The Brisbane Lions have strengthened their position heading into the 2023 AFL Draft by completing two trades on Monday.

Kiara Hillier will join the Sydney Swans in exchange for pick 73, Premiership Lion Mikayla Pauga and pick 73 has been traded to the Greater Western Sydney GIANTS for pick 24.

Pauga, who played in the Lions 2023 Premiership winning side against North Melbourne, departs the Den after three seasons and 15 games.

Hillier was drafted in 2022 and was member of the Brisbane Lions Academy but was unable to break into the Lions strong defensive unit.

Lions Head of Women’s Football, Breeanna Brock said she was pleased to see the duo get opportunities at other clubs to continue pursuing their footballing journey.

“We would like to thank Mikki and Kiara for their contributions to the Club,” Brock said.

“Mikki will always have a special place at the Lions as a Premiership player and we wish her all the best at the GIANTS.

“Kiara gave her all, but with our defence performing exceptionally well this year and with Kate Lutkins returning from pregnancy and Jade Pregelj from injury, opportunities to play are hard to get, especially for a young developing talent.

“We’ve been working with managers and clubs to make sure our players continue to play AFLW and it’s great they’ve been to find new clubs.”