AFL partners with JOY 94.9 for outside broadcast

The AFL has announced it will partner with LGBTI radio station JOY 94.9 to present a special broadcast outside the MCG before the Collingwood vs. Essendon match on Sunday, August 4.

After the AFL approached JOY 94.9 last year to arrange an initial outside broadcast, this second collaboration will feature players, umpires and representatives from clubs and the AFL Players Association discussing the AFL’s initiatives to address homophobia in the game and encourage more diverse participation.

AFL Chief Executive Andrew Demetriou hoped the broadcast would highlight diversity programs the League already has in place, including its multicultural and Indigenous programs, and its extension of anti-vilification policies for on-field conduct to include sexual orientation.

“From the elite level to community competitions, we want to ensure all those involved in Australian football feel safe and included,” Demetriou said.

“We also recognise the influence the AFL can wield in shifting community attitudes and raising awareness of important social issues. The AFL supports diversity and respectful relationships at all levels of the sport and through our policies and actions we do not tolerate discrimination of any kind.”

The JOY 94.9 broadcast with the AFL will be located between Gates 1 and 2 outside the MCG from 2pm until 4pm.