AFL Drought Support Match raises much needed funds for SA farmers

In the wake of last month’s AFL Drought Support Match, more than $100,000 has been raised for the Rural Business Support Relief Fund, which will go directly toward assisting drought-impacted farmers across South Australia.

More than 3,000 farmers and their families were among the stands at Adelaide Oval on the afternoon of July 20 to watch the Adelaide Crows take on the Gold Coast Suns as part of the initiative.

Originally initiated by Grain Producers South Australia, supported by the SA Government and delivered in partnership with the Adelaide Football Club, GPSA, Primary Producers SA, Livestock SA and the SA Dairyfarmers’ Association, last month’s match was more than just a game — it was a statement of solidarity with South Australia's farming communities doing it tough after two consecutive years of a challenging statewide drought.

Thanks to an extraordinary collective effort, $115,000 has now been raised for the Rural Business Support Relief Fund, which will go directly toward assisting drought-impacted farmers across the state.

Grain Producers SA (GPSA) Chair John Gladigau thanked the State Government, Adelaide Crows and Foodland for their contributions during the Drought Support Match and for bringing GPSA’s vision to life.

“More than 3,000 farmers impacted by drought in grain, livestock and dairy were given free tickets to attend the Drought Support Match with their family and friends,” he said.

“Not only did we increase awareness about the drought to metropolitan audiences, $115,000 was raised during the match for Rural Business Support’s Relief Fund to assist impacted farmers.

“It’s not just about the financial support — this was an opportunity for families to take a breather from the demands of the farm and help others understand the reality of what they’re facing.”

Mr Gladigau praised the Adelaide Football Club for hosting regional families with such genuine care and generosity.

“The Crows players and staff, and everyone at the footy club, went above and beyond to make the day special and their passion for regional South Australia and helping farmers in drought is clear.”

GPSA was proud to lead the initiative, working alongside Primary Producers SA, Livestock SA, and the SA Dairyfarmers’ Association, who united in standing up for South Australian agriculture.

Mr Gladigau also paid tribute to Premier Peter Malinauskas and Minister for Primary Industries Clare Scriven for backing the initiative and bringing GPSA’s concept to fruition.

“While the match may be over, our advocacy continues. We’ll keep pushing for practical, immediate support for farming families — including finance access, concessional loans and on-farm relief measures,” Mr Gladigau said.