For generations, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander footballers have helped shape Australian rules football. Their talent, achievements and contributions to the game are celebrated across the country.
But behind those achievements are allegations of racism, discrimination and abuse that some players say have had lasting consequences for them and their families.
Now, a class action before the Supreme Court of Victoria is seeking to hold the Australian Football League (AFL) accountable for alleged failures to protect players from racial abuse.
Led by former footballers Phil Krakouer and Nicky Winmar, the case is being brought by Margalit Injury Lawyers on behalf of affected players and other eligible group members.
With the Court-approved registration and opt-out deadline approaching on 2 November 2026, the legal team is encouraging those who believe they may be eligible to understand their rights before time runs out.
A history that extends beyond the football field
The class action alleges that the AFL failed to adequately prevent or respond to racial abuse and discrimination involving players, including by failing to institute and enforce rules and policies to protect them.
The allegations concern more than isolated incidents on the football field. They raise broader questions about the responsibilities of sporting institutions towards the people whose careers, livelihoods and wellbeing depend on them.
"It is so important that people are involved in this class action.
It is an incredible opportunity to make some change."
- Phil Krakouer
For some former players, the effects of alleged racist treatment have extended well beyond their playing careers, with consequences also affecting their families.
The proceedings seek compensation for harm allegedly suffered, while also pursuing acknowledgement, accountability and meaningful change within Australian football.
Seeking accountability
Margalit Injury Lawyers, the firm representing the plaintiffs and group members, says the proceedings are an opportunity for affected people to have their experiences considered through the legal system.
The class action seeks to address alleged harm suffered by players and eligible family members, while contributing to a broader conversation about racial discrimination and institutional responsibility in Australian sport.
Michel Margalit, Managing Principal at Margalit Lawyers said: "The AFL is one of the most significant cultural institutions in Australia. For a player to be racially vilified while simply doing their job, and as an employee, to have no option of walking away, is unacceptable in any other workplace and is deeply wrong. Our clients have carried that harm quietly for years and still carry it today."
Importantly, potential group members do not need to become public figures to seek advice about participating.
Margalit Injury Lawyers advises that group members' identities can remain confidential, with the named plaintiffs representing the wider group in the proceedings.
An important deadline for former players and families
The Supreme Court of Victoria has approved a notice setting out important information about the class action, including the options available to potential group members.
Those who believe they may be eligible have until 4 pm AEDT on Monday, 2 November 2026 to register or opt out.
The Court's notice explains that doing nothing may have significant consequences for a person's legal rights, including their ability to participate in a settlement of the class action.
Eligibility is not necessarily limited to former players themselves. Certain family members, people in close relationships with affected players and other persons covered by the group definition may also have rights under the proceedings.
In urging eligible group members to understand their rights before the deadline, Thomas McCredie, Principal Solicitor at Margalit Lawyers said: "It is critical that potential group members make an informed decision about what they want to do. I encourage anymore who is unsure of their legal rights to get in contact so that our team can provide them with advice so that they can make the best decision in their interests."
How to find out more
Anyone who believes they may be an eligible group member, or who is uncertain about their rights, can contact Margalit Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential and no-obligation discussion.
The firm can provide information about the proceedings, explain the registration process and help potential group members understand their options.
The deadline for registration and opting out is 4 pm AEDT, 2 November 2026.
To find out more:
Visit: https://margalitlawyers.com.au/racism-in-the-afl/
Call: (03) 9133 0288
Email: [email protected]
The Court-approved notice and further information are also available on the Supreme Court of Victoria's website.
The allegations in the class action remain the subject of legal proceedings. Readers should consult the Court-approved notice for the full definition of group members and the consequences of registering, opting out or taking no action.
Sponsored content prepared in collaboration with Margalit Injury Lawyers.
