AFL And NITV Launch First Nations-Led Programme

The AFL has unveiled Inside the Huddle, a new weekly First Nations-led programme for the 2026 Toyota AFL Premiership Season, delivered in partnership with National Indigenous Television (NITV). The series debuts on Wednesday 11 March at 10pm.

Created in line with the AFL's new First Nations Strategy, the show provides a dedicated space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to share stories, connections and perspectives from across the game.

Blending sharp footy analysis with laid-back conversation, Inside the Huddle will examine the latest league news through a culturally informed lens and honour the rich history and ongoing contributions of First Nations players, past and present.

The programme is fronted by three-time premiership player and Gunditjmara and Wiradjuri man Chris Johnson, alongside Warumungu and Yawuru presenter Megan Waters.

Each week they will be joined by rotating co-hosts, with appearances from stars including Yorta Yorta man Jarman Impey, Kaurna Ngarrindjeri man Chad Wingard, Noongar woman Courtney Ugle and Wiradjuri man Zac Williams, among others. Together, they will preview the upcoming round and sit down with high-profile guests to discuss personal journeys, cultural connections and career highlights.

Shining a light on First Nations players, emerging talent and the broader community impact of the game across Australia, the programme aims to elevate First Nations voices and support pathways for the next generation within the AFL industry.

AFL General Manager First Nations Engagement and Inclusion Taryn Lee said: "Guided by the AFL’s First Nations Strategy, it’s incredibly important that we have a dedicated First Nations show and strong First Nations voices across our platforms.

"Inside the Huddle creates a space to tell First Nations stories, by First Nations people, for First Nations communities, while also sharing the richness of those stories with the broader football community.

"First Nations people have shaped the game of Australian Rules Football in so many ways, and we are so pleased to continue our partnership with NITV to provide a platform that celebrates First Nations legacy and highlights emerging voices."

NITV Head of Indigenous Commissioning and Production, and Warlpiri, Warumungu and Arrernte woman Dena Curtis said: "Through this partnership with the AFL, Inside the Huddle gives First Nations voices a platform to lead the conversation around the game and the communities that have shaped it.

"At NITV, we're proud to bring a uniquely First Nations perspective – celebrating the strength, pride and legacy of our players, and supporting the next generation of emerging talent and new voices both on screen and behind the camera.

"With hosts Megan Waters and Chris Johnson bringing insight and energy and Tony Briggs leading as Executive Producer, the show is about more than football – it's about culture, community and the stories at the heart of the game."

The series is executive produced by Yorta Yorta and Wurundjeri man Tony Briggs of Typecast Entertainment, who will guide the programme's direction and embed cultural authenticity throughout production. Best known for creating the hit film The Sapphires, Briggs has more than 30 years' industry experience and previously served as executive producer on Yokayi Footy across AFL and NITV platforms.