The week that blew up the Swans and called out AFL culture

Last Monday's disturbing allegations at the Pullman Hotel have tarnished the Sydney Swans' history and exposed a troubling facet of AFL culture. One player is accused of sexual assault without consent, though no charges have been filed and the police investigation remains ongoing. This incident has reignited discussions about the AFL's response to violence against women and the need for a clear "no-fault stand-down" policy, which is already in place in the NRL.

Throughout the past 16 years, several AFL footballers have faced charges ranging from sexual assault to rape and indecent assault, yet none have been convicted. Notably, in 2010, an AFL player had his contract terminated after rape charges were later dropped, while Collingwood superstar Jordan De Goey was charged with indecent assault in 2020.

Despite being charged, De Goey continued playing. In 2021, Victoria Police had to pay legal costs to De Goey after the historical indecent assault charge against him was dropped. When Geelong star Tanner Bruhn was charged with rape and intentional sexual touching, the AFL allowed him to play during the entire 2025 season, granting him a suppression order to keep his name out of public view.

However, those charges were eventually dropped last November when a crucial witness admitted to lying.

The AFL Players Association (AFLPA) has previously opposed a no-fault stand-down policy, arguing that it would be premature and disproportionate to stand a player down without due process. However, in light of recent events, the AFLPA is now more open to discussing such a policy. The NRL has had its no-fault stand-down policy in place for seven years, and it has been credited with shifting the culture within the league.

This policy removes players automatically from playing if they are charged with a serious criminal offence carrying a maximum prison sentence of 11 years or more, without prejudice to their guilt. The NRL's chief executive also has discretionary power to stand down players facing charges involving women or children, regardless of the potential jail term.

In addition to the ongoing investigations, AFL commentator and former player Kate McCarthy criticized the language used by Swans CEO Matthew Pavlich in addressing the situation, stating that it failed to adequately address the issue of misogyny within the industry. Former Geelong footballer Sam Newman also drew ire for his comments on a former AFL player manager's conviction for rape and sexual assault, questioning the evidence presented in the case.

This week, prominent figures from various aspects of Australian football have called for a deep examination of the AFL's culture and the inclusion of women within the sport.