The Brisbane Lions acknowledge and accept the Free Agency model agreement reached between the AFL and the AFLPA which commences in 2012.

The Club's view has always been that Free Agency reduces the rights currently enjoyed by the Club, however we do accept this new Agreement is a necessary outcome to maintain the strength and vibrancy of Australia's leading sports competition.

The Lions understand the Free Agency negotiations were obviously difficult but very important for the future evolution of the code.

"The AFL system we belong to is the premier sporting league in this country and this Free Agency Agreement is part of maintaining that industry leadership and stability that we require for rights evaluations with media broadcasters and other key assets," Lions Chairman Tony Kelly said.

"Having a strong but balanced Collective Bargaining Agreement is obviously critical to the ongoing success of our AFL system."

"These negotiations also reinforce the importance of having an independent AFL Commission approve the final Agreement."

"While various clubs will have a variety of opinions, the AFL Commission is in the best impartial position to make the best decision for the overall good of our code."

"So all these factors combined with the AFL Commission's approval, lead us to accept this Free Agency Agreement as part of upholding the best sporting competition in Australia - especially in Queensland where the football codes remain engaged in a fierce battle for market share and the hearts and minds of the fans."

Click here for more information on the AFL Free Agency Agreement.