Most of the money invested in VFL comes from AFL clubs, not directly from the AFL. Independent VFL clubs need members to sign up and rely mostly on volunteers. The same thing happens in Queensland, the 4 AFL clubs in the NEAFL are funded by them and the rest are run by members and volunteers of these clubs.I know costs would be a bit more, but the AFL are already investing $25million in the Suns each year, surely they can find some money to invest into a state league. Get players payments up to the same level as the VFL, SANFL and WAFL. It’ll give the game much more exposure at the next level and path ways for players to develop.
Brisbane have identified that they need to play attractive football to get crowds back, plus start winning, the AFL is also investing in grassroots and women's football. The more people who play the game at a younger age and will create generational change. Queensland is coming from a long way back.
Brisbane is also looking do double the number of kids in it's academy, leading to a bigger talent pool. If they don't make it these kids will go back to clubs and play club football. For example ex Lions player Rhan Hooper plays for Springwood Pumas and there are many others and will be more in the future.
It's a slow burn and needs to be sustainable. The TV rights more than cover this expenditure.