The 2023 AFL Trade Period is set to start in early October, with an official start date yet to be confirmed by the AFL.
During trade week, clubs will have the opportunity to trade players and draft picks to strengthen their draft hand or improve their list heading into the next season.
The free agency window will also open prior to the start of the Trade Period, allowing clubs to sign uncontracted players without the need for a trade.
Once trade week is over, clubs will still have the opportunity to swap draft picks before the 2023 AFL National Draft.
When is the AFL Trade Period?
No official date has been given for this year's AFL Trade Period, however, the busy period has historically been held on the first week of October.
The 2022 Trade Period began on October 3, which followed previous years Monday morning start. The 2023 Trade Period is therefore likely to start on Monday, October 2 at 9:00 a.m (AEST)
Player movement from the free agency window started three days prior to last year’s trade week, and will potentially fall on September 29 this year.
When does the AFL Trade Period end?
The AFL Trade Period lasts ten days, with the majority of the action coming on an exciting last day.
Should trade period begin on October 2, the final deals will have to be made before an October 11 deadline.
Last year’s event closed at 7:30 p.m. (AEST), leaving time for several anxious last-minute trade deals.
How does AFL trade work?
Clubs are able to exchange players, draft picks, or a combination of both during the AFL Trade Period when all parties (including the AFL) sign off on the deal. Trades may include multiple clubs.
If a proposed trade involves a contracted player, they must first give permission to be traded to a new destination before a deal is confirmed.
Clubs will also be permitted to trade 2024 draft picks which can be used for future draft selections.
How to listen to AFL Trade Radio
Prior to and during trade week, the AFL Trade Radio is available on afl.com.au and the AFL Live app. Fans will be able to listen to or live stream the shows through either platform.
AFL Trade Radio goes on air just after the AFL Grand Final and provides updates on trade rumours and official deals as trade week commences.
The show also features interviews with important AFL figures, including club list managers and general managers.