Stadiums start making plans for fans to watch AFL games live

THOUSANDS of footy fans may be able to watch the AFL Grand Final live under plans devised by stadium operators.

Those plans involve using careful seat allocation, temperature screening on arrival and staggered entry and exit times.

The AFL will release its revised 2020 fixture today, with the restart to feature Collingwood v Richmond on Thursday, June 11, and Geelong v Hawthorn at GMHBA Stadium on Friday, June 12.

AFL venues are working on seating plans that could allow fans to watch late-season games live. It is hoped crowd numbers could be gradually ramped up from 5000 to 15,000, and as many as 30,000 for the Grand Final on October 24.

The MCG would be best placed to welcome fans at games due to the considerable space in and around the home of football.

While the AFL remains cautious about allowing crowds, venues including the

MCG and Marvel Stadium, want to have strategies in case authorities give the green light for fans to return for the second half of the season.

Fans could be separated using empty seats and rows in between and have guidelines on which amenities to use.

As part of the entry requirements, they could be advised specifically on what time they should arrive and find their seats, as well as depart the stadium to avoid overcrowding as patrons move through the gates.

Venue staff who work on game days may be subject to stringent twice-weekly testing to help protect against outbreaks and ensure patron safety.

Any move to allow fans at games would also need public transport plans.

The State Government announced yesterday that up to 50 people would be allowed to gather at stadiums from June 22.

AFL clubs immediately realised the potential allowing even a few dozen members at games could have as they attempt to retain members.