The AFL season is upon us, and whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, you’ll want to make sure you never miss a game. With the rise of streaming services, cable channels, and digital platforms, finding the best way to watch your favorite teams can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve created the ultimate AFL broadcast guide to help you navigate your viewing options in Australia. Whether you’re at home, on the go, or simply looking for the most affordable option, we’ve got you covered.
How to Watch AFL: An Overview of Broadcast Options in AU
The AFL has become one of Australia’s most-watched sports, and the broadcasting landscape reflects that popularity. Understanding how and where to watch games is key to making sure you can enjoy every moment of the action. In this section, we’ll break down the most common broadcasting platforms available in Australia for AFL fans.
Free-to-Air Television
If you’re looking for a no-cost way to watch AFL games, free-to-air television is your best bet. Most of the major channels broadcast live AFL matches, especially during the regular season and finals.
Key Channels:
- Seven Network: Seven is the go-to for the majority of AFL games, including Thursday night and Friday night matches. They cover the biggest games of the season, making them a popular choice for casual and devoted fans alike.
- 10 Network: Channel 10 also offers a selection of live AFL coverage, particularly during finals season. Their coverage is often available for both live and delayed broadcasts, depending on the timing.
For anyone who prefers watching AFL in the comfort of their home, free-to-air is a great starting point.
Subscription TV: Fox Footy
If you’re a die-hard AFL fan, you’ll want to consider a subscription to Fox Footy. Fox Sports has exclusive rights to some of the AFL’s biggest games, especially those outside of prime-time hours. A Fox Footy subscription gives you access to all games, from regular-season clashes to finals, as well as in-depth commentary and analysis.
Benefits of Fox Footy:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Fox Footy covers almost all AFL games, giving you complete access to the full season. You won’t miss a moment, including games that aren’t available on free-to-air TV.
- Exclusive Content: If you want expert commentary, behind-the-scenes footage, and in-depth discussions, Fox Footy is the platform for you.
- Streaming Options: With a subscription to Kayo Sports, you can stream Fox Footy content online, allowing you to watch games anywhere, anytime.
Digital Streaming: Kayo Sports
For AFL fans who prefer a streaming solution, Kayo Sports offers a flexible and user-friendly platform to watch the AFL season in full. Kayo offers both live streaming and on-demand options, meaning you can catch games you missed and follow your favorite teams throughout the year.
Why Choose Kayo Sports for AFL:
- No Cable Required: Kayo allows you to stream AFL without the need for a traditional cable package, making it perfect for those who prefer to cut the cord.
- Multiple Viewing Options: With features like SplitView, Kayo lets you watch multiple games at once, making it an excellent choice for those who want to follow more than one match on a weekend.
- Affordable Packages: Kayo’s subscription packages come at competitive prices, ensuring that you get great value for the games you want to watch.
If you’re tech-savvy and prefer the flexibility of streaming, Kayo Sports could be your ideal platform for AFL viewing.
AFL Live Official App
For fans on the go, the AFL Live Official App is a must-have. The app offers a variety of features that make it easy to follow AFL, whether you’re commuting, at work, or simply away from home.
App Features:
- Live Streaming: The AFL Live app gives you access to live broadcasts of AFL games, including those that may not be available on other platforms.
- Match Replays: If you miss a game, the app allows you to catch up with full match replays, highlights, and extended videos.
- Live Scores and Stats: For those who just want to keep track of the action, the app provides live scores, player stats, and other game insights.
Whether you’re at home or on the move, the AFL Live Official App is a convenient way to stay connected with your favorite sport.
How to Choose the Best AFL Broadcast Option for You
With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right platform for watching AFL. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide based on your needs:
Budget-Friendly Viewers: Free-to-Air TV
If you’re looking for a free option, free-to-air channels are a solid choice. They cover a significant number of games throughout the season, including major matchups. However, you may miss some of the smaller, out-of-prime-time games or additional content that dedicated sports networks provide.
The True Fan: Fox Footy
For fans who want full access to every game, Fox Footy is the gold standard. You won’t miss any of the action, and you’ll enjoy expert commentary and analysis. The only downside is that it requires a subscription.
Streamers: Kayo Sports
If you’re a fan of streaming and want a flexible, affordable way to watch AFL, Kayo Sports is a top option. You can stream games live, access on-demand content, and enjoy features like SplitView to watch multiple games at once.
On-the-Go Fans: AFL Live Official App
For those who want to stay up-to-date with every game, even when they’re away from home, the AFL Live Official App is a must-have. It gives you access to live streams, match replays, and more.
AFL Broadcast Guide for the Upcoming Season
As the AFL season ramps up, the broadcast landscape may evolve. New deals or technological advancements may bring new options for fans. To make sure you’re always ahead of the game, here are a few tips:
- Check Broadcast Schedules: Before the season starts, take a look at the broadcast schedules of the channels and streaming platforms to plan your viewing.
- Stay Updated on Changes: Sometimes, match schedules or broadcasting rights shift. Keep an eye on the latest news about AFL broadcasts to avoid any surprises.
- Explore Additional Features: Don’t forget about extras like match replays, live stats, and in-depth coverage. These can enrich your viewing experience and keep you informed about the league.
By staying informed and familiar with the AFL broadcast guide, you’ll be able to make the most of the upcoming season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to watch AFL in Australia?
The best way to watch AFL in Australia depends on your preferences. For free-to-air TV, Seven Network and Channel 10 offer some games. If you want comprehensive coverage, Fox Footy is ideal, and for streaming options, Kayo Sports provides a flexible, affordable way to watch live games. The AFL Live Official App is perfect for on-the-go fans.
Can I watch all AFL games on free-to-air TV?
While free-to-air TV covers many AFL games, especially during prime time and finals, it doesn’t include all of them. Free-to-air channels focus on major games, so some regular-season matches may only be available through subscription-based services like Fox Footy.
How can I watch AFL on streaming platforms?
Streaming services like Kayo Sports allow you to watch AFL games live and on-demand. You can stream all games in the AFL season with a Kayo subscription, and the platform offers additional features such as SplitView for watching multiple games at once.
Do I need a subscription to watch AFL online?
You don’t need a subscription to watch AFL on free-to-air TV, but if you want access to every game, including those not broadcast on free channels, a Fox Footy or Kayo Sports subscription is required. The AFL Live Official App also offers live streams, but some content may require a subscription.
Can I watch AFL games on my mobile device?
Yes, you can watch AFL games on mobile devices via the AFL Live Official App or Kayo Sports. The AFL app allows you to stream live games, replays, and highlights, while Kayo Sports gives you access to all AFL content through their mobile app.
What is the AFL Live Official App?
The AFL Live Official App is a free mobile app that allows you to follow AFL games live, watch match replays, and access live scores and player stats. It’s a great option for fans who are always on the move or can’t access a TV.
Are AFL games available to watch internationally?
AFL games can be watched internationally via digital platforms like Kayo Sports or Fox Sports. If you’re outside Australia, services like Watch AFL offer live streaming for international viewers, although availability may depend on your region.
Can I watch AFL games if I don’t have cable TV?
Yes, you can still watch AFL games without a cable subscription by streaming them through services like Kayo Sports or by using the AFL Live Official App. These platforms provide flexible viewing options without requiring cable TV.
What channels broadcast AFL games on free-to-air TV?
In Australia, AFL games are mainly broadcast on the Seven Network and Channel 10. These channels provide coverage of major games, including Thursday and Friday night matches, as well as significant finals events.
Can I watch replays of AFL games if I miss them live?
Yes, replays of AFL games are available on platforms like Kayo Sports and the AFL Live Official App. If you miss a live game, these services allow you to watch the full match or catch up on highlights at your convenience.
Conclusion
With so many ways to watch AFL in Australia, there’s no excuse to miss a game. Whether you prefer traditional TV, streaming services, or mobile apps, there’s an option that suits your needs. This AFL broadcast guide has provided you with everything you need to know to enjoy the season—now it’s time to pick the platform that works best for you and start cheering on your team.
Don’t wait! Get ready for the AFL season today and choose the best way to catch all the action live. The road to the grand final starts here—make sure you’re part of it.
