NAB AFL Auskick has officially launched its 2026 season, with NAB celebrating 20 years as naming rights partner of Australia’s largest and most recognised junior participation program.
18 February 2026 | 2 min read
19 February 2026
NAB AFL Auskick launches 2026 season as NAB marks 20-year partnership
NAB AFL Auskick has officially launched its 2026 season, with NAB celebrating 20 years as naming rights partner of Australia’s largest and most recognised junior participation program.
The launch marks two decades of NAB’s support for grassroots football, during which more than 2.1 million children have taken part in Auskick programs across more than 3,500 centres nationwide.
More than 141,000 children registered for NAB AFL Auskick in 2025, with the AFL aiming to grow participation to 150,000 and beyond in 2026 as part of its broader ambition to have footy in every home.
Building participation and inclusion
AFL Chief Operating Officer Tom Harley, Jack Ginnivan of the Hawks, Nick Watson of the Hawks, Jasmyn Smith of the Bulldogs, Ash Centra of the Magpies and NAB Executive Operations, Planning and Partnerships Thomas Dobson during the 2026 NAB AFL Auskick Launch at Balloon Story, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos)
NAB AFL Auskick continues to play a key role in introducing children aged 5 to 12 to Australian Football in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment.
In recent years, the program has expanded its focus on accessibility, with dedicated all-girls sessions and all-abilities centres now available across the country. Girls currently make up a quarter of all participants, while children with a parent born overseas account for 25 per cent of total participation.
AFL Chief Operating Officer Tom Harley said NAB AFL Auskick is a terrific way for children and their families to connect with Australia’s Game as the AFL strives to have footy in every home.
“We’re incredibly proud that NAB AFL Auskick remains Australia’s leading participation program, giving kids and families across the country a fun and welcoming way to connect with our game,” Mr Harley said.
“As we head into another season, we thank NAB for their incredible support over the past 20 years and ongoing commitment to the program, along with the parents and volunteers who help bring Auskick to life each week and inspire the next generation of footy fans.”
NAB’s long-term commitment
NAB Chief Marketing Officer Natalie Lockwood said the milestone reflects NAB’s long-standing commitment to supporting Australians at every stage of life.
“NAB AFL Auskick is where footy begins, where first kicks are taken, friendships are formed and kids discover the joy of being part of a team,” Ms Lockwood said.
“At NAB, we believe in being a partner for every stage of life, and Auskick represents one of the earliest and most important stages for families as they begin their journey with footy and community sport.”
Jack Ginnivan of the Hawks and Nick Watson of the Hawks during the 2026 NAB AFL Auskick Launch at Balloon Story, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. (Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos)
“For 20 years, NAB has proudly partnered with the AFL and local communities to stand alongside the parents, volunteers and coordinators who create a place where every child can turn up, feel included and have a go.”
Experiences on and off the field
Registered Auskickers receive a participant pack in their chosen club colours, an Auskick junior club membership and opportunities to take part in half-time games during AFL and AFLW matches.
Through NAB’s partnership with the AFL, Auskickers can also be selected to present premiership medals to players on Grand Final day.
Looking ahead
The AFL has set a target of reaching one million participants by 2033, with NAB AFL Auskick continuing to form the foundation of junior participation nationwide.
Registrations for the 2026 NAB AFL Auskick season are now open. For more information or to register, visit play.afl/auskick, opens in new window.
