funding will support eligible applicants to replace white shorts with suitable alternatives, as well as purchase playing and umpiring uniforms designed specifically for junior and youth girls, including female-cut shorts, guernseys and sports bras.

The program builds on the AFL and Fanatics' ongoing commitment to women and girls in community football, with the JYG Uniform Grants Program first announced in 2023 as part of a 10-year partnership.

AFL Executive General Manager of Game Development Rob Auld said:

"Every year we're seeing more women and girls choosing to play footy, and we want to make sure our community clubs have the support they need to create environments where women and girls feel like they belong," Auld said.

"Since the programs introduction in 2024, women and girls' participation has seen double digit growth which showcases the impact appropriate uniforms can make to help girls feel comfortable and confident to take the field.

"We're incredibly proud that more than 130 clubs have already benefited from the program and thank Fanatics for continuing to help us remove barriers and make community footy more welcoming for girls across the country."

Fanatics General Manager ANZ Sarah Flynn said:

"Every girl who pulls on a footy jumper should feel comfortable, confident and proud of what she's wearing.

"Over the last two years more than 130 clubs have used this funding to make that happen, and with more girls taking up the game every season, we're delighted to be backing the program again."

Applications for the 2026 Junior and Youth Girls Uniform Grants Program are now open.

Community leagues, clubs and umpire associations can learn more and apply here.