AFL All-Australian Selection Panel Updates
Eight premiership players join the All-Australian selection panel, bringing new experience and credibility.
The AFL has confirmed the appointment of Luke Hodge, Joel Selwood, and David Mundy as new All-Australian selectors. This trio, who collectively hold eight premierships, replaces Nathan Buckley, Matthew Pavlich, and Josh Mahoney.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon commended the new selectors for their experience, leadership, and credibility.
The complete 2026 All-Australian selection panel consists of:
- Andrew Dillon (Chair)
- Eddie Betts
- Jude Bolton
- Kane Cornes
- Luke Hodge
- Abbey Holmes
- Glen Jakovich
- Laura Kane
- David Mundy
- Joel Selwood
- Greg Swann
Daicos' Management Open to Tasmania Talks
Nick Daicos' management indicates it would be 'negligent' not to explore discussions with Tasmania, who plan a $5 million sign-on bonus for new recruits.
Nick Daicos, currently contracted with Collingwood until 2029, has seen his management express openness to engaging in talks with Tasmania, the AFL's future 19th club. The Tasmania Devils are scheduled to enter the league in 2028.
Paul Connors of CDG Sports Management, who represents Daicos, stated it would be "negligent" for the company not to consider discussions with Tasmania regarding the player. Tasmania plans to offer a $5 million sign-on bonus, external to the salary cap, during its initial two years to attract players.
North Melbourne President Resists Board Change Calls
North Melbourne president Sonja Hood dismisses calls for immediate board changes, prioritizing stability despite member frustrations and the club's prolonged on-field struggles.
North Melbourne president Sonja Hood has responded to calls from club members for changes to the board, but indicated no plans to implement such demands.
Hood acknowledged the frustrations regarding the club's performance. She maintained that the current board provides stability and experience, having been a board member since 2019 and president since 2022.
Hood stated that while on-field improvement is necessary for the upcoming season, board changes would not address the club's primary challenge of instability. The Kangaroos have had a challenging period, winning only 20 of their last 130 games and finishing in the bottom three for five consecutive seasons.