Perth Football League builds momentum with growth, innovation and commercial opportunity

The Perth Football League (PFL) continues to strengthen its position as Australia’s largest community football competition, with the 2026 season reflecting sustained growth, increased innovation and a compelling opportunity for businesses to connect with local communities at scale.

This year, the competition has expanded to 334 teams, up from 329 in 2025, with growth driven across multiple areas of the game. Men’s football has increased to 184 teams, while women’s participation continues to surge, reaching 70 teams and reinforcing the League’s commitment to inclusive and accessible pathways.

One of the most notable developments is the return of D Grade football, with six clubs now participating across League, Reserves and Colts. This reintroduction is a direct result of ongoing consultation with clubs and reflects the success of recent Colts growth, creating a stronger and more sustainable player pathway across the competition.

With 36 grades now operating across the League, the scale of the PFL presents a unique footprint across metropolitan Perth. More than 150 matches are played each weekend, drawing players, volunteers and supporters into local venues and creating consistent, high-frequency engagement opportunities for partners.

That reach is extending well beyond the boundary line. Across the 2025 season, the PFL delivered more than 30 million combined views across digital and traditional media platforms, highlighting the growing appetite for community football content and the value it presents for aligned partners.

Beyond participation, the League is investing in innovation and technology to enhance both the football experience and its commercial offering.

The launch of a new PFL app, alongside a new website in development, marks a significant step forward in how the League connects with its audience. For the first time, player statistics will be accessible through the app, opening new opportunities for content, storytelling and partner integration. This aligns with the League’s broader commitment to using technology to deepen engagement and deliver value to stakeholders.

Technology is also playing a key role in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the competition. Following the rollout of HUDL AI cameras across clubs last season, the match review process has been streamlined, while also supporting coaching, player development and content creation. These advancements are helping elevate the standard of community football and providing more assets for digital and broadcast use.

Media and broadcast continue to expand the League’s reach. A dedicated Match of the Round on SEN provides a consistent platform to showcase the competition, supported by a growing digital presence that delivers strong audience engagement across social and streaming platforms.

For partners, this creates a multi-channel environment where community connection is combined with meaningful reach. The PFL’s approach allows businesses to integrate at both a League and club level, aligning with local audiences while benefiting from broader exposure across the competition.

Importantly, the League maintains a strong focus on responsible and values-aligned partnerships. With a clear stance on integrity, wellbeing and community impact, the PFL provides a platform for organisations looking to engage authentically with grassroots sport.

Off the field, there is a continued emphasis on education and wellbeing. The PFL has increased its focus on supporting club umpires through targeted education sessions, alongside initiatives designed to improve behaviour and game-day experience across the competition.

Through its partnership network, clubs are also accessing Tackle Your Feelings sessions, providing practical mental health education and resources. These initiatives reflect the League’s broader purpose of building stronger communities through football, with wellbeing and inclusion remaining central priorities.

On-field, the 2026 season also introduces updated AFL Laws of the Game, ensuring alignment with the broader football ecosystem and maintaining a contemporary, well-governed competition.

What underpins all of this progress is a clear strategic direction. The PFL’s focus remains on empowering clubs, supporting volunteers and delivering a high-quality competition that is both sustainable and inclusive.

As the 2026 season unfolds, the Perth Football League is not only growing in size, but evolving in how it delivers football and commercial value. With continued investment in technology, strong partnerships and a commitment to community impact, the League is well positioned to connect businesses with one of Western Australia’s most engaged and far-reaching sporting communities.