Betting on AFL: the markets, the rules and the season calendar

The markets in plain terms

Three market types are named in our page brief.

• Match winner: pick the team that wins the game.
• Line: a points start or deficit is applied to the teams before the result is settled.
• Futures: bets on outcomes decided later, such as a premiership.

Which operators list each one is stated on their pages. We have not read them yet, so the table below is empty.

Where this stands: three market types are named, and operator listings are unread.

A line bet, worked through

Suppose a team is given a line of -12.5 at decimal odds of 1.90, and you stake A$20. It wins the bet only if it wins the game by 13 points or more.

On a win the return is A$38.00 (A$20.00 stake and A$18.00 profit). If it wins by 12 or fewer, or loses, the return is nil.

Illustrative arithmetic, not a price. More on odds: Decimal odds explained: from price to payout in three steps and Implied probability, defined with a worked example.

Where this stands: a line bet needs a win by more than the line; the figures are invented for the sum.

The in-play rule

Our country brief records that online in-play bets on sport are banned. The Interactive Gambling Act provides an exception for purely voice-based phone bets.

Operators design pre-match products around that rule. An app that shows a live score is not offering a live online bet.

The rule is set out on Why online in-play sports betting is banned, and what is still allowed. We do not promote in-play betting.

Where this stands: pre-match online; in-play online is banned; the voice-phone exception exists.

Where operators list AFL markets

Licences are to be confirmed in the ACMA register on publication day.

Where this stands: six names, no cells filled.

Season and finals dates

2027 dates for the season, finals and the Grand Final are not confirmed in our country brief. We take them only from the league's page, afl.com.au, and write the date we read them.

Until then no date appears here. The calendar tool will list events as organisers publish them: Events by organiser dates, shown in the time zone you choose.

Where this stands: 2027 dates are open until the league page is read.

18+ only. Gamble responsibly.

Sport can feel social, but a bet is still a risk. Keep to the limit you set.

18+ only. Gambling can be harmful. Need help? Call Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (free, 24/7) or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. To exclude yourself from licensed Australian online and phone wagering providers, register with BetStop at betstop.gov.au.

More on the tools: How BetStop works and who has to take part and Gambling can be harmful: where to get help in Australia. We are not a bookmaker and do not take bets.