Why does the AFL charge for access to the online video? It should be free.
Unfortunately, since the AFL has contracted out the operation of it’s web site to Telstra and Telstra paid three cows, two chickens, and many millions of dollars for the rights, the money has to be made back somehow. Further, Telstra has guaranteed the AFL and all the clubs (except Essendon which opted out) so much per year in revenue (reportedly about A$500,000 per club per season) so that means advertising and subscriptions. Thus the charge for overseas fans. There is the legitimate need to pay for the server cost which is substantial, particularly to feed the video. AFANA does appreciate this is a problem for some fans. We’d also note that the if they made it free, then foreign TV networks such as Setanta might want it for free, too. For now there is an alternative, you can get Setanta’s coverage via GekTV, NexTV, or ConnecTV at $14.99 per month. Follow the links on our TV info page.
