Business Details
Your Home for Amateur Football in Victoria
Established in 1892, the Victorian Amateur Football Association (VAFA) has been the cornerstone of amateur football in Australia for over a century. Our organisation is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of community football through structured competitions, player development programs, and unwavering support for clubs and participants. With a comprehensive structure encompassing 35 sections across senior men's and women's divisions, under-19s, thirds, and masters competitions, we provide pathways for players of all ages and abilities. Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through our annual coaching accreditation programs, insurance services, and digital innovations like the official VAFA app. As custodians of the iconic Big V jumper since 1925, we continue to uphold the traditions of representative football while embracing modern advancements.Our dedicated team works year-round to ensure clubs receive comprehensive administrative support, from player registrations to tribunal services. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement initiatives, we maintain our position as Australia's largest community football competition. Our governance framework, including annual reports and strategic planning, ensures transparency and long-term sustainability. With a proud history of recognising sporting excellence through life memberships and executive awards, we remain focused on nurturing the next generation of football talent. Our state-of-the-art facilities at Elsternwick Park and digital platforms provide modern solutions for clubs, players, and fans to connect and engage with the game they love.
Services
Football Competitions
Club Administration
Umpire Training
Player Development
Digital Services
Highlights and features
- We offer over 130 years of experience in community football development.
- Our comprehensive structure includes 35 divisions catering to all age groups.
- We provide dedicated club support services and digital innovation.
- Our Big V representative program dates back to 1925.
- We maintain strong community connections through local club networks.
What people say
Well-structured leagues
Excellent community support
Professional administration
Engaging digital platforms
Proud traditions
Services
Football Competitions
We operate 35 football divisions across Victoria, including senior men's and women's competitions, under-19s, thirds, and masters. Our structured competitions feature promotion and relegation systems to maintain competitive balance. With over 300 teams participating annually, our leagues culminate in exciting finals series at Elsternwick Park.
Club Administration
Our dedicated team provides comprehensive administrative support to 70 member clubs. Services include player registration systems, insurance programs, tribunal services, and digital tools through the VAFA Portal. We offer coaching accreditation and development programs to enhance club capabilities across all competition levels.
Umpire Training
We develop and train umpires for all VAFA competitions through structured accreditation programs. Our umpiring pathway supports officials from grassroots to representative levels. The program includes ongoing education, match evaluation, and development opportunities for aspiring match officials.
Digital Services
Our digital initiatives include live score systems, video streaming of grand finals, and the official VAFA app. These platforms provide real-time updates, historical records, and interactive tools for players, clubs, and fans. The digital ecosystem enhances engagement through podcasts and social media integration.
Community Events
We organise major annual events including the VAFA Awards Night, Big V representative matches, and club golf classics. These events celebrate community achievements, foster connections between clubs, and promote the history of amateur football in Victoria through special centenary celebrations.
People
Karen Bennett
Finance & Administration
With extensive experience in financial management, Karen oversees all financial operations and administrative functions for the VAFA, ensuring organisational stability and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Dale Christie
Football Operations
Dale manages football operations and umpiring programs, bringing deep knowledge of the game to ensure high standards across all competitions and development initiatives.
Glen Towers
Commercial Manager
Glen leads commercial partnerships and sponsorship programs, leveraging his industry expertise to secure major partnerships that support the VAFA's growth and development.
Cameron Voss
Media & Digital
Cameron oversees media relations and digital strategy, managing content creation, broadcasting partnerships, and the VAFA's online presence to enhance fan engagement.
Darren Flanigan
Clubs & Community
Darren serves as the primary liaison for member clubs, providing strategic guidance and support to strengthen community connections and club operations across all VAFA divisions.
Questions
How do I find a local VAFA club?
Use our online club finder tool to locate VAFA clubs in your area with contact details and membership information.
What competitions does VAFA offer?
We provide 35 divisions across senior men's and women's football, under-19s, thirds, and masters competitions.
How can I become an umpire?
Our umpire training program offers accreditation and development pathways for aspiring match officials at all levels.
When is the football season?
The home and away season runs from April to August with finals series in September for top-ranked teams.
How do I access live scores?
Live scores and match updates are available through the official VAFA app and website during all games.
What is the Big V program?
The Big V represents Victoria in interstate amateur football matches, with a proud history dating back to 1925.
Videos
Reviews (2)
Barney Rubble
Nov 26, 2019
Report
Has its moments. Doesn't owe me much. Nothing of anything. Entertaining for finals every few years. Don't mind remembering the real people.
Ian Wright
Jun 09, 2018
Report
At least they have fixed the playing surface up. Given OMs play there now it isn't the Elsternwick Park of old when the VAFA match of the day was held there weekly.
