Rob Kerin steps down with SANFL in solid financial position

10 March 2026

A strong financial result has enabled SANFL to continue to invest in the development of the game, provide increased funding to SANFL Clubs and make a significant contribution to the High Performance Centre at West Lakes.

Strong stadium returns from Adelaide Oval, growth of the Footy Park Precinct and disciplined cost controls have resulted in SANFL’s cash earnings rising to $2,264,257 in 2025 – an increase of $545,449 on the 2024 result.

Funding to SANFL Clubs also grew substantially with football development grants rising by nearly $800,000, enabling $4,420,000 to be distributed across the eight State League Clubs.

The financial results were announced at tonight’s SANFL AGM by outgoing SA Football Commission Chair The Hon. Rob Kerin. After serving two terms as Chair, Kerin steps down from the Commission with SANFL in a solid financial position.

“SANFL continues to demonstrate sound financial management, maintaining a disciplined and cost-effective operating structure while strategically increasing investment across State League clubs, talent pathways and game development initiatives in alignment with our long-term objectives,” said Kerin.

“The strong cash earnings result for this period enabled SANFL to finalise its $5 million investment in the High Performance Centre which is the best talent facility in the nation and a long-term asset for football development in South Australia.

“It also enables ongoing investment in talent and participation, supporting the continued growth of the game in South Australia. This was reflected in a record-breaking 70,618 participants taking part in footy programs this year, and we have ambitious targets to grow this further.”

In 2025, AFL crowds averaged 40,900 per game at Adelaide Oval, compared to 39,430 in 2024, with major events and non-event day activities performing well, offsetting the increasing costs of running a world-class stadium.

The AFL also provided $6 million worth of funding to help drive the growth of the game in South Australia. This funding supported participation, coaching, umpiring, inclusive programs, facility and talent development.

“SANFL’s vision is to be the game loved by all South Australians and I’m so proud of the work that’s being done to ensure we are leading the way in terms of talent development, and that our competition remains the premier State League in the nation,” said Kerin.

“Looking ahead, growth is anticipated across SANFL’s commercial operations including X-Golf and the Mosaic Hotel, and as we approach our 150-year celebration in 2027, I’m confident we have set ourselves and our clubs up for a really strong decade of footy.”