AFL Preferred Facility Guidelines (2024)
Introduction
Welcome to the AFL Preferred Community Facility Guidelines. These guidelines are a comprehensive resource designed to assist leagues, clubs, schools, and councils in the development and enhancement of community football facilities. By offering a clear framework and practical advice, the guidelines ensure that community football venues are equipped to support the growth and inclusivity of the sport, promoting participation at all levels.
Background
The AFL Preferred Community Facility Guidelines were first introduced in 2012 to provide a standardized approach to developing and refurbishing football facilities across Australia. Recognizing the evolving needs of the football community, the guidelines were updated in 2019 to incorporate the latest trends and innovations. The 2024 edition builds on this foundation, emphasizing the critical areas of access, equity, sustainability, and the need for facilities that cater to the diverse football community, including players, spectators, and officials.
Key Focus Areas
The 2024 Guidelines emphasize several key areas essential to the development of community football facilities:
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Ensuring that all facilities are inclusive, catering to the needs of diverse groups, including women, juniors, and people with disabilities.
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Promoting environmentally sustainable design principles in all facility projects, from energy-efficient lighting to water-saving measures.
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Providing detailed guidance on the stages of project planning, from initial concept to execution, ensuring that facilities are well-planned and fit for purpose.
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Highlighting the importance of creating dedicated spaces and amenities for the umpiring community, recognizing their critical role in the game.
Measurables and Key Statistics
Participation Growth:
20% Increase in Participation: In regions where community football facilities have been upgraded, there has been a documented 20% increase in player participation over the first two years.
Targeting 1 Million Participants: The AFL is aiming to reach 1 million community football participants nationwide by 2025, supported by enhanced facility development.
Facility Usage:
50 Hours per Week: On average, community football facilities are utilized for up to 50 hours per week, reflecting the high demand for well-maintained and accessible sports venues.
30% Increase in Game Scheduling: Upgraded facilities have enabled a 30% increase in the number of games and training sessions scheduled per week, enhancing community engagement.
Sustainability Initiatives:
40% Energy Savings: By implementing energy-efficient LED lighting across all new facilities, clubs can achieve up to 40% savings in energy consumption, translating to thousands of dollars saved annually.
60,000 Liters of Water Saved Annually: The introduction of rainwater harvesting systems in new football facilities can lead to an annual saving of approximately 60,000 liters of water per facility.
Economic Boost:
$2 Million Local Economic Boost: The construction and refurbishment of community football facilities can inject over $2 million into the local economy, including job creation and increased spending from visiting teams and spectators.
$4 Return for Every $1 Invested: Studies show that for every $1 invested in community football facilities, there is a $4 return in long-term economic and social benefits, including improved community health and increased local business revenue.
Inclusivity and Accessibility:
95% of New Facilities with Inclusive Amenities: As of 2024, 95% of newly developed or refurbished facilities include gender-specific change rooms, catering to the growing number of female participants in community football.
100% Compliance with Accessibility Standards: All new community football facilities are required to meet accessibility standards, ensuring that they are fully usable by people with disabilities.
Project Success Metrics:
90% of Projects Delivered On-Time: The guidelines have contributed to a 90% on-time completion rate for community football facility projects, reflecting effective planning and execution.
85% User Satisfaction Rate: Post-completion surveys indicate that 85% of users (including players, coaches, and spectators) are satisfied with the quality and functionality of new or upgraded football facilities
Tools and Resources
Concept Development:
Initial Needs Assessment: Identify the specific needs of the community and the football club, considering current and future demand.
Feasibility Studies: Conduct feasibility studies to explore different options, assess the viability of the project, and estimate potential costs and benefits.
Design and Planning:
Site Analysis: Evaluate the chosen site, considering factors like accessibility, environmental impact, and existing infrastructure.
Design Development: Work with architects and engineers to develop a detailed design that meets the AFL’s specifications, including considerations for inclusivity, sustainability, and future expansion.
Stakeholder Engagement: Involve key stakeholders, including local councils, clubs, and the community, to gather input and ensure that the design meets their needs and expectations.
Handover and Commissioning:
Final Inspections: Conduct thorough inspections to ensure that the facility meets all specifications and standards outlined in the design phase. Using Sports Facility Auditor.
Handover: Transfer the completed facility to the club or governing body, ensuring all operational and maintenance procedures are in place.
Facility Management: Establish a management plan for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the facility, ensuring it remains in good condition and continues to meet the needs of the community.
Construction:
Tendering and Contracting: Engage qualified contractors through a competitive tendering process to ensure quality construction at a reasonable cost.
Project Management: Implement effective project management practices to oversee construction, manage timelines, and address any issues that arise during the build.
Deliverables
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Standardized templates for facility design, ensuring consistency across different venues.
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Detailed technical requirements for various facility components, including lighting, playing surfaces, and change rooms.
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Examples of successful facility developments that demonstrate best practices in action.
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Comprehensive checklists to guide project planning, ensuring all critical aspects are considered.
KEY STAKEHOLDERS
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Specialist sports engineering firm providing technical expertise on facility design and construction.
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Architecture and planning firm contributing to the design and spatial planning elements.
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Strategic advisory firm offering insights on project planning and implementation.