McLachlan again backs AFL vaccinations

AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan has thrown his weight behind vaccinations again, saying it is the league’s way out from COVID-19 disruptions.

A decision is expected soon from the AFL on mandatory vaccinations for players and club staff.

McLachlan said earlier this month it’s a complicated issue, with some resistance from the players’ association.

But he made his own thoughts clear again on Tuesday before returning to Melbourne.

“If we want to get our lives back and get back to doing things the simple way, and opening up, we need to be vaccinated,” he told journalists at Perth airport.

“We see it as our path out and our policy will reflect that.”

The last two AFL seasons have survived major disruptions and challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Saturday night’s grand final was played at Optus Stadium in Perth and the Gabba in Brisbane hosted the premiership decider last year.

In his speech at last week’s Brownlow Medal count, McLachlan called on everyone associated with the game to be vaccinated.

“For those who play our game or follow our game at every level right across our football community, please go and get vaccinated,” he said.

“So we can once more unite as families, as friends, as work colleagues, as footy fans, as neighbours, as communities – as one.”

The comments were met with warm applause at the function.