THE AFL's first night Grand Final will start at 6.30pm AEST (7.30pm AEDT).

The historic game at the Gabba is to be held on Saturday, October 24 and, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will be the first time the Toyota AFL Grand Final is both held at night and outside of Victoria.

AFL executive general manager clubs and broadcasting Travis Auld said the 6.30pm bounce provided the industry with the greatest scope to maximise the advantages of the night timeslot.

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"When making the decision we had to factor in daylight savings times in parts of the country, along with ensuring we and our broadcast partner, the Seven Network, had sufficient time leading into the opening bounce," Auld said.

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 02: Gillon McLachlan, Chief Executive Officer of the AFL poses for a photograph after announcing the 2020 AFL Grand Final will be played at the Gabba on October 24 during an AFL Press conference on September 02, 2020 on the Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos)

"We were also cognisant of finishing the match at a suitable time for younger footy fans. The shortened game times this season should see the final siren blown and the 2020 premier officially crowned just before 10pm AEDT.

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"Historically a really special part of Grand Final day is the build-up and anticipation, and we want to ensure we can share the electricity and atmosphere of the night with as many people as possible around the country.

"A night grand final is sure to be a fantastic spectacle for both the fans in stadium and the millions watching around the country and overseas."

LOCAL START TIMES BY STATE

AWST: 4.30pm – WA
ACST: 6pm – NT
AEST (local): 6.30pm – QLD
ACDT: 7pm - SA 
AEDT: 7.30pm - VIC, NSW, TAS, ACT

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