17/08/2026
Inner West Magpies Clubs Statement
Over the past week, AFL Sydney announced a new competition structure for 2027, known as the Elevated League. The competition will comprise four divisions: Men's Premier Division, Women's Premier Division, Women's Under 20's and Men's Under 19.5s. Clubs were invited to apply for licenses earlier this year.
It is with great disappointment that we announce that the Inner West Magpies were not granted a licence to participate in the SFL. The primary reason provided was the absence of Women’s Premier Division and Women’s Under 20s teams within our current program.
Following the decision, we engaged with AFL Sydney and expressed our view that the proposed 2027 commencement date does not provide sufficient time for clubs such as ours to rebuild and strengthen women’s football programs. We suggested that a 2028 implementation would allow clubs a more realistic opportunity to develop sustainable and competitive pathways. We noted that this challenge extends beyond our club, with several current teams across these competitions facing participation and competitiveness issues.
The Inner West Magpies, formerly Western Suburbs AFC & Western Wolves Women’s AFC have been an integral part of Sydney football for more than 80 years. For over half a century, the Football Club and Licensed Club have worked hand in hand to support the growth of the game, investing not only in Western Suburbs football, but also in AFL clubs throughout New South Wales, AFL football administration across Sydney and NSW, and the broader development of Australian Football and the league itself.
The Inner West Magpies remain a strong community club that provides pathways for young people, builds lifelong friendships and creates a genuine sense of belonging. We are proud of the role we play in developing players, supporting families and strengthening our local community.
While we are disappointed by this outcome, the Magpies will continue to field teams, compete proudly and write the next chapter in our long and successful history. We will continue to strengthen our football programs, provide opportunities for players of all ages and work towards building a sustainable future for the club.
We would like to sincerely thank our sponsors, supporters, volunteers, players, families and members for their unwavering commitment to the club. Your passion and support have been the foundation of our success and will continue to drive us forward.
The Inner West Magpies will watch the SFL with great interest as the clubs compete under the new competition structure, while continuing to strengthen our own program and work towards earning re-admission in the future.
The Inner West Magpies have faced challenges before and have always emerged stronger. Our history, community and commitment to the game remain unchanged. We look forward to continuing our proud tradition, providing opportunities for players of all ages and ensuring that the black and white jumper continues to be represented with passion and pride across Sydney football for many years to come.
