The upcoming AFLW Indigenous Round, featuring a significant match between Richmond and Essendon in Darwin, emphasizes the essential role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation in the league. Former Fremantle and Carlton forward Kirby Bentley has been named the 2025 AFLW Indigenous Round honouree, underscoring the importance of increasing Indigenous participation across all levels of the game.
Currently, there are 22 Indigenous players in the AFLW, accounting for just four percent of the total 540 players. Bentley highlighted that having more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals in coaching, administration, and umpiring roles is critical to fostering a more inclusive environment. She stated, “The contribution from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is crucial in our game for growth. That’s not only as players, but coaching staff, management, umpires from all layers and levels.”
Bentley, who is also a coach and advocate for youth and mental health, emphasized the need for tailored support for Indigenous players. Different communities have unique backgrounds and priorities, and understanding these differences is vital. “I’m a Noongar woman, and I’m different from somebody who lives on Wurundjeri country,” she said. “We have different priorities and responsibilities.”
The evolution of the AFLW, with its increasing professionalism and talent levels, has thrilled Bentley. She asserted that clubs must enhance their support for Indigenous players, noting that investment in strong coaching and personnel is essential. “From an AFL investment, I think we can really put some really strong coaches and personnel in those clubs to help support those players as well. And it’s two-way learning, right? It’s not just about us. It’s about all of us.”
The Indigenous Round aims to showcase the talents of Indigenous players and inspire young girls in those communities. Mia King, a Jawoyn woman playing for North Melbourne, and Kaitlyn Ashmore, a Dja Dja Wurrung woman from Hawthorn, highlighted the significance of hosting games in locations like Darwin and Cairns.
St Kilda’s Natalie Plane, a proud Kamilaroi woman, views the Indigenous Round as both a celebration and an educational opportunity. She expressed the special feeling of representing her culture on such a prominent platform. “As a First Nations player, it’s almost like a bit of magic,” said Plane. “You feel a bit special when you get to go out there, and it’s like this is why I love it, this is why I do it.”
The Indigenous Round will kick off on Friday night, setting the stage for a two-week celebration of Indigenous culture and talent within the AFLW, aiming to inspire further participation and representation in the sport.
