A POINTS system or salary cap is not set to enter AFL Riverina competitions next season.
AFL Victoria made a landmark decision on Monday night when it announced a points system will be introduced across all of its competitions in 2016.
AFL NSW-ACT had originally planned to implement the new system at the same time as Victoria, to avoid an influx of players across the border.
AFL Riverina chairman Michael Irons believes this region need more time before implementing a full scale points system or salary cap.
“At this stage we’re no closer,” Irons said.
“We’re obviously taking guidance from AFL NSW-ACT on it and we obviously have to work in with the Victorian model but at this stage we’ve still got some way to go in how we implement it and with consultation with our clubs.”
AFL Victoria will roll out a statewide player points system in 2016, with a salary cap to be introduced to “most competitions” the year after.
It is part of the Community Club Sustainability Program to ensure the survival of clubs and stop the inflationary nature of player payments.
A poll conducted by The Daily Advertiser last month showed about 70 per cent of readers believe a points system or salary cap is a necessary measure.
Irons said AFL Riverina’s number one priority will be working with clubs about the system before it is implemented.
“At this stage, yes it’s unlikely (for 2016),” he said.
“We need to make as much time as necessary to consult with clubs and make sure they understand the model and how it operates.”
Under Victoria’s model, leagues will be able decide their own points limit.
